Natural Remedy Ideas to Help Get Rid of a Urinary Tract Infection Quickly
This article is about how to keep urinary tract infections (UTI’s) out of your life, plus some common sense, natural ways (using herbs) to get rid of them fast if you happen to get one of these stinkers.
If you've ever had a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection), also known as a bladder infection, then you know the pain can be A-gonizing. Like, almost as bad as labor pains. At the very least, it's a painful annoyance, and at the worst, you can experience passing blood, pus, and crystals.
Sorry to be so graphic, but THAT's the kind of bladder infection I chronically experienced for over 15 years in my younger days. As a former public school teacher, I am well aware that teachers suffer more than others from UTI’s because it’s hard to just use the restroom when you need to, and holding your bladder is not conducive to the health of your urinary system.
Urinary Tract Infections are AWFUL---and they are even worse if you visit a doctor and still can't find relief. Did you know there are natural ways to stay well or get rid of a UTI fast?
I was inspired to write this article because a good friend of mine who is a high school teacher, has had an awful time recovering from a very bad UTI.
Teachers can't always use the restroom when they need to because they are duty bound by a schedule, so UTI's are super common for school teachers as well as others in careers where access to using the restroom as needed is limited.
So---to all the school teachers, nurses, truck drivers, and others out there with stringent schedules: This one's for you!
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All About Urinary Tract Infections & Some Natural Remedies to Prevent and Heal
When I had my very first UTI/bladder infection, I was going to college, and I had NO idea what on earth was happening to me.
When I had to use the restroom for about the 10th time in the middle of the night, and finally blood, crystal, and pus emerged instead of urine, the pain was incredibly intense, and I couldn't get hold of my parents to ask them what to do.... I wouldn't wish that on any young girl.
It was a nightmare, and I think I must have a bit of PTSD.
Since then, I've educated myself very well on these types of infections, especially since I had them chronically for about 15 years due to factors I didn't understand back then. Thankfully, I have figured out over the years that there are some highly effective natural ways to prevent and heal from a UTI, especially if it is just getting started in your body.
First off: Rx antibiotics. Prescription antibiotics mess up your system, my friends. And when you are taking a lot of them, antibiotics can do some UN-Godly things to your micro-biome, causing even more infections to occur because your immune system can actually become compromised by the imbalance.
Little did I know back then, that the antibiotics I was taking at that time for my skin condition (Rosacea) were not doing me any favors (nor were they helping my skin condition). In fact, I suspect my body actually became resistant to some antibiotics because I had been prescribed so many over such a long period of time.
And all I can say now is, “WHY?”
In our country, we are taught to go to our doctor and turn over our power to make healing decisions for ourselves to that person---and just hope for the best. We hope our doctor asks us the right questions about other medications we are taking and has the knowledge to prescribe appropriate treatments.
We hope our doctor has at least some basic knowledge of lifestyle changes and natural remedies that may help us first before just whipping out that prescription pad. You know—-the knowledge and desire to give us some alternate, healthy choices.
But I digress. Back to the UTI problem:
Because women have a shorter urethra (the tube urine comes through after it passes the bladder), ladies have a higher likelihood of contracting a bladder infection than men do. A UTI can include any infection in the urethra, bladder, or even kidneys.
Here is information about UTI's, what they are and what to do if you feel one coming on, and some things to do if you already have one.
If you've EVER experienced a UTI, you know the pain and agony a bladder infection can cause. A UTI is a Urinary Tract Infection. Find out what it is, what causes a UTI, how to prevent a UTI, and how to heal naturally from a bladder infection. Urinary Tonic Herbal Tea recipe is included! #uti #urinarytractinfection #herbalremedies #naturalremedies #herbalism #naturalhealth #wellness #healingharvesthomestead
Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Here are the signs to look out for that let you know you may be getting (or have) a UTI:
You may experience all or just some of these symptoms. Our bodies are all different and no two infections are the same. The signs I personally were tuned in to were the first 5 or 6 of these, but you may not have all of these symptoms, and you may have others in addition!
Persistent urge to urinate---You go, and then you need to go again too soon afterward
A twisting/painful feeling when urinating
A burning feeling when urinating
Urinating very small amounts frequently
Cloudy-looking urine
Urine containing blood (may range from pink to red)
Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
You may feel overall rundown and just "sick"
You may have a fever or nausea
You may feel tired
When you are experiencing several of these symptoms, you may have a full blown infection.
