Cinnamon and Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are common and more prevalent among women than men. If the infection is limited to your bladder, it can be painful and frustrating. But if it spreads to the kidney, the repercussions may be critical. Among the many treatments available, dietary cinnamon can help control the infection.

Onset

• Infection occurs when the bacteria E. coli enters the urinary system--kidneys, bladder or urethra--especially if the immune system has been weakened. This may not only enable bacteria to enter, but it gives them enough scope to multiply and create a full-blown infection.

Cinnamon

• Cinnamon is the inner bark of a small evergreen tree found in Asia. It has been used as a therapeutic medicine for centuries in Asia and Egypt.

Treatment

• Mix 2 tbsp. of cinnamon powder and 1 tsp. of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. Studies have shown that cinnamon (oil or extract) has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic properties. This property has been shown to suppress urinary tract infection caused by E. coli bacteria and common yeast infection caused by the bacteria Candida albicans. Cinnamon acts as a natural antibiotic and antiseptic to cure the infection.

Buying and Storing

• When buying cinnamon, make sure it is fresh by ascertaining it has retained its sweet smell. Store it in an airtight container in a cold place so as to retain its flavor. Cinnamon thus stored will retain its freshness for over 12 months.

Tips for Use

• Cinnamon adds to the flavor of the food and gives it a sweet aroma. Using it regularly helps destroy the bacteria in the urinary tract.