One in five women experience a UTI, or urinary tract infection, during her lifetime, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Men also get UTIs, although it occurs less often in them than women. UTIs can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications. While certain herbs may help relieve a UTI, consult a physician for a proper diagnosis and to assure that herbs are appropriate for your personal situation.
About UTIs
Your kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra comprise your urinary tract. Your kidneys remove waste products from your blood, and then these substances pass through your ureters into your bladder, where the urine is stored before exiting the body through your urethra. Infection arises when microorganisms -- usually bacteria -- enter your urinary tract and multiply. This can cause the following types of symptoms: a frequent urge to urinate, pain or burning during urination, blood in your urine and possibly fever or nausea.
Herbal Treatment
Certain herbal remedies may relieve urinary tract infections by combating the bacteria, decreasing irritation and healing urinary tract tissues. Some herbs also help prevent future occurrences. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, professional herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," suggests echinacea, uva ursi, buchu, usnea and cornsilk to relieve an active infection. Herbal remedies for prevention of UTIs include uva ursi, marshmallow, couch grass, nettle, plantain and dandelion.
Featured Herb
Uva ursi, also known by the Latin name Arctostaphylos uva ursi, is commonly recommended by herbalists to address various ailments of the urinary tract. Dr. Tilgner reports that uva ursi counters bacteria and enhances kidney function. It also functions as a diuretic, which is a substance that stimulates urination. Constant flow of fluids through the urinary tract helps diminish and prevent infection. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that uva ursi contains the substances arbutin, hydroquinone and tannins, which fight infection. Uva ursi may be taken alone or in combination with other herbs in the form of a tea, tincture or capsule.
Cautions
Urinary tract infections that are not properly treated can lead to consequences such as kidney damage and if it occurs during pregnancy, birth complications may develop. It's important to understand the extent of an infection and its underlying causes to ensure proper treatment and future prevention. A healthcare professional can assist you with this. Also note that herbs can have strong effects on the body and may interact with certain medications. Before taking herbs for a UTI, discuss it with your doctor.
References
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Urinary Tract Infections in Adults
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Uva Ursi
