How to Use Natural Remedies to Treat Bladder Infections

Bladder infections are accompanied by symptoms of pain above the pubic bone and in the lower back, frequent urges to urinate, and painful or burning urination. Natural remedies can help combat the infection and its painful symptoms. However, you will need to see a doctor for an antibiotic treatment to prevent the infection from spreading or becoming worse.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Unsweetened cranberry juice Uva ursi (capsule form) Oregon graperoot tincture Dried marshmallow root Dried corn silk

1. Drink 1-1/4 cups unsweetened cranberry juice per day to prevent bacteria from adhering to the urethra and bladder. By preventing the bacteria from sticking, you enable it to be washed out by the urine. Cranberry juice will speed the healing time of bladder infections.

2. Take three 400 to 500mg capsules of uva ursi three times per day to increase urination and prevent infections. Uva ursi is also a powerful anti-inflammatory, and will prevent further irritation of the urinary tract and bladder.

3. Take 1 tsp. of Oregon graperoot tincture three times per day to kill the bacteria that cause bladder infections. Oregon graperoot will also prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder lining, thus helping to flush it out during urination.

4. Steep 1 to 2 tsp. of dried marshmallow root in 1 cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired. Drink 1 cup of the tea divided into three doses throughout the day. Coat the urinary tract with marshmallow root to prevent further inflammation and ease the pain that accompanies bladder infections.

5. Steep 1 tsp. dried cornsilk in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired. Drink 2 to 3 cups of cornsilk tea per day while suffering from bladder infections to soothe the urinary tract.

Tips & Warnings

• While you are experiencing a bladder infection, drink plenty of fluids. At least eight glasses per day will help flush harmful bacteria out of the urinary tract and bladder. Urinate often, at least three times per day, to help remove bacteria. Any of the above herbs may be taken in capsule or tincture form if it is more readily available. Refer to the manufacturer's directions for dosage information.

• If you suspect you have a bladder infection, consult a qualified medical professional immediately. If left untreated, infections may spread to the kidneys and cause severe or permanent damage. Do not substitute cranberries for antibiotics if you have bladder infections. However, if you suffer from recurring bladder infections, unsweetened cranberry juice is a powerful preventative. Do not drink more than 5 cups of cranberry juice in a 24-hour period, as it can acidify the urine. Do not take uva ursi for more than 7 days unless you are under medical supervision. Do not use while pregnant or if you suffer from kidney disorders or inflammation of the intestinal tract.