Herbs and Fluids in the Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections
Stopping a urinary tract infection (UTI) from getting worse can be a simple matter of using herbs and fluids as home remedies. It must be emphasized, however, that these home remedies are best applied at the first signs of UTI like pain and burning during urination; when these methods do not work in stopping the infection from getting worse, then seeking medical attention is a must.
Drink Plenty of Water
This is a standard piece of advice for individuals with UTI and for good reasons, too – water aids in flushing out toxins from the body while also making urine less concentrated. Go beyond your usual six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water for best results.
With plenty of water comes frequent urination. Just go with the flow, so to speak, by urinating frequently and completely. Keep in mind that emptying your bladder each and every time when you have UTI is essential for your faster recovery.
While scientists are still divided on the benefits of cranberry juice in the faster treatment of UTI, you may still want to drink it. Think of it this way: You have everything to gain because cranberry juice is full of nutrients and nothing to lose when drinking it.
Studies have pointed out the effect of cranberry juice on the body. Cranberries have several compounds including proanthocyanidins that prevent E. coli bacteria from latching onto the walls of the urethra. The result: Bacteria are inhibited from building up and, hence, causing UTI.
Such is the efficacy of 100% cranberry juice that it is considered as superstar in terms of the treatment of non-aggressive bladder infections among doctors. This is because cranberry juice can shorten the length of time the infection remains in the body.
Goldenseal
This popular herb contains berberine, a compound that can prevent bacteria from accumulating on the walls of the urethra, too. This effect is similar to cranberry juice.
The herb can be purchased in tablet, capsule and liquid extract as well as tincture forms; just follow the recommended dosage. Better yet, consult your doctor before taking any herb supplements for bladder infections so as to minimize side effects and maximize benefits.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center researchers, the recommended dosage for adults is 500 to 1,000 milligrams of goldenseal tablets or capsules up to 3 times a day or 30 to 120 milligrams of liquid extract or 4 milliliters of tincture 3 times a day.
Echinacea
Also known as purple coneflower, echinacea has been used for centuries as an alternative treatment for bladder infections although it must be said that more studies must be performed to confirm their efficacy. As with goldenseal, it is best to talk with your doctor before using it so as to avoid side effects and complications.
The herb is supposed to improve the immune system so that it can more effectively fight off early UTIs. Its antioxidant and antibiotic properties also have a positive effect on the treatment of infections.
The bottom line: When treating UTI in its early stages, drinking plenty of water including cranberry juice will be good for your health. When your symptoms worsen or when you have frequent infections, then your best bet is to consult with your doctor. Please call 888-719-8448 or walk in to any of our location such as, our Los Angeles location near Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Inglewood, Hawthorne, Huntington Park, South Gate, Lynwood, Montebello, Monterey Park, Alhambra.
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