Herbal Medicine For Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection, is caused by a bacterium known as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These bacteria thrive in warm, moist areas of your body, especially your reproductive tract, anus, mouth and throat. Gonorrhea is a common health problem, affecting about 700,000 Americans every year. Herbal medicines may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your gonorrhea, although it is always wise to speak with your doctor before ingesting herbs.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is most commonly seen in people living in large cities, inner-city regions and in populations in which education levels and socioeconomic status are low, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Risk factors for the development of this condition include having multiple sexual partners, failing to use a condom during sexual intercourse and having a drug addiction. Symptoms of this condition usually manifest in two to five days and include burning pain while urinating, discharge from your penis or vagina and sore throat.

Appropriate Herbal Medicines

Several herbs have historically been used in treating gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections, although rigorous scientific research regarding the efficacy of these herbs may be lacking. According to nutrition researcher Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certain herbs may help alleviate gonorrhea-related symptoms, including suma, pau d'arco, goldenseal and echinacea. Hops are used in treating pain and stress, while red clover possesses both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

A Helpful Remedy

Suma, sometimes called Brazilian ginseng, is the root of a South American vine that has long been used as a medicine and tonic. Suma, notes Balch, may enhance your immune system and prevent stress. Suma may be a helpful adjunct therapy for many conditions, including gonorrhea, hypertension, arthritis, low functioning immune system and menopause-related symptoms. Suma may help reduce your inflammation, keep your hormone levels in check and impair the growth of cancer cells in some individuals, although more research may be required to understand this herb's health actions.

Considerations

Gonorrhea is a serious health problem that requires intervention from a skilled health care practitioner. If left untreated, this condition could lead to health complications in both women and men, including meningitis, heart valve infection and chronic joint pain. Before using suma and other herbal medicines as an adjunct therapy, discuss the immediate and long-term health ramifications of herbal remedies. Some herbs should not be used by certain individuals. Meet with your doctor to discuss all herb-related topics prior to using herbal medicines.