Herbs for urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused by bacteria and especially from Escherichia Coli – E.Coli enterobacter. Under normal circumstances pathogen microorganisms that enter the urinary tract are pulled away through the urine flow, without causing any problems. When the immune system is weakened the pathogens enter the urinary tract through the urethra causing inflammation. These inflammations can be located in the bladder (cystitis), at the urethra (urethritis) or at the kidneys (pyelonephritis).

   Urinary tract infection is more frequent in women compared to men, due to anatomical reasons. Also patients, and especially women with diabetes mellitus are more prone. 20% of women with have an UTI in their life. Delayed bladder emtying and low water consumption are also reasons for UTIs

Urinary tract infections and pregnancy 

UTIs are very frequent in pregant women due to anatomical changes and pressure by the fetus.

Urinary tract infections symptoms 

Burn and very frequent but unfinished urination are frequent UTIs symptoms.

Urinary tract infections diagnosis 

The diagnosis is made from the doctor through laboratory tests. The urologist is in charge for giving the right therapeutic guidance and drug therapy – usually antibiotics.

Urinary tract infections treatment with herbs 

Many herbal extracts and natural supplements can help UTI prevention and treatment.

Cranberries 

Are rich in antiseptic and antioxidant proantocyanidines (PACs) that delay pathogens development in the kidney. The suggested dosage is 300-500 mg of cranberries extract that provide 45 mg of PACs, 1-3 times daily for treatment..

Diuretic and antiseptic herbs 

Uva ursi, corn stigmas, solidago, betula, nettle, parsley, asparagus, cherry stalks andorthosiphon, increase urination naturally, pulling away bacteria through the urine. Also they provide mild antiseptic action.

Antimicrobial herbs 

Grapefruit seed extract, goldenseal and echinacea boost the immune system against pathogens in the urethra and the bladder.

Other natural supplements for urinary tract infections 

Mannose and n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) are two natural substances that reduce adherence of pathogens in the bladder. Suggested dosage for mannose is 2-4 grams daily.

Proper intestinal microflora is essential for fighting pathones that affect the urinary tract. Antibiotics also affect intestinal microflora. Probiotics and especially Lactobacilus acidophilus, plantarum, rhamnosus and casei species balance the gut and boost the immune system.

Vitamin C and zinc are also natural immune system boosters that can help UTIs treatment.

Recommendations for UTIs 

1. Drink plenty of water for increased urination
2. Don’t postpone urination
3. Intimate wash with chamomile and proper hygiene
4. Nutritional supplements with cranberries, mannose, NAC, diuretic-antiseptic herbs. Suggested products:

Health Aid Cran ProBio 30 caps
Holistic Med Bacteflora Fem 30 caps
Lanes CystiAde 30 tabs
Specchiasol Cranberry Nocist Intensive 7 sachets
Viogenesis Mannose Complex 90 caps

5. Seek for doctor’s advice diagnosis and do no take drugs and especially antiobiotics without prescription.
7. Seek for doctor’s advice for persistent symptoms that get worsen.