Urinary tract infections, commonly called UTIs, are more common in women and are often caused by bacteria. Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "Textbook of Natural Medicine," states that urinary tract infections usually cause burning pain upon urination, increased frequency of urination and dark urine. Herbal medication is used to treat both the symptoms and the underlying cause of this painful and annoying condition.
UTI Information
Pizzorno notes that your urine is sterile until it reaches your urethra, which is the tube that allows urine to move from your bladder to your urethral opening. Bacteria can affect the structures in your urinary tract by ascending from your urethra. Most bacteria enter your urethra from vaginal secretions or from exposure to fecal matter. Certain factors can increase your chances of developing a urinary tract infection, including anatomic or functional obstructions to urine flow.
A List of Herbal Medications
The list of herbal medications for urinary tract infections is lengthy, notes Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a doctor of naturopathic medicine and herbalist. Herbal medications commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections include cleavers, Oregon grape, osha, propolis, bearberry, saw palmetto, mullein, birch, cranberries, cedar, goldenseal, buchu and dandelion. Fresh blueberries are also effective natural agents for treating and preventing urinary tract infections, as they contain powerful antioxidants. Stinging nettle, yarrow and barley water may also be helpful.
Recommended Herb
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, uva ursi is a recommended herb for the treatment of urinary tract infections. The Center notes that uva ursi is most commonly used by contemporary herbalists and other practitioners to treat urinary tract infections and cystitis, or bladder inflammation. Uva ursi helps combat bacteria and is helpful for treating several conditions, including diabetes and disorders of the spleen and small intestine. Using this herb may cause a slight green discoloration to the urine.
Helpful Information
Herbal medication for urinary tract infections should be used along with other therapeutic strategies recommended by your primary care provider. Herbs can be taken in various ways, so it is important to speak with an herbal medicine expert to learn about optimal methods of use and indications that the herb or herbs you are taking are ineffective or causing unwanted health effects. Herbal medications for urinary tract infections may interact with your prescription drugs.
References
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. & Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Uva Ursi
