|  | Conditions Treatments | Urinary Disorders

UTI Naturopathic Remedy Information

Urinary tract infections (UTI), caused by bacteria, originate in the urinary system. The bladder and urethra are the most commonly affected areas. You might get a UTI once or suffer recurring infections throughout your life. A natural treatment strategy includes certain dietary suggestions, supplements and self-care measures that help treat and prevent infections. Consulting with a health care provider experienced in treating health problems naturally is the best way to design an effective regimen. Since certain supplements offer similar benefits, it is not necessary to take each one suggested. Natural treatments are best used as a complement to standard antibiotics.

  1. Dietary Suggestions

    • Cranberries contain beneficial substances that prevent bacteria from attaching to the bladder tissue. This is one of the best ways to treat a UTI. If you are prone to infections, drink unsweetened cranberry juice regularly. If it is too tart, dilute it with some water. Blueberries contain similar beneficial substances.

      Drink plenty of fluids to help flush bacteria from the urinary system. Herbal teas and water are optimal. Eat antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables.

      Avoid coffee, alcohol and other caffeinated drinks; they contain irritating substances that delay healing and can also cause UTI.

    Natural Supplements

    • The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that there are supplements that might be useful in treating UTI.

      Cat's claw and reishi mushroom contain antibacterial properties. Take 20 mg three times daily of cat's claw and 300 mg three times daily of reishi mushroom. Milk thistle helps the liver detoxify harmful substances like bacteria; use 160 mg three times a day.

      Omega-3 fatty acids ease inflammation; take one or two fish oil capsules or one tablespoon of oil twice a day. Probiotic supplements contain the "friendly" bacteria that destroy harmful bacterial organisms. Take as directed on the product label. Grapefruit seed extract fights bacteria; take five to 10 drops in the beverage of your choice.

      If you are post-menopausal, natural hormone replacement therapy might prevent recurrent UTI. Always discuss this treatment with your doctor before using it on your own.

      The most effective homeopathic remedy for a UTI is cantharsis. Take as directed on the label.

    Self-Care Measures

    • The following self-care measures can help treat and prevent UTI. Do not wear tight-fitting pants. Wear cotton underwear. Go to the bathroom when you need to and avoid holding your urine. Keep your genital and anal areas clean. Urinate after sex to get rid of bacteria in the urethra. Wipe front to back after going to the bathroom. Avoid using popular feminine hygiene sprays, powders and douches; they irritate the urethra (tube which through urine leaves the body) and make it more vulnerable to infection.

Urinary Disorders - Related Articles