Treating a Bladder Infection With Herbs

Treating a bladder infection with herbs is possible and easier than you may think.

Herbal remedies can be - and are - very effective. There are a few to consider:

Cranberry juice

Uva Ursi

Echinacea

Cornsilk

Yarrow

More information:

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Cranberries	Yarrow	Echinacea	Corn Silk	Uva Ursi

Treating a Bladder Infection: Uva Ursi

Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi

Description And Part Used

The leaves of this small shrub have been used as an herbal folk medicine for centuries.

Through modern day scientific research in test tubes and animals, Uva Ursi's antimicrobial properties and diuretic effects have been demonstrated. Uva Ursi has been approved for treating inflammation of the lower urinary tract by Commission E of the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices. This organization is the German governmental agency that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of herbal products.

Uva Ursi has been reported to also be effective against E. coli.

Medicinal Properties

Anti-bacterial

Anti-microbial

Anti-septic

Astringent

Diuretic

Muscle relaxant

Tonic for the kidneys

Tonic for the liver

Tonic for the pancreas

Uva Ursi is indicated for:

Chronic diarrhea

Bladder infection

Gonorrhea

Bladder infection

Relieve the pain of bladder stone

Treat cold sores, herpes, and vaginal infections

Prevent postpartum infection

Etc.

Some sources will caution against the use of Uva Ursi during pregnancy. It is a strong diuretic and should be used with caution. HOWEVER, many reputable sources say it is wonderful - and safe - especially for very aggressive UTIs. If you are concerned about its safety, use another of the herbs mentioned here first.

Susun Weed - in her book "Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year" - has this to say about the use of Uva Ursi during pregnancy:

"I have seen it clear up chronic bladder infections resistant to antibiotics and standard allopathic medicines. [...] drink one cup of the infusion (1 oz of herb to a quart jar steeped for 8 hours) every 12 hours the first 2 days. [...] Continue with at least one cup daily for another 3 days. [...] Do not use more than 10 days."

Treating a Bladder Infection: Echinacea

Echinacea Purpurea

Description

Echinacea is a perennial native to North America.

The 5 to 6 inch daisy-like flowers have florets around a prominent centre and they flower the whole summer. The colors of the flowers range from white to purple. The branches are 2 to 5 ft tall. The leaves are dark and green.

Parts Used

Mainly the root is used as extract (tincture), but the leaves, flowers and seeds are also used. The roots are harvested in the fall and are dried for later use.

Medicinal Properties

Echinacea stimulates the immune system against bacterial and viral infections.

Echinacea's antibacterial properties can stimulate wound healing and are of benefit to skin conditions such as burns, insect bites, ulcers, psoriasis, acne and eczema.

Its anti-inflammatory properties may relieve arthritis and lymphatic swelling.

Many studies have shown that Echinacea can improve the migration of white blood cells to attack foreign microorganisms and toxins in the blood. Nowadays many believe that Echinacea is effective because it contains arabinogalactan and galactose which are two glyconutrients.

Treating a Bladder Infection: Cornsilk

Zea Mays

Description

Corn is a grass which can grow up to 3 meters - 10 feet. It forms thick stems with long leaves.

Each corn plant forms male and female flowers:

The male flowers form the tassel at the top and produce yellow pollen.

The female flowers form corn silk - yellow soft threads.

The purpose of the cornsilk is to catch the pollen.

Parts Used

Only cornsilk is harvested for medicinal properties. Cornsilk can be used fresh or dried and it should be harvested just before pollination occurs.

Medicinal Properties

Cornsilk has detoxifying, relaxing and diuretic activity.

Cornsilk is used to treat infections of the urinary and genital system, such as bladder infection. Cornsilk helps to reduce frequent urination caused by irritation of the bladder and is used to treat bed wetting problems.

In China, cornsilk is traditionally used to treat edema and jaundice. Studies indicate that cornsilk can reduce blood clotting time and reduce high blood pressure.

Treating a Bladder Infection: Yarrow

Achillea Millefolium

Description and Part Used

The stem is angular and rough. The leaves alternate and they are 3 to 4 inches long and 1 inch broad. They have a feathery appearance.

Yarrow flowers from June to September.

The whole plant is used.

Medicinal Properties

Yarrow is diaphoretic, astringent, tonic, stimulant and mild aromatic.

Yarrow tea is a good remedy for severe colds, being most useful in the commencement of fevers and in cases of obstructed perspiration. It opens the pores freely and purifies the blood, and is recommended in the early stages of children's colds, and in measles and other eruptive diseases.

Caution:

Susun Weed, in her book The Wise Woman Herbal For The Childbearing Years, cautions against the use of the following herbs for bladder infections during pregnancy:

Juniper Berries

Horsetail

Buchu

These herbs place extra stress on the kidneys.

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Have You Suffered From a Bladder Infection?

Did you cure it naturally? Did you use cranberry juice or another herb? Any tip? Suggestions? Share it!