Bladder infections occur when harmful bacteria like E. coli travel up the urethra and multiply in the bladder. Symptoms include frequent, burning urination, lower back pain, fever and fatigue. While a number of herbal remedies exist for preventing bladder infection, the only proven cure for an active infection is treatment with prescription antibiotics.
Cranberries
Cranberries are among the most popular and effective herbal remedies for bladder infection. According to Science Daily, the healing properties in cranberries come from a molecule called non-dialyzable material (NDM). This substance prevents bacteria like E. coli from adhering to the bladder and urethra, making cranberries an effective preventive measure against bladder infection.
Despite these findings, cranberries appear to be ineffective in treating active bladder infections. According to a Feb. 1, 2008 article in Newsweek magazine, there is no evidence that cranberries are effective in treating an infection once it is established.
When purchasing cranberry juice, choose only 100 percent pure juice with no sugar added. The usual dosage of cranberries for preventing bladder infection is six 300 to 400 mg capsules in divided doses or 1.5 oz. of fresh cranberries daily.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, is a popular herbal remedy for bladder infection symptoms. It contains arbutin---a glycoside with antimicrobial properties. Because uva ursi is a mild diuretic, it can help flush out bacteria by increasing urine production. According to MotherNature.com, uva ursi is also useful for reducing inflammation and strengthening the lining of the urinary tract.
Uva ursi can be brewed into a tea by adding 2 tsp. of crushed herb to a cup of hot or boiling water. Due to its high tannin content, uva ursi should not be taken for longer than one week at a time.
Garlic
Garlic is among the most powerful antimicrobial herbs available. It contains a chemical called allicin, which is responsible for both the characteristic smell and the bulk of its healing properties. According to the National Institutes of Health, garlic is effective in killing several strains of E. coli, the same bacteria responsible for causing most bladder infections.
The recommended daily intake of garlic is 300 mg of powdered garlic or 2 cloves of the raw, whole herb. Due to its potent antibacterial effects, large doses of garlic taken daily can harm beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract. Taking probiotic supplements can help prevent or lessen this phenomenon in most instances.
Lifestyle Modifications
Despite the wide variety of herbal remedies for bladder infection, prevention is the best method of treatment. Adequate water intake is vital to urinary health. Active adults should drink eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily to prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine, sugary beverages and alcohol, all of which can irritate the urinary tract.
Hygiene is also vital to preventing bladder infections. Females should wipe from front to back and urinate immediately after sex to flush bacteria out of the urethra. Avoid using scented soaps and feminine hygiene products, which can cause irritation in the urethra.
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