Bladder infections, also known as cystitis, occur when E. coli bacteria enters into the urinary tract and the bladder. This irritation of the bladder wall causes pain, stinging and sometimes the frequent urge to urinate, often without being able to. Women are more prone to bladder infections than men. Additionally, some women seem to be more frequently plagued by bladder infections than others. Several home remedies exist, but always check with your doctor about the safety and side effects of any self treatment.
Cranberry or Blueberry Juice
The famous cranberry juice cure for bladder and urinary tract infections really does work---if you're willing to drink enough of it, notes James A. Duke, author of "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Cranberries and blueberries, both members of the Vaccinium family of fruits, prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls, help kill the bacteria itself, and also aid urine production with their mild diuretic properties. You'll need at least 17 oz. of juice a day to see results, notes Duke. Look for either juice in supermarkets. Because they may be high in sugars, especially in the case of cranberries, eat less sugar and adjust your diet accordingly during your juice cure.
Bearberry Leaves
People have used the leaves of the bearberry shrub, or uva ursi, to treat bladder infections for centuries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Bearberry, related to cranberries and blueberries, share many of the same compounds---but with bearberries you'll want to use the leaves, not the fruits. In fact, the ancient Native American technique of curing bladder infections with bearberry leaves works because the small shrub's leaves contain the antibacterial compounds hydroquinone and arbutin, UMMC notes. Look for the powdered form of this herb in capsules at health food stores, or grow your own for teas. The ornamental plant thrives on hills and in shaded places, producing showy flowers and bright red berries. Harvest the leaves throughout the season, and air-dry or dehydrate them. UMMC suggests preparing home-brewed tea by soaking 3 g of leaves for every 5 oz. water overnight. Strain and drink cold, or heat. Do not take bearberry tea or capsules as a longterm, preventative measure, UMMC warns. Taking it more than five days in a row, or a five-day course more than five times a year, can lead to liver damage.
Baking Soda and Water
To ease the burning sensation caused by acidic urine, raise your internal pH level, suggests Prevention Magazine's "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies for Women." A glass of baking soda accomplishes that objective swiftly and inexpensively. Add ½ tsp baking soda to 8 oz. water and drink it down "at the first sign of symptoms," the book suggests. In fact, upping your consumption of plain water also helps, because it flushes the urethra of bacteria. Drink about eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day, with a goal of achieving clear urine.
