6 Remedies for Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) happen when there are too many bacterial and viral agents in your system.
They affect the health of your bladder, kidneys, and urinary tract while triggering uncomfortable symptoms that can last for several days.
What’s more, their appearance signals a weakened immune system that isn’t producing enough antibodies to defend your body.
Although UTIs are usually mild, failing to address them can lead to severe symptoms and complications.
Why do they happen? What symptoms develop? We’ll explore these questions and six natural remedies that help control urinary tract infections.
What causes urinary tract infections?
The most common cause is an excessive amount of the E. coli bacteria, which is naturally present in the large intestine. However, UTIs can also be caused by other viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Most of them develop as follows:
- The pathogenic agents enter the system through the urethra (the tube through which urine exits the body).
- Once inside, these microorganisms colonize the bladder’s tissues and kidneys, spreading the infection.
- Since women have a shorter urethra than men, they’re more likely to be affected.
Risk factors
The most common risk factors include:
- Poor personal intimate hygiene habits,
- Unprotected sexual relations,
- Resisting the urge to urinate for prolonged periods,
- Kidney stones,
- Diabetes,
- Injuries in the urinary tract,
- Pregnancy and menopause.
Symptoms of urinary tract infections
Symptoms of a UTI vary from one person to another, depending on the microorganism present. Despite the variations, the following are the most common:
- Cloudy or dark yellow urine,
- Pain while urinating,
- Frequent need to urinate,
- Urinating small amounts,
- Mild fever,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Pain and abdominal swelling,
- Strong-smelling urine,
- Blood in urine.
Want more information? Read: 8 Reasons Your Urine Smells Bad
Natural remedies to alleviate urinary tract infections
Minor UTIs can be treated using natural remedies. However, if symptoms don’t improve or if there are any complications, seek medical attention.
1. Baking soda
Baking soda’s alkaline properties alter the conditions the microorganisms need to thrive in the urinary tract. Consuming it moderately speeds up relief and soothes the discomfort felt while urinating.
Application
- Add a teaspoon to a glass of water and drink on an empty stomach.
2. Pineapple
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which reduces the inflammation of the urinary tract. As a result, it helps reduce the symptoms caused by infections.
Application
- Eat many portions of pineapple a day until you see an improvement.
- If you’d like, you can also make pineapple juice and drink 2 to 3 times a day.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the best remedies for urinary tract problems. Their concentration of antioxidants and natural anti-inflamatory properties brings fast relief for UTIs.
Application
- Drink a glass of blueberry juice twice a day.
Check out this article: Detox Your Liver With This Blueberry and Beet Smoothie
4. Hot compress
Using a hot compress won’t affect the microorganisms causing the infection. However, it’s useful for reducing swelling and pain in the lower abdomen.
Application
- Put a hot compress over the affected area.
- Let sit for at least 10 minutes for the heat to stimulate your circulation.
5. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is great for fighting viral and bacterial infections. In addition, its active compounds inhibit the growth of microorganisms and reduce inflammation.
Application
- Dilute in warm water and take a 5-minute sitz bath.
6. Barley water
Barley water’s diuretic properties clean the urinary tract, reducing the amount of harmful germs and bacteria.
Application
- Prepare barley water and drink 2 to 3 times a day.
Are you experiencing the symptoms of a urinary tract infection? Try these home remedies and see their benefits for yourself.
Finally, improve your hygiene habits, drink more water, and avoid having sexual relations until you’ve recovered.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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- Sorlozano A, Jimenez-Pacheco A, de Dios Luna del Castillo J, Sampedro A, Martinez-Brocal A, Miranda-Casas C et al. Evolution of the resistance to antibiotics of bacteria involved in urinary tract infections: A 7-year surveillance study. Am J Infect Control 2014; 42: 1033-1038.
- Risco Ester, Miguélez Carlos, Sánchez de Badajoz Eduardo, Rouseaud Alberto. Efecto del arandano americano (Cysticlean®), sobre la adherencia de Escherichia colia células epiteliales de vejiga: Estudio in vitro y ex vivo. Arch. Esp. Urol. [Internet]. 2010 Agosto ; 63( 6 ): 422-430. Disponible en: http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0004-06142010000600003&lng=es.