A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is characterized by strong, sudden urges to urinate followed by a slow, painful release of urine. The infections are usually bacterial in origin and are frequently accompanied by low back and abdominal pain. According to "Professional Guide to Diseases," women are much more likely to suffer a UTI, with about 50 percent experiencing it at least once in their lifetime. Herbal remedies, including fenugreek, can mitigate symptoms of a UTI.
Causes of UTI
Urinary tract infections occur when the bladder or the urethra gets infected with bacteria, which eventually inflame the urethra. As a result, urine flow becomes restricted. The most common bacterial species to cause a UTI is E. coli, which is found in feces and is also commonly found on skin around the rectum. Consequently, anal sex and poor hygiene are common causes of UTI. Women are more prone to developing UTI because their anus is physically closer to the opening of their urethra. Bacteria from the vagina can also enter the urethra and cause infection, which can occur from vaginal sex, child birth and douching.
Symptoms of UTI
Increase in frequency of urination combined with strong urges to urinate are the hallmarks of UTI. Burning pain in the urethra during urination is common, too. Pain may also be felt in the low back, flank and lower abdomen. If the bacteria are able to damage the walls of the bladder or urethra, then red blood can be seen in the urine. At the very least, the presence white blood cells, which indicates an infection, will be detected by laboratory analysis of urine. Finally, as with many infections, fever and nausea may also occur.
Fenugreek Description
Fenugreek is a medicinal herb used for centuries in Asia and European countries, including Greece. The flowers of the fenugreek plant develop into long brown pods that protect the seeds. Fenugreek seeds are the most commonly used part of the plant for a variety of remedies, which usually focus on treating gastrointestinal, respiratory, lactating and libido problems. Fenugreek can and has been used for kidney, bladder and urethral infections, although it is not usually a common herbal choice for such conditions. For example, cranberry preparations are more commonly used for a UTI.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Fenugreek seeds are rich in mucilagins, which are known for being able to sooth and relax inflamed tissues. Mucilagins stimulate the production of mucus, which can help protect the urethra and trap the bacteria. Consequently, fenugreek can be used to reduce inflammation and fight infections, although it is probably more effective for respiratory infections than a UTI.
References
- "Professional Guide to Diseases: Ninth Edition"; Springhouse Publishing; 2009
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Metabolism"; Carolyn D. Berdanier; 2009
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