Bladder infections, also called urinary tract infections, begin in the urinary tract and move into the kidneys if left untreated. According to the Mayo Clinic, most urinary tract infections affect the urethra and bladder and happen more frequently in women than men. Causes of bladder infections include microscopic bacteria entering the urethra and E. coli entering the bladder. A bladder infection causes pain and an urgent feeling to urinate.
Ayurvedic herbs and formulas taken at the first signs of a bladder infection help to treat by eliminating urinary tract bacteria from the body. Ayurvedic medicine, used for over 5,000 years, uses the entire body to determine the ailment and what herbal remedies should be used. Since Ayurvedic medicine is based on individual doshas, or temperaments such as vata, pitta, or kapha, dosages for the following herbal remedies should be obtained by a certified Ayurvedic medicine practitioner.
Coriander
Coriander, a spice frequently used in Indian dishes, are the seeds from the cilantro or Chinese parsley plant. Coriander is considered a specific herb in the remedy of urinary tract infections. The spice of coriander is bitter and acts as a warming herb and diuretic. Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, author of "The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs," writes that coriander use in bladder infection treatment will come in the form of an infusion, and its properties allow the bladder and the urinary tract to be strengthened.
Spearmint
Spearmint's soothing properties work as a stomach cure and also for urinary tract infections. Spearmint is another diuretic like coriander, and as it increases the frequency of urination, it helps to reduce inflammation in the urinary tract. Reducing the inflammation also helps to reduce the pain associated with bladder infections. Spearmint tea is the best way to take this remedy, and it should be consumed while hot.
Straits Rhododendron
Straits rhododendron, also known as melastoma malabathricum, is a flowering bush, and is classified within the peony family. The straits rhododendron is found in Southeast Asia, India, and even in parts of Australia. The straits rhododendron flowers bloom and die in one day. Its use as an herbal remedy is traditionally for poisoning, bleeding and urinary infections. The seeds of the straits rhododendron are tasteless and can be eaten. The pulp inside turns the tongue black. The leaves can be cooked and do not have much of a flavor when added to dishes.
References
- The Complete Guide to Ayurveda: The Ancient Indian Healing Tradition; Gopi Warrier & Deepakida Gunawant, M.D.; 1997
- The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs; Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa & Michael Tierra; 2008
- The Mayo Clinic Urinary Tract Infection
- Ayurveda: Asian Secrets of Wellness; Kim Inglis; 2009
