How to Use Home Remedies for a Bladder Infection

Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections, are caused by bacteria, often E. coli. Symptoms include burning and frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and sometimes pain in the abdomen. If the infection spreads into the kidneys, you may experience fever, chills, nausea, and diarrhea, accompanied by back pain. Fortunately, aside from prescription antibiotics, there are some home remedies you can try.

Things You'll Need

• Cranberry juice or supplement
• Uva ursi supplement
• Goldenseal supplement
• Tea tree oil soap
• Vitamin C

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Instructions

• 1

  Drink cranberry juice to both prevent and treat an existing bladder infection. Cranberries are effective because they make the urine more acidic, which is an inhospitable environment for bacteria. Try to find a juice with low amounts of sugar. You can also take a cranberry supplement.

• 2

  Swallow an uva ursi supplement, but do not take it longer than a week or two. Do not take uva ursi if you have kidney problems. Discontinue use if you develop a fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or severe back pain, and contact your doctor.

• 3

  Try a goldenseal supplement. Goldenseal has antibiotic properties. However, do not take it if you are pregnant, nursing, or if you have liver or kidney disease. Young children should also not take goldenseal.

• 4

  Use tea tree oil soap in your pelvic region when you bathe. This can help get rid of the bacteria. Also, avoid using scented products in the area--such as perfumed toilet tissue, bubble baths, or vaginal sprays--as this can irritate the area and may be a possible cause of your infection.

• 5

  Take plenty of vitamin C, as it helps both your immune system and aids in acidifying your urinary tract.