Herbs are excellent for treating UTI. I’ve found that herbs almost always prevent a full-blown infection, especially if they are used as soon as the first symptoms of an infection are noticed. My first bladder infection caught me by surprise. I took antibiotics to fight the infection because I wasn’t aware of herbal alternatives, but since that time I’ve successfully prevented several bladder infections by using herbs and natural remedies and have been able to avoid taking antibiotics.
Most of the herbs used for UTI’s have diuretic properties, which means that they increase urine flow. This helps to flush the bladder of harmful microorganisms. Many of these herbs also have antimicrobial properties and help to directly combat the infection. The following herbs are powerful and safe treatment for UTI.
Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) sometimes called bearberry, has been used by cultures as diverse as the Native Americans and the Chinese for treating UTI. Uva ursi contains a natural compound called arbutin, which is transformed in the urinary tract into hydroquinone, a potent urinary antiseptic that is effective against the E. coli organism. Uva ursi also has diuretic action and helps to cleanse the urinary tract. The antibacterial component of uva ursi seems to be most effective in an alkaline environment, so it may be helpful while using the herb to avoid cranberry juice, citrus, tomatoes, and other foods that might acidify the urine. Uva ursi has an astringent but not unpleasant flavor. Make a tea by pouring one cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves. Steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink three cups a day. As an alternative, take one-half teaspoon of liquid extract or 2 capsules three times a day. Although uva ursi is safe when used in recommended amounts, don’t exceed the recommended dosage or use it for more than two weeks, because in high doses it can cause nausea and irritate the kidneys. Do not take uva ursi during pregnancy.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a potent antimicrobial that contains a natural antibiotic called berberine that is effective against many strains of harmful microorganisms, including E. coli. It also has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help to soothe inflamed mucous membranes. As with uva ursi, the natural antibiotic in goldenseal is most effective in an alkaline environment, so avoid acidifying foods while you are taking the herb. Pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of powdered herb. Steep 10 minutes, strain, and drink three cups a day. Goldenseal is extremely bitter and is easiest to take as a liquid extract or in capsules. Take one-half to one teaspoon of extract or 3-4 capsules three times a day. Because it is a uterine stimulant, goldenseal should not be used during pregnancy.
Juniper (Juniperus communis) berries contain an aromatic oil that has antimicrobial and diuretic properties. It steps up the fluid-filtering rate of the kidneys, which increases urine output. Juniper has a sweet, pungent, and astringent flavor. To make a tea, pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of crushed berries, cover, and steep for 20 minutes. Strain, and drink up to three cups a day. Overuse of juniper can irritate the kidneys, and the herb should not be used for more than four to six weeks at a time. If you have kidney disease or are pregnant, do not use juniper.
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a gentle diuretic that has mild immune enhancing properties. While it won’t fight infection like uva ursi or goldenseal, it makes a soothing tea that helps to cleanse the bladder. Marshmallow has a pleasant, sweet flavor. Simmer one teaspoon of chopped dried root in one cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and steep an additional ten minutes. Strain, and drink 3-4 cups throughout the day.
Other herbs that can be used to gently increase urine flow include nettle, dandelion leaf, and parsley. Make a tea from any of them by pouring one cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb (or 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herb). Steep for 10-15 minutes, strain, and drink 3-4 cups daily.
