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Cures for UTI Symptoms

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that involves the bladder, urethra and sometimes the kidneys. Traditional cures for UTIs are a regimen of antibiotics, however, there is some evidence that antibiotic use can promote the occurrence of UTIs because antibiotic use disturbs the balance of the natural flora within the vagina. UTI symptoms can be very difficult to cope with and prevention for some is an on-going job.

  1. Increase Fluid Intake

    • Drink large quantities of fluids, at least 2 quarts a day. Water helps to flush out the system and keeps increase the flow or urine.

    Things to Avoid

    • Sugars inhibit the white blood cell's ability to destroy harmful bacteria. The use of the spermicide Nonoxynol-9 can double, or triple, the chances of a woman developing a UTI. Nonosynol-9's ingredients can create microscopic tears within the vagina, thereby increasing a woman susceptibility for infection.

    Goldenseal, Blueberry and D-mannose

    • Goldenseal has antimicrobial properties and has a long history in treating bladder infections. Goldenseal can be taken as a tea, 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. per day.

      Blueberry contains some similar properties of cranberry in helping prevent the bacteria from "sticking" to the walls of the bladder. Blueberry can be taken fresh, in capsule form, or in concentrate. Most health food stores sell Blueberry products. Dosage depends on the product, so check the label to see proper dosage instructions.

      D-mannose is a sugar the body cannot digest. It migrates directly to the urinary tract and bacteria "sticks" to the sugar. It is subsequently flushed out upon urination. D-mannose comes in powder, or capsule form and is sold at most health food stores. Check the product label for proper dosage instructions.

    Cranberry and Baking Soda

    • Unsweetened cranberry juice contains Hippuric acid, which acidifies the urine and is beneficial because it helps prevent the bacteria from "sticking" to the walls of the bladder. Drinking 6 to 8 cups of cranberry juice daily can help help the symptoms of a UTI and is also preventative.

      Mixing 1/2 tsp. of baking soda with a glass of water alkalizes the urine and is an effective treatment for relieving symptoms of a UTI.

    Ulva Ursi/Upland Cranberry

    • Ulva ursi, also known as Upland cranberry, has been used for centuries as an effective treatment for urinary tract infections. Ulva ursi has antiseptic properties and can be found at most health food stores as a tea or extract. If taken as a tea, it's recommended that no more than 1 to 2 tsp. per day be taken. If taken as an extract, 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. per day.

    Nutritional Supplements

    • Vitamin C offers immune support. 500mg of Vitamin C three times a day is frequently suggested by health care professionals in helping to treat the symptoms of a UTI and as a preventative measure.

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