An urgent and frequent impulse to urinate with little output, a burning sensation during urination, mild abdominal aching or cramping, strong smelling cloudy urine--these are signs of a urinary tract infection, or UTI. Women are more prone to this uncomfortable condition during pregnancy, and prostate inflammation might lead to infection in older men, but even children can get a UTI. Avoid the use of bubble bath, caffeine, alcohol, and wear only cotton underwear. Warm sitz baths can relieve pain. Most urinary tract infections involve the bladder and urethra and are due to contamination by Escherichia coli (E. coli), chlamydia, or group B streptococcus bacteria. Alternative remedies are most effective if started at the earliest sign of infection. If antibiotics are necessary, alternative medicines can help prevent recurring infection.
Juices
As soon as the first twinge of a UTI is felt, drink unsweetened pure cranberry juice. Avoid juice cocktail products. Healthfood stores are a good source of pure juice, or try fresh or frozen berries with water in a blender. Although it is sour, drinking at least one quart a day inhibits bacterial growth by acidifying the urine. Citrus juice, however, alkalizes the urine and should be avoided. Phyllis Balch, nutritionist and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," writes that the blue pigment of blueberries and purple grape juice contain anthocyanidin, a powerful antioxidant that can prove useful in fighting infection.
Herbs
When making herbal infusions, add fresh herbs to boiling water and brew for eight hours to concentrate the active ingredients. Herbal extracts are also acceptable. It is best to try one or two herbs at a time, with juice and supplements.
Marshmallow root increases the acidity of urine similar to the action of cranberry. Uva ursi, or bearberry, is a type of cranberry. According to Susun Weed, author of "Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year," uva ursi has been known to clear up antibiotic-resistant urinary tract infections and is particularly effective against E. coli. Drink a cup of infusion three to four times daily for 10 days, even if symptoms clear up sooner. Yarrow flowers can be added to uva ursi leaves for greater antibacterial effect. Other natural antiseptics for the urinary tract are garlic and parsley.
Diuretic herbs relieve the discomfort associated with urgency. Choose from celery, cucumber, cornsilk, dandelion and birch leaves. Buchu, shave grass, and juniper berries are also diuretic, but should not be used in pregnancy.
Nettles is a safe, nourishing herb for the urinary system. It is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals, including A, C, D, and K, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron and sulphur. The taste is earthy but mild. Weed recommends nettles to strengthen and protect the kidneys, particularly during pregnancy and urinary tract infections.
Supplements
In addition, Balch suggests these supplements: Vitamin C keeps bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract, up to 500mg per hour is recommended. Reduce dose if loose stools occur. Potassium may be lost when using diuretic herbs and should be replaced. Calcium and magnesium may soothe bladder irritability.
References
- "Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year;" Susun S. Weed; 1986
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" Phyllis Balch, CNC; 2004
- National Association for Continence: Recurrent urinary tract infections in women
