Bladder Infection - UTI Natural Remedies
A Urinary Tract Infection is an infection that can happen anywhere along the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, kidneys, urethra, and the ureters. While men do get Urinary Tract Infections, they are more common among women because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. Urinary Tract Infections, or UTIs, are a serious health problem affecting millions of people each year.
The bacterial infection known as Cystitus occurs when the lower urinary tract becomes infected by bacteria. The majority of these Cystitus cases are caused by E coli, a bacteria in the lower digestive tract. Other risk factors for Cystitus include blockage of the bladder, pregnancy, and diabetes.
Microorganisms like Chlamydia and Mycoplasma may also cause Urinary Tract Infections in both men and women, but these infections are usually limited to the urethra and reproductive system. Sexual intercourse may increase the risk of developing a UTI, which is just another of the many good reasons for condom use.
In order to avoid a Urinary Tract Infection it's important to drink plenty of fluids because when you urinate, you help remove bacteria from the bladder. However, do not drink fluids that tend to irritate the bladder like alcohol or caffeine. If bacteria is allowed to grow faster than it is removed by urination, an infection is the result. Women should always keep their genital areas clean by wiping from front to back in order to reduce the chance of transferring bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra.
In addition, urinating immediately after sexual intercourse may help eliminate any bacteria that might have been introduced during intercourse. If you do not urinate for a long period of time, you are giving the bacteria time to multiply. Frequent urination could possibly reduce the risk of cystitis in people who suffer from frequent Urinary Tract Infections.
Here are a few of the most popular herbs used in herbal therapies:
Echinacea: This has been claimed to boost the body's immune system to help fight off infections. It has been widely used to treat the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections
Goldenseal: This is typically used as an antibiotic. It is often used in conjunction with Echinacea to ward off the common cold or the flu.
Rose Hips: This is a good source of vitamin C.
Chamomile: This is often used for calming overly stressed nerves, relieving stomach pain, preventing ulcers, and fighting infection.
Garlic: This is known to be a potent natural antibiotic, with natural anti-viral properties. It aids in the reduction of cholesterol and prevents the formation of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
Slippery Elm Bark: This is helpful for soothing sore throats, coughs, and stomach disorders.
Ginseng: This is used to help stimulate the immune system. It aids protecting of the liver from toxic things. And it has widely been used to increase stamina.
Dandelion: This is helpful in relieving premenstrual bloating.
Feverfew: This has been used to aid in the prevention of migraine headaches.
Raspberry Leaf: This is popular in the treatment of morning sickness and uterine infection. It has also been known to aid in the prevention of miscarriage.
Spearmint & Peppermint: These are typically used in the treatment of indigestion.
Comfrey: This is often used in the treatment of cuts or bruises.
Senna: This is a very powerful natural laxative.
Uva Ursi: This is used as a natural diuretic. It is also known for its urinary antiseptic effects.
Ginger: This has been used to help prevent motion sickness. Also used in the prevention of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
Licorice: A digestive aid. Also good for soothing sore throats and treating ulcers.
Remember, before starting any kind of herbal therapy, learn as much as possible about any contraindications, or any allergies that you may have. And you may want to consult with a reputable herbalist to help with your individual needs.
Please continue browsing this site to discover a new world of simple, natural remedies and cures.