A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria is introduced into the bladder through the urethra. This bacteria causes swelling, tenderness and blood in the urine. Most treatments require antibiotics to cure a UTI, although symptoms are still present for the first few days of treatment. Certain herbs that stimulate urine output and relieve discomfort can ease symptoms. Some herbal remedies even destroy the bacteria through acidity.
Step 1
Drink plenty of cranberry juice throughout the day. Cranberries contain certain acids that actually destroy the bacteria that causes urinary tract infections. Acidity in the urinary tract creates an environment that inhibits bacteria survival.
Step 2
Take one to two capsules of uva ursi per day. Uva ursi is a natural antibiotic that requires an alkaline environment to work. To optimize its effects, drink plenty of milk and fruit juices while eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. This will make your urine more alkaline.
Step 3
Drink a cup of goldenseal root tea. Add 1 tsp. of goldenseal root, found in health food stores, to 1 cup of hot water. Steep for 15 minutes and drink. Goldenseal root also comes in 1,000 mg tablets, to be taken once daily as an alternative to the tea.
Step 4
Make alternative herbal teas with marshmallow root, cleavers or horsetail. Steep 1 tsp. of your chosen herb in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes. Drink the tea hot to soothe abdominal tenderness and heal the tissues of the bladder wall.
