Home Remedies to Treat a Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria living in the urinary system. Bacteria usually enter through the urethra and can affect the bladder and kidneys. Symptoms often include pain in the back or lower abdomen, a burning sensation and frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or dark urine, and fever or chills. Drinking lots of fluid and urinating frequently will help eliminate bacteria and avoid repeated infections, and other natural remedies are available.

Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice is the most popular home remedy for treating and preventing urinary tract infections. The acidic properties of cranberry are known to act as an antibacterial agent that prevents bacteria from growing and prohibits them from attaching to the urinary tract lining. Drink at least 8 oz. of cranberry juice a day to cure infections and prevent them from reoccurring.

Uva Ursi

Uva ursi is used to treat urinary tract infections because of its diuretic and anti microbial properties. The recommended dosage for adults is 3 to 4 cups of tea per day, or 2 g to 4 g per day in capsule form. It should not be taken more than five times a year or for more than one week. Do not take more than the recommended dosage of uva ursi because higher dosages can lead to serious health conditions.

Do not take uva ursi if you suffer from high blood pressure or kidney disease. Uva ursi should also be avoided if you are breastfeeding or pregnant. Children should not take it.

The antibacterial effects of uva ursi can be destroyed by anything that makes the urine acidic. Avoid eating acidic foods like citrus, pineapple and tomato. Spinach, molasses, alfalfa, raisins and peppermint can are urinary alkalizers and increase the antibacterial effects of uva ursi.

Other Natural Remedies

Garlic, parsley, rose hips and nasturtium can be used to help fight infection. Marshmallow, goldenrod, purslane and camp bark help reduce pain and inflammation. If you are having muscle spasms and difficulty urinating, hydrangea, fennel seed and meadow sweet may be helpful. Barley soup or tea can also be used as a diuretic.