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How to Prevent a UTI and Understanding the Causes of a UTI
But first....let's talk prevention. A person who has chronic bladder infections generally figures out there are some things you can do to prevent them in the first place. And what a blessing that is!
(This article is directed mainly at women, and so these preventive measures are more specific to ladies.)
1) Cleanliness
This probably goes without saying, but keeping yourself clean down there is a good idea. UTI's are caused by micro-organisms entering the urethra and creating infection if the "good bacteria" can't hold them off. These micro-organisms may include bacteria or fungus.
When wiping after urination, it's very important to wipe from front to back. This keeps bacteria from the anal region back where they belong.
2) Moisture
One of the best things you can do for yourself is blow dry the area gently after showering. I know that may sound strange, but drying the genital area thoroughly can help keep moisture-loving organisms away.
Another way to cut down on moisture is to wear cotton panties or panties that wick sweat away. It's important that the panties "breathe." Avoid wearing nylon undies or undies that are too tight.
3) Sexual Activity
Unfortunately, lots of intimacy can create conditions where a UTI can get going. I have learned it's best to urinate both before and after the act.
Having urine in your bladder during sex is irritating, and bacteria may have been introduced to the urethra in a number of ways during the act. Therefore, urinating afterwards can help tremendously.
4) Hydration
Stay hydrated! It's pretty common knowledge that you should be urinating about every two hours or so, but you know your body best. At least drink the expected eight ounces of water at least eight times a day! More, if you can, is even better.
5) An Acidic Environment
Ideally, the bladder maintains a fairly acidic environment because this helps cut down on bacterial growth. The best way I've found to maintain urinary system health is by taking a daily dose of cranberry.
You can drink the juice, if you like----but be sure it doesn't contain added sugar. My favorite way to take cranberry is by purchasing a quality brand of tablet or capsule and taking the recommended amount daily.
6) Take Care of Your Gut
Try to avoid antibiotics if you can. They kill all the bad (and good) bacteria in your body. You might think this is great, but your body NEEDS its good bacteria. When your body's good bacteria is gone, there is nothing keeping the bad guys from taking over.
There's been a lot of talk about candida lately, and I believe from my own experience that making sure your gut is healthy is the best thing you can do for your overall immune system.
Here's how to help maintain a healthy gut:
Take or consume probiotics. The best way to get these, in my opinion, is by eating fresh, raw fermented foods. You can make them yourself very easily, or you can purchase them in the refrigerated area in good health grocers. Here's an article to read about fermentation and why you should be eating fermented foods if you are interested in this strategy (which I think everyone should be---it's life-changing). There are other fermentation articles on the blog too.
Avoid added sugars---Sugar is in practically all processed foods these days. You won't know it by looking at the labels, though, because manufacturers have devised all kinds of sneaky ways to sugar up your foods and poison you without you being aware. My rule of thumb is if I don't know what it is and what it does, then I don't put it in my body.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates you and it is actually turned to a sugar in your system.
You might want to try cutting out grains/seeds that contain gluten. Going gluten free was a game-changer for me. I'm not always eating gluten-free, but when I do, I feel a huge difference.
7) Trim, Don't Shave---Or Better Yet, Be Natural
Most ladies aren't aware that God made our bodies a certain way for a reason. Besides being carriers of pheromones (the scent molecules that attract the opposite sex), your body hair serves an important purpose. The hair down there actually helps keep bacteria away from your urethra.
I know shaving is all the rage these days, but you might want to consider going au naturale! Or at least go for a little trim, and leave some of that natural protection behind. Just saying.....
8) A Healthy Immune System
You can read more about boosting your immune system in this article: How to Prevent a Cold or Flu Naturally. and How to Stop a Cold/Flu in Their Tracks. Both of these articles deal with immune system health.
If you have a healthy immune system, it's far more likely your body will be able to fight off infections of all kinds, including UTI’s.
