Herbal Remedies for Bladder Infections
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Ease the discomfort and pain of a bladder infection by using the healing powers of the herbal world. Good herbs for treating this condition include horsetail and couch grass.
Bladder and urinary tract infections can be painful. Inflammation of the bladder is caused by bacterial infection, and the symptoms include discomfort in the lower abdomen, back aches and a stabbing pain when urinating. A feverish headache and vomiting can also result in some acute cases.
Herbal Remedies for Bladder Infections
Reducing Swelling
Couch grass and horsetail are some of the herbs that can help to treat an infected or inflamed bladder.
Herbal remedies can provide relief from chronic urinary infections. Anti-microbial herbs such as golden seal and cranberry are useful against bacteria such as E. coli, and you can reduce bladder inflammation with herbs such as marshmallow. Horsetail promotes the production of water, which dilutes the acidic urine and can ease feelings of discomfort. Herbs such as couch grass can help to repair a damaged and irritated bladder wall, restoring its elasticity and strength.
Causes of bladder infections
The bladder is a symbol holding tank for urine that is set to be released from the body. The tough muscular walls of the bladder are protected from acidity and infection by mucosal secretions that are produced by the bladders lining.
The wrong diet
Bacterial infections can take a hold, especially when health is poor. Bad nutrition, stress and tiredness all increase susceptibility to infection.
A high sugar diet and alcohol binge drinking can increase the chances of a bladder infection. Poor personal hygiene and tight fitting underwear can also cause infections. Another cause of bladder infection can be the friction generated against a woman’s urethra during sexual intercourse. This can be prevented by urinating after sex to remove any foreign fluids.
Herbs for healing the bladder
Some herbs are particularly suited for bladder infections because of their ability to minimize bacterial infection and sooth the lining of the bladder.
Corn silk
Corn silk is used fresh, or dried as an infusion or tincture. Use it to provide anti-inflammatory relief from urinary infections and kidney stones. Its diuretic properties help to dilute the concentration of urine. Native Americans used corn silk to treat bladder infections.
Cranberry
Just extracted from the crushed red berries of this creeping Bog Bush cleanses the urinary tract. It is particularly effective treating the E. coli bacterial infection of the bladder by binding to the bacteria, preventing them from proliferating. Mixed with raspberry lime juice for a refreshing herbal tonic to help prevent future reoccurring infections.
Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla is a member of the lily family and is rich in steroidal saponins that are anti-inflammatory and bind to bacterial toxins in the urinary system. It is useful for treating cystitis and kidney infections. Sarsaparilla root was also used in old-fashioned medicinal beers.
Couchgrass
A tincture prepared from this perennial grass has soothing anti-inflammatory properties. Its gentle diuretic action dilutes the concentration of urine, protecting the urinary tract from infection and inflammation. Couchgrass can be a pest in the lawn but it is very useful for healing.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow root is rich in mucilage compounds that act to sooth the lining of the urinary tract. Marshmallow should be taken as a decoction or tincture to decrease inflammation associated with bladder infections. The leaves from marshmallow can also be used to make an infusion or may be prepared as a vegetable.
Goldenseal
This golden flowered herb is native to Europe and northern Asia, where it grows on hillsides and Meadows. Its aerial parts are harvested to make a tincture to treat cystitis. Goldenseal has diuretic properties and tones the muscles of the bladder walls. It contains saponin compounds, which have anti-fungal actions.
Horsetail
Horsetail is a urinary astringent, reducing bleeding and inflammation. It also speeds the repair of damaged tissue and improves the strength and elasticity of the bladder wall. To release its healing powers, make a juice from the aerial parts of the plant. Horsetail contains silica and other healing minerals.
Bearberry
The leaves and berries of this European evergreen shrub provide a potent antiseptic for treating urinary infections. It is most effective in alkaline conditions, so avoid using it in conjunction with acidic cranberry. Bearberry was used in Roman times to soothe the bladder.
Prepare a tincture of marshmallow, corn silk or golden seal and add it to cranberry juice to make a powerful treatment for bladder infections.
Decoction for bladder infections
This decoction utilizes the soothing mucus inducing properties of marshmallow root combined with the healing agents contained within Echinacea to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with bladder infections. Here’s how to make this decoction;
1. Simmer 1 teaspoon each of dried, powdered marshmallow root and Echinacea root in a quart of water for 20 to 30 min. Make sure the mixture is well sealed so that none of the healing vapors escape.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve. Reserve the liquid in a covered container.
3. Your healing decoction is ready to drink. Try to consume 3 to 4 times a day as liquids are important for flushing out the urinary tract. If the symptoms persist then you should consult a physician.
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