Urinary tract infections occur when the normal bacteria of the intestinal or vaginal tract work their way to the urethra and up into the bladder. Symptoms include burning upon urination, an increased desire to urinate, and blood or mucus in the urine. Because cystitis can develop into a kidney infection, it is essential to treat it at the very first sign. Get plenty of rest, keep warm, and urinate frequently to help eliminate the bacteria. A health practitioner should be consulted if the infection is accompanied by a fever or blood in the urine or if self-treatment produces no improvement within five days. Chiropractic Care Nutrition and Supplements Herbal Remedies Homeopathic Remedies Essential Oils Chiropractic Care coming soon BACK TO MENU Nutrition and Supplements At the first sign of a bladder infection, drink large quantities of purified water to help flush the bacteria out of the bladder. Because sugar feeds the bacteria, it is essential to avoid all concentrated sweeteners, including honey, maple syrup, rice syrup, and molasses. Also eliminate caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, all of which irritate the urinary tract. The following supplements are helpful for treating a urinary tract infection: unsweetened cranberry juice or cranberry capsules, two to three times daily: contains a substance that prevents the bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder Vitamin C, 500 mg every two to three hours: to create a more acidic environment in the bladder and to boost immunity Vitamin A, in the form of beta-carotene, 25,000 IU daily: to strengthen the mucous membranes and bolster immunity zinc, 30 mg daily: to combat infection BACK TO MENU Herbal Remedies Herbs help heal a bladder infection by soothing the inflammation and through the bacteria-fighting properties of their essential oils. The following herb is a powerful and effective urinary antiseptic and should be used only for a few days, and in combination with demulcent herbs: Uva ursi (bearberry): 1 teaspoon of tincture, 1 cup of tea, or two capsules three times a day (Uva ursi works best in an alkaline environment, so avoid cranberry juice, vitamin C, and other acidic foods and beverages while using the herb.) The following herbs have demulcent, soothing properties and are most effective for bladder infections when taken as teas, at least three to four cups daily: marshmallow root cornsilk Take the following herbs for their general immune-stimulating properties: echinacea, 1 teaspoon of tincture or two capsules three to four times a day goldenseal or barberry root, 1/2 teaspoon of tincture or two capsules two times a day. (Pregnant women should not use herbs containing berberine.) BACK TO MENU Homeopathic Remedies Homeopathic remedies for cystitis include: Apis: for a constant desire to urinate accompanied by stinging and burning Cantharis: for a sudden, violent infection accompanied by blood in the urine Staphysagria: for a bladder infection that comes on after intercourse Also available are combination remedy formulas that are prepared with some or all of the above single remedies. BACK TO MENU Essential Oils Essential oils for the treatment of bladder infections can be used in massage to the abdomen and lower back or in baths. Use any of the following essential oils singly or in combination: chamomile: antiseptic, diuretic lavender: antimicrobial, antiseptic, diuretic sandalwood: urinary antiseptic, astringent, diuretic BACK TO MENU Powered by ProfessionalPlanets.com™ Copyright 1999 © ProfessionalPlanets.com™ All rights reserved. Terms of Use