9) Urinary Tonic Tea Daily, with a Recipe
If you are very prone to bladder infections, drinking a tea made with tonic herbs that support the urinary system daily can be extremely helpful. Here's a recipe inspired by Rosemary Gladstar in her book, Medicinal Herbs:
1 part Chickweed (Stellaria media)
1 part Corn Silk (Zea mays)
1 part Dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale)
1 part Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica)
1 part Marshmallow root or leaf (Althaea officinalis)
1 part Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea or E. angustifolia)
Mix and prepare as a tea infusion. If you are not sure what that is, here is an article that discusses making your own herbal infusions for daily health.
Here's why these herbs work:
Chickweed is an exceptional diuretic, so it will help you pass extra liquids, which not only cleanses your urinary system, it helps move the bacteria out.
Both Nettle and Dandelion are detoxifiers, diuretics, and are full of nutrition. They are extremely supportive of the urinary system.
The Marshmallow is a demulcent herb, which means it is incredibly soothing to inflamed tissues in your body, including your bladder and urethra.
Where I Get My Herbs:
If I don't grow or wild-harvest them, I purchase my medicinal and culinary herbs from Starwest Botanicals. Once you've tried loose herbs and culinary spices, you'll never go back to those stale old store bought herbs!
How to Deal with Your UTI Naturally and Herbs that Help with UTI’s
OK. You're feeling it! It's coming! YIKES! What's a girl to do?
Well, there are some things you can do right away that may get rid of that infection.
One thing you can do is to take herbal tinctures that are antibacterial and support the urinary system.
Herbal Actions that Help with UTI’s and Support the Urinary Tract
Herbs that have certain actions can be very helpful if you feel a urinary tract infection coming on. These actions include herbs that are:
1) Antimicrobial/Antibiotic: Herbs containing berberines, a chemical class that can help with infection, especially when exposed directly to the herb, are helpful: Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), Oregon grape root (Mahonia aquifolium), Echinacea (E. purpurea or E. angustifolia) etc.
2) Anti-inflammatory: Herbs such as ginger (Zingiber officinalis), turmeric (Curcuma longa), black pepper (Piper nigra), etc.
3) Diuretic: These are excellent in formulations for UTI’s and include nettle leaf (Urtica dioca), dandelion leaf (Taraxicum officinale), horsetail (Equisetum spp), chickweed (Stellaria media) etc.
4) Astringent: Herbs with astringent actions tighten and tone the bladder walls and the urethra. Some, like cranberry, can also create a hostile environment for bacteria that want to colonize on the walls of the bladder. Some herbs include cranberry, urva ursi, goldenseal, goldenrod, and others.
5) Anti-spasmodic: Uva-ursi and cranberry are very good helpers.
6) Demulcent: Marshmallow root, slippery elm bark, corn silk, etc. These herbs calm and soothe inflamed areas, such as the urinary tract during a UTI.
When herbs with these actions are skillfully blended together, you may be able to alleviate having to visit the doctor or taking an anti-biotic.
Herbal Tea for a Urinary Tract Infection
There are many combinations of herbal teas for UTI’s that can be very helpful. Here is one formula that is very good, and you can find out more in my Ditch the Drugstore online course.
Ingredients:
1 part dandelion leaf
1 part nettle leaf
1 part Oregon grape root or goldenseal root
1 part goldenrod
1 part marshmallow leaf
Directions:
Combine the herbs together to create a loose leaf herbal tea. Store in a tightly lidded glass jar in a cool, dark place.
To make the tea, place two tsp in an infuser and pour 12 ounces of just boiled water over the top. Allow to steep for 15-30 minutes. The longer you steep the herbs, the more powerful the tea will be, and also more bitter.
Drink two to three cups per day for up to five days.
NOTE: If you don’t find relief after 24-48 hours, please visit a medical doctor.
Making or purchasing tinctures made with anti-biotic herbs can also be extremely helpful (in my personal experience).
Herbal Tincture Recipe for Promoting Urinary Tract and Bladder Wellness
My favorite tincture is one made with Juniper, Goldenseal, and Elderberry. If I know I'm getting a bladder infection for sure, then I'll use this several times a day.
Uva Ursi is another well-known herb used for bladder infections, but I don't have it growing around here. If you do, though, or would like to purchase some, it's a great preventive herb.
Both Juniper and Uva Ursi are excellent antibacterials for the urinary tract. Goldenseal is a general anti-biotic herb, and Elderberry is an incredible immune system boosting herb. Again, check out Starwest Botanicals for your herbs and even teas that are already blended for medicinal purposes.
