Herbal Medication for UTI

Urinary tract infections, also known as UTIs, are more frequent in women than men, and more than 50 percent of women will have at least one UTI. If you are suffering from a UTI, there are various herbal medications that may reduce symptoms and decrease harmful bacteria in the urinary tract.

Cause and Symptoms

A UTI is caused by bacteria in the urinary tract, which is comprised of the bladder, ureters and kidneys. It is important to treat a UTI as soon as you feel symptoms, because it may cause the bacteria to spread to the kidneys, which pose risks such as kidney infections and potential kidney damage.

Causes of UTIs include the use of cleansers in the vaginal area, birth control pills, kidney stones or other blockages of the urinary tract, pregnancy and diabetes among others. Individuals may experience different symptoms during a UTI, including pain during urination, a frequent need to use the restroom, cramps in the lower abdomen and blood in the urine.

Herbal Medicine

Before using any herbs, be sure to check with your physician to be sure they will not interact with existing medication or aggravate health conditions.

Herbs come dried in the form of powder or capsules, or liquid called tinctures. You may find herbs at health food stores or apothecaries.

Green tea may be used in capsule or tea form for antioxidants and immune boosting. To make the tea, use one teaspoon of dried leaves in a cup of hot water, and allow it to steep for five to ten minutes before drinking. You may also find green tea extract in capsule form. The University of Maryland suggests 250 to 500 mg each day for benefit.

The herb Buchu may be taken one to three times each day for its antibacterial remedy, with each dosage being 200 mg.

Milk thistle is recommended for detoxification, using 80 to 160 mg two to three times per day for treatment against a UTI.

Cat's claw is beneficial against bacterial and fungal growth, as well as in boosting the immune system. The university suggests taking 20 mg three times each day.