Herbs for Bladder Infections

Bladder infections are called cystitis or urinary tract infections.

Bladder infections are caused from a bacterial infection. The symptoms include painful urination, feeling like the bladder isn't emptying completely, fever and low back pain. An infection sometimes causes the urine to have a strong smell and tinges of blood are sometimes visible in the urine.

The majority of bladder infections are caused by bacteria from the anal area. Most notably of these bacteria are Escherichia coli or E. coli. E. coli is a microorganism that lives in the digestive tract.

Men can develop bladder infections especially if they have an enlarged prostrate but women are more likely to develop bladder infections due to the urethra being shorter. The urethra is the tube in which urine leaves the body. A shorter urethra allows the E. coli easier travel into the bladder.

Blueberry (Vaccinium) and Cranberry (V. macrocarpon). The compounds in these juices prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls. This will reduce the risk of infection because if the bacteria can't stick to the bladder walls they can't cause an infection.

Cranberry and Blueberry also contain arbutin. Arbutin is a compound that has antibiotic properties and also functions as a diuretic.

You would need to drink a lot of cranberry juice for these effects but you can purchase cranberry softgels from most stores that carry other vitamins.

Yogurt has long been known to help with yeast infections but the active bacterial cultures can be very good for bladder infections as well. Make sure that when you buy yogurt the label says it contains "live cultures" otherwise you don't get the benefits from it.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum). Parsley, along with other vegetables such as carrots, celery, and cucumbers are good for bladder infections. Parsley is a diuretic that can help empty the bladder.

Bearberry (Arctophylos uva ursi). Bearberry is closely related to blueberries and cranberries and contains a good amount of arbutin. Taking about half an ounce a day will boost antibacterial activity.

Birch (Betula). Birch contains flavonoids such as hyperoside and quercetin which have a diuretic effect on the body. Birch is good for kidney infections and bladder infections.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Dandelion is a potent diuretic. Diuretics help flush the urine from the bladder and in this process the bacteria are flushed as well. Dandelion is also high in potassium so you won't be losing this valuable nutrient in the process of all that urination.

Echinacea (Echinacea) and Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis). Echinacea is an immune booster and goldenseal is a natural antibiotic. Both of these herbs are good for all kinds of infections, even urinary tract infections.

Other tips I found that are not related to herbs are to drink plenty of water, urinate frequently, and to take a shower instead of a bath.