Here’s a good formula to start with and how to turn it into a tincture:
Ingredients:
2 parts Uva ursi
1 part Yarrow
1 part Lemon Balm
1 part Elderberry
1 part Echinacea root or leaf (E. angustifolia or E. purpurea are both fine)
1/2 part Goldenseal or Oregon Grape Root (Oregon grape root is more sustainable)
Directions:
Measure out your herbal parts in a bowl. Add them to a pint or quart jar about 1/3 of the way. Top to within an inch of the top with 80 proof vodka. Shake well daily. After four to six weeks, strain off the liquid, and bottle up.
Take one to two full droppers two to three times a day. If relief isn’t experienced within 24 hours or the condition isn’t improving, see a medical doctor.
The other best things you can do right away if you feel a UTI coming on include:
Stop having intercourse until it's gone
Increase the cranberry dosage---I'll triple or even quadruple the suggested dose on the container for myself
Drink extra fluids to increase urination (try the UTI tea recipe above)
Take a Valerian tincture in the evening. Valerian has mild anti-spasmodic properties in addition to being a sedative. So, it helps with pain too.
Use a homeopathic brand like AZO for UTI pain relief. They make a great pain reliever for UTI's (same stuff as the prescription, although the dosage may be less, I'm not certain), and sometimes taking this with all the other remedies above will get rid of even a bad UTI.
These are all the non-doctor things I do when I feel that UTI coming on and want to get rid of it fast.
But what if you're desperate and can't stand the pain? Or…what if your efforts don’t work fast enough?
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When to See a Doctor
I'll tell you what.
I'll never say you shouldn't go see a doctor. There's always a time and place for everything.
When that pain hits you and you're scared of using the restroom (about every five minutes) because it just hurts SO darn bad, I completely understand that you might just want to get to the doctor fast for some hopeful relief.
Use your best judgment.
And if you are leery of trying herbal medicine, do some research! Check out the herbs mentioned above or ask an herbalist friend in your area if they have a tincture or tea you can try. Using natural remedies is so often so much more effective and gentle to your body than using Rx choices.
With that said….when your body is in pain, it’s telling you something. Sometimes super quick relief from prescription meds is the better choice….just know it’s a good idea to work on the natural health of your body after it’s been zapped with antibiotics.
Final Thoughts on Urinary Tract Infections and Natural Methods of Health and Healing
I can think of very little worse than experiencing chronic bladder infections (or even just one isolated one, for that matter). They are just miserable, and if you get the extreme kind like I used to get before I turned to natural healing methods through food and herbs, then I’m sure you want to never ever get one again.
Girl, I feel your pain, I really do.
Even though it's been over 10 years since I've had a bladder infection (and that one was quite tiny), I can still vividly recall the horrors and pain of the kind I used to have back in my twenties and into my thirties.
I hope you'll consider taking the prevention advice above, and my prayers are with you that you find relief and never experience one again. If you do happen to get a UTI, I hope and pray for you that it gets gone fast!
Would you like to know more about becoming an herbalist? You might be interested in these eight tips for learning how to use herbs! And be sure to check out my free private Facebook group for safe, effective herbal education: Practical Herbs with Heidi.
Are you a person who has really horrible bladder infections? What are your thoughts? Maybe you have an idea to share here in the comments?
You may also enjoy these related herbal health articles:
Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy
Best Essential Oils for Wrinkles and Scars
The Best and Easiest Natural Decongestant
And check out my series on How to Get Started Using Herbs for Your Health!
Hugs, Health, & Self-Reliance,
Heidi
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Sources:
https://www.prevention.com/health/g20474837/9-types-of-people-who-get-utis-the-most/
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
P.P.S. Have you ever thought about learning more about herbal medicine? Have you wanted to heal yourself naturally or known how to take herbs for daily health and energy? Do you want your family to experience natural health? Check out our HHH School of Botanical Arts & Sciences to learn more and choose a course that’s right for you!
DISCLAIMER: I am NOT a medical doctor. The statements in this article and elsewhere in my publications are not meant or implied to cure, treat, diagnose, or prevent any illness or disease. Always seek advice from a medical professional, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or on medication. These statements are informational only and are simply my personal opinion based on my own experiences and study. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. For full disclosures and disclaimers.