Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder that can involve pain, burning and fever. Infectious cystitis is usually caused by E. coli bacteria, while noninfectious cystitis can be caused by certain drugs, radiation and chemicals used in hygiene products, or it can be a by-product of other diseases, such as lupus and diabetes. According to herbalist David Hoffmann in his book, "Medical Herbalism: the Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," herbs that contain volatile oils and increase urination are the best choice for treating cystitis, since they fight infection and flush toxins out of the urinary system.
Bearberry
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is an antimicrobial specifically used for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis. It soothes the irritated tissues of the bladder and tones and strengthens the bladder walls. Bearberry contains arbutin, which is a powerful antibacterial for urinary tract infections. According to a research report in the 2004 issue of "Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica," a preparation containing arbutin from bearberry was effective against E. coli and other bacteria. Drink bearberry tea if you are prone to cystitis flareups.
Buchu
Buchu (Agathosma betulina) contains potent volatile oils, such as diosphenol, limonene and pulegone, that act on the urinary system. According to Botanical.com, the diosphenol contained in the volatile oil of buchu leaf is considered to be the most important ingredient in buchu. Diosphenol is a chemical with antibacterial, antiseptic and diuretic properties. Buchu tea can be brewed in combination with dried marshmallow leaf if you are experiencing a lot of burning. Consult your doctor if you have a history of kidney disease before taking buchu.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow leaf (Althaea officinalis) contains mucilage, which can soothe the inflamed lining of the bladder. It is also a diuretic and rich in anti-inflammatories, such as scopoletin and salicylic acid. Get relief from the burning and irritation with marshmallow tea.
Valerian
Stress can lower your resistance to infection and lead to chronic disorders and recurring bouts of cystitis. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) relaxes muscles and relieves tension. It has a mild pain-relief action and can be used long-term. Relieve stress with a cup of valerian tea.
Cranberry
Cranberry juice (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a traditional treatment for urinary tract infections. According to Hoffmann, cranberry juice works because the flavonoids in the berries prevent bacteria, such as E. coli, from attaching to the bladder walls. The juice has a bitter taste, and you might be tempted to sweeten it with sugar, but don't. Sugar may actually worsen your cystitis infection. Cranberry may lower your platelets, so consult with your doctor before taking this treatment.
Wild Carrot
Wild carrot (Daucus carota), also known as Queen Anne's Lace, contains antimicrobial volatile oils and is a diuretic, which helps the bladder eliminate pathogens from the urinary tract. Relieve the inflammation and treat the bacterial infection with a tea brewed from wild carrot. Wild carrot can cause uterine contractions, so do not use it if you are pregnant.
References
- "Medical Herbalism: the Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine;" David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica;" Examination of Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Non-Antibiotic Drugs; H. Kruszewska, T. Zareba, S. Tyski ; December 2004
- Botanical.com: Buchu
