Herbs for Bladder Health

Infections of the bladder and urethra are common, especially for women. Sex, wiping the wrong way and certain medical procedures can transmit e-coli bacteria, chlamydia or group B streptococcus to the urinary tract. Pregnancy also makes women more prone to bacterial growth in urine because the growing fetus pushes on and changes the shape of the bladder. If left untreated, infection can spread to the kidneys. Antibiotics are used to treat cystitis, the medical term for bladder infection, but symptoms of burning, frequency and pain may return when antibiotics alone are used. There are herbs that change the pH of the urine and flush bacteria from the body. Taken with plenty of water, they can put an end to bladder problems once and for all.

Cranberry Juice

• The most well-known remedy for bladder infections is cranberry, but most commercial juices do not contain enough of the berry to produce hippuric acid, a substance which inhibits bacterial growth. One quart a day of pure, unsweetened cranberry juice, available at healthfood stores, is most effective. Pure unsweetened purple grape juice has similar properties. The sugar, colors and chemicals in commercial brands (that may contain less than 50 percent actual cranberry), feed bacteria and may irritate the bladder.

Parsley

• This herb, commonly used as a kitchen garnish, has potent antibacterial affects in the urinary tract. The best way to take it is as a 1/2 cup of juice twice a day. Use an electric or hand-crank juicer and mix parsley with tomato, celery, cucumber and bell pepper to improve the taste. If you don't have a juicer, purchase juice at a health-food bar or try to eat as much parsley as possible, perhaps in a large salad, or take parsley capsules.

Uva Ursi, Yarrow and Marshmallow

• Related to the cranberry, Uva Ursi's diuretic and antiseptic properties fight e-coli bacterium. Take 10 drops of tincture in a large glass of water three times daily for 10 days. Do not use longer than 10 days. If symptoms persist, add yarrow, an herb with anti-inflammatory properties that complement the actions of Uva Ursi. It can be taken in tincture form or as a strong tea (infusion). Sip one large glass twice a day. Marshmallow root, like cranberry, increases urine's acidity which slows bacterial growth. It also helps to strengthen and cleanse the bladder. Drink one quart of tea daily.

Other Diuretic Herbs

• Diuretics promote the release of water from body tissues and relieve the symptoms of urgency and burning that accompany a bladder infection. Infusions can be sipped until symptoms subside. Herbs used for this purpose are: goldenseal, cornsilk, pipsissewa and buchu.

Vitamin C and Other Suggestions

• Take 1,000 mg of vitamin C with bioflavonoids four or five times a day to keep bacteria from sticking to the sides of the ureter so it can be flushed out more easily. Drink at least 2 liters of herb teas, juice and water daily. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and artificial sweeteners that can irritate the bladder. Hot baths relieve pain. Avoid nylon underwear; choose cotton instead.

Warnings

• Do not use goldenseal during pregnancy, or if you have a history of heart disease, diabetes or glaucoma.
  Similar to wheatgrass juice, parsley may initially cause stomach upset when taken alone.