Chlamydia is an infection in the genital tract due to bacteria. According to MayoClinic.com, it is a sexually transmitted disease that may go unnoticed as the symptoms do not develop right away and in some cases, may never develop. Chlamydia is among one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the United States with an estimated 4 million infected with it each year, according to MayoClinic.com. Chlamydia is usually treated with antibiotics; however, herbs with antibacterial and immune boosting properties may help improve symptoms. Speak with your doctor before using herbs to treat chlamydia.
Symptoms
Chlamydia may not always show signs and symptoms; however, if they do develop, they will do so within one to three weeks of exposure, according to MayoClinic.com. Some common signs of this condition include abdominal pain in the lower region, women may experience vaginal discharge and men may experience penile discharge, painful urination and testicular pain in men. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health conditions.
Echinacea
Studies show that echinacea contains active substances that may enhance the immune system activity, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and have antiviral effects, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb is commonly recommended by many herbalists to treat an array of conditions. To enhance and stimulate your immune system, you may add 1 to 2 g of dried root or herb to boiling water to make an herbal tea or take 300 mg of standardized powdered extract. Echinacea may be taken up to three times per day for up to 10 days.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal contains berberine which has been shown to kill many types of bacteria in test tubes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, berberine may help boost and strengthen the immune system by increasing the effectiveness of white blood cells and their ability to fight off infection. For general immune system stimulation, 500 to 1,000 mg of goldenseal may be taken up to three times per day. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, for women suffering from vaginal irritation, an herbal douche may be made by adding the content of one goldenseal capsule with ¼ tsp of salt to 1 cup of warm water and allow the mixture to settle.
Prevention
Chlamydia can be prevented by using caution when participating in sexual activities. Limiting your number of sex partners and using condoms during sexual intercourse can greatly reduce your risk of developing chlamydia. In addition, getting screened regularly can help diagnose chlamydia before it leads to further health problems.
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