Treating Urinary Tract Infections at Home

Women the world over are familiar with the burning and pain of urinary tract infections. For most women, the first signs of an infection are enough to send them running to the doctor, but recurrent mild cases of UTIs can be treated at home with natural remedies. Whenever possible, infections should be treated without anti-biotics, because some experts believe the over use of anti-biotics can cause recurrence of UTIs.

Because UTIs usually cause urinary pain, some women cut back on fluids in an attempt to reduce trips to the bathroom. This actually causes more harm. By not urinating regularly, bacteria multiply in the bladder, causing the infection to become worse. Fluid intake should increase, but stay away from drinks that are loaded with sugar, carbonation and caffeine. Cranberry juice has long been touted as a natural remedy for UTIs, but straight cranberry juice is bitter and unpalatable. Cranberry juice cocktail can be used instead, but choose the drink without added sugar, apple or grape juice. Blueberry juice is thought to have the same anti-biotic properties as cranberry juice, but it can be more difficult to find. If you are prone to UTIs, a daily glass of cranberry juice can help prevent recurrences.

A tea made from one teaspoon of goldenseal root steeped in one cup of hot water, taken three to four times a day, has been shown to reduce the severity and length of a urinary tract infection. If you find the taste unpleasant, capsules are available. Other herbs that can be used are marshmallow root and zea mays.

Homeopathic remedies can also be used to treat UTIs, but only under the supervision of a licensed homeopath. Staphysagria, cantharis and apis mellifica are given in a tablet form that is placed on the on or under the tongue.

The best home treatment for UTIs is to flush your system with plenty of water. Water will increase the number of times you urinate during the day and will flush bacteria from your urinary tract. Herbal diuretics such as hydrangea, dandelion leaves and parsley can also increase urinary flow.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking any herbal remedy. Always document your herbal treatments. If your treatment is unsuccessful, your doctor will need a list of herbs you are taking to ensure that there are no drug/herb interactions. If home treatments do not relieve your symptoms within 48 hours, contact your doctor for conventional treatment.