Natural Remedies for Cystitis – Are They Effective?
The internet is full of advice on effect home remedies for bladder infections. This article presents the findings from research into three simple bladder infection home remedies to help you get rid of cystitis. The right diet and taking advantage of the natural home remedies can make a significant differing in curing the urine infection and even preventing recurring cystitis. Read on for our best recommendations on bladder infection home remedies.
Three Safe and Natural Treatments for Cystitis
Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder that is most often caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the bladder and urinary tract. This is a condition that is commonly referred to as a urinary tract infection (UTI), and is a very common condition. Both men and women can suffer from cystitis, although the condition is much more common in women.
Cystitis has some very telltale symptoms, including a frequent urge to urinate (with small amounts of urine produced), a burning sensation when urinating, and a feeling of pressure while you are urinating.
Following the advice in this article, you should be able to control your symptoms and help clear the infection with some easily available natural remedies. While everyone is different in how they may respond to different ingredients, these natural options can work to help relieve symptoms and prevent further infection for most people who are not allergic to any of them.
1. Drink lots of water and empty your bladder, repeatedly.
While water alone will not address any underlying bacterial overgrowth once it’s well on its way, having a full bladder and then emptying it will not only soothe your symptoms, each time you urinate your body will flush-out some of the bacteria that is causing your discomfort. As a general rule, staying properly hydrated is an excellent way to prevent cystitis in the first place, so the minute you feel even the slightest twinge suggestive of cystitis, it’s time to fill that water glass!
2. Try some goldenseal
The herb goldenseal contains a naturally anti-microbial agent called berberine. Goldenseal is available from any health food store and even major grocery chains. For cystitis, it is recommended to take goldenseal up to three times per day. However, it should be noted that many preparations of goldenseal may have inconsistent strengths, so it is best not to rely on this as the only method of treatment if you have a well-established infection. You should join this up with other natural remedies to gain the maximum benefit.
3. Chew on some celery seeds
While this one may seem a bit weird, there is actually some method to the madness. Celery seeds are a natural diuretic, due to the presence of a natural chemical called butylphthalide found in the seeds’ oil. The diuretic properties of the celery seeds will increase the amount of urine you make, helping you clear the infection at a faster rate. Remember to keep drinking a lot of water while using this treatment, and it is recommended that you chew on the seeds after a meal, as they can also aid in digestion. This is a winner with it’s dual benefits.
Conclusion
Taking some simple steps can be very effective in preventing recurring issues.
References
1. http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-882-celery.aspx activeingredientid=882&activeingredientname=celery
2. Elgayyar, M., Draughon, F. A., Golden, D. A., and Mount, J. R. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils from plants against selected pathogenic and saprophytic microorganisms. J Food Prot. 2001;64(7):1019-1024.
3. Kamble VA and et al. Spice derived essential oils: effective antifungal and possible therapeutic agents. Journal of Herbs, Spices & Medicinal Plants (J HERBS SPICES MEDICINAL PLANT) 2008;14(3-4):129-143: 1513 – 1518.
4. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/goldenseal
5. https://www.drfelix.co.uk/treatment/cystitis-treatment/ [Prevention of cystitis section]
5. http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-2099007
6. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Urinary-tract-infection-adults/Pages/Prevention.aspx
