According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, urinary tract infections are a serious health issue and account for 8.3 million doctor visits every year. Although women are most susceptible to urinary tract infections, men can also suffer from potentially serious infections. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most urinary tract infections are caused by the bacteria, Escherichia coli. Urinary tract infections are treated with antibacterial drugs, notes the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Some herbal remedies may help to reduce symptoms and aid recovery, though their efficacy is largely unproved.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a medicinal plant that has been used by Native Americans for hundreds of years. Herbalists believe that it may help the body fight infection. According to an article published in 2003 in the journal, "American Family Physician," echinacea has immunostimulating properties, rendering it a popular remedy for the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections. Lead author Benjamin Kligler notes, however, that evidence to support the use of echinacea as a treatment for urinary tract infections is purely anecdotal. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that echinacea may reduce the effectiveness of some medicines. It says it should not be used by patients suffering from disorders including tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a herb found the northern United States and is popular among Native American tribes as a treatment for health problems, including skin and digestive disorders. Goldenseal contains a substance called berberine, which has antibacterial properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it may also strengthen the immune system by activating white blood cells. The physician monitored website Healthcommunities.com notes that some naturopaths may recommend goldenseal to treat a urinary tract infection. The website suggests consuming goldenseal as a tea from 1 tsp of dried herb per cup of hot water; however, some patients may prefer to take goldenseal in capsule form or as a tincture. Goldenseal may cause side effects and should only be used under the direction of a medical professional.
Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi is a herb sometimes used to treat urinary tract infections, including cystitis. In fact, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes that uva ursi was the mainstay treatment for urinary tact infections until the discovery of antibiotics. The herb's antibacterial properties are conferred by several chemicals, including arbutin and hydroquinone. Healthcommunities.com suggests taking uva usri as as a tea made from 2 tsp of the herb per cup of hot water; or as a tincture. Uva Ursi may have highly toxic effects, therefore it should be only be used under the direction of a medical practitioner.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Urinary Tract Infections in Adults
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Supplements for Urinary Tract Infection in Women
- "American Family Physician;" Echinacea; Benjamin Kligler; January 2003
- Healthcommunities.com: Urinary Tract Infection - Altenative Treatment
