A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs anywhere along the urinary tract including the kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra. Symptoms can include frequent urination, painful or burning urination, pain in the pelvic area, cloudy or foul smelling urine, and fever. Common causative agents of UTIs are bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus, which normally populate other parts of the body such as skin, bowel or vagina. Consult your doctor before using some of these natural treatments for UTI because some herbs may be contraindicated during pregnancy and other conditions.
Cranberry
The first step is to prevent the foreign bacteria from colonizing in the urinary tract. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice is effective at preventing the bacteria from adhering to the bladder and urethra lining. According to the "Textbook of Natural Medicine," D-mannose is a simple sugar found in cranberry juice which helps to prevent the bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract wall. D-mannose can be found in capsule or powder form and can be used separately or with cranberry juice.
Fluids
Drink plenty of fluids, as this will help flush out the urinary tract. Avoid drinking any sweetened beverages because the sugars they contain provide a fuel source for the bacteria to continue to grow. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol as well because they can depress the immune system and irritate the bladder.
Natural Antimicrobials
According to the "Textbook of Natural Medicine," the following natural antimicrobials can help fight a current infection. Uva ursi is an herbal antimicrobial with an affinity for urinary passages. Goldenseal has a long history of use as an antibacterial herb. Vitamin A in high doses for a short period of time (three to five days) has an effect to enhance the immune system against infections. These antimicrobial herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy. High doses of vitamin A should not be used during pregnancy.
Herbal Remedies
According to "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," herbs that provide a soothing effect for the urinary tract tissue include horsetail, corn silk, marshmallow, plantain, nettle, dandelion, buchu and cleavers. Many of these herbs are rich in nutrients that provide support for soothing the urinary tract. These herbs can be found in tinctures or can be used as a tea in combination along with the antimicrobial herbs from above. You may find these herbs in combination as teas, powders, capsules or tinctures at your local natural health food store or organic market.
Proper Hygeine
Preventing future urinary tract infections begins with good habits. After defecating, wipe from front to back to prevent exposure of colonic bacteria into the urinary tract. Wash the genital area daily with water. Urinate after intercourse to minimize exposure of foreign bacteria within the urinary tract. Drink plenty of fluids daily to stay hydrated and to maintain normal filtration of the kidneys and urinary tract.
Heat
For pain in the pelvic area, a hot compress over the area can help relieve some discomfort. Alternating hot and cold sitz baths can help to relieve pain by bringing circulation to the area.
References
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, ND; 1999
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr. ND, Michael T. Murray ND; 2006
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- MD Consult: Urinary tract infection
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