Bladder infections--also called urinary tract infections or UTIs, and medically known as cystitis--are painful and inconvenient. Women, men and children may experience UTIs, and they are most common for women. Symptoms may include pain with urination, blood in the urine, frequent and strong urge to urinate, and abdominal pressure. Natural remedies can effectively heal bladder infections, but it’s imperative to be diligent with treatment, otherwise complications may occur. Consult a naturopathic physician for guidance on appropriate and personalized natural treatment. If fever, chills, nausea, low back pain or worsening of symptoms occur, antibiotics become necessary.
Botanical Medicine
Cranberry is one of the most popular natural remedies for a bladder infection. According to Drs. Michael Murray and Peter Bongiorno, naturopathic physicians and contributors to the “Textbook of Natural Medicine,” cranberry diminishes the ability of E. coli--the most common pathogen in UTIs--to adhere to the lining of the bladder and urethra, which diminishes infection and prevents its recurrence. Blueberry may also be used, as it works similarly to cranberry. Cranberry and blueberry may be consumed as an unsweetened juice or in pill form. Other botanicals that disinfect the urinary tract or act as a diuretic include uva ursi, horsetail, garlic and goldenseal. These may be used in alone or in combination as tea, tincture or capsule.
Hydrotherapy
A sitz bath helps fight infection and improve function of lower abdominal and pelvic organs, such as the bladder. A traditional sitz bath involves immersing only the hips and lower abdomen in a small sitting tub, but a regular bathtub may also be used. For an acute UTI, sit in a tub filled with warm--not hot--water for 15 to 90 minutes.
Nutrient Supplementation
According to Murray and Bongiorno, D-mannose is a simple sugar that works similarly to cranberry. D-mannose is available as a powder, which can be mixed with water and taken three to four times daily. Research articles support the mechanistic function of D-mannose, but clinic trials are limited.
Diet
Dietary approaches aim to optimize immune function--to quickly fight a UTI and prevent future occurrence. For a healthy immune system, eat unprocessed foods and include onions, garlic and unsweetened yogurt. Avoid simple sugars and refined carbohydrates, which weaken immunity.
Prevention
Several practices may assist in fighting a bladder infection and preventing recurrence. Hydration is essential for optimal bladder function. Drink sufficient water and herbal tea and avoid coffee, soft drinks and alcohol. Other strategies for prevention include urinating after sexual intercourse and, after urination, wiping from front to back.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Cystitis
- “Textbook of Natural Medicine”; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. & Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- National College of Natural Medicine; Uninary Materia Medica; Jill E. Stansbury, N.D.
- “Lectures in Naturopathic Hydrotherapy”; Wade Boyle, N.D. & Andre Saine, N.D.; 1988
