Natural remedies for cystitis can help you reduce or eliminate this condition that often makes our day less pleasant. Whether it’s infusions, herbal teas, decoctions or mother tinctures, there are various natural treatments on the market to cure cystitis.
Cystitis is among the most common urinary tract infections and manifests itself with very annoying symptoms such as pain and burning in the lower abdomen, especially during urination, but also with the continuous need to urinate.
It is generally not dangerous to health, but should not be underestimated because the infection could also spread to other organs, such as the upper urinary tract and the kidneys or genitals.
There are certainly medicines for the most serious cases, but in milder cases or as a form of prevention, natural herbal remedies with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics are also perfect.
Natural remedies for cystitis: the most effective
Cystitis, an inflammation of the urinary tract, can create severe discomfort, especially in the acute phase. In lighter cases or to prevent any relapses, however, it is possible to intervene with natural remedies, which manage to relieve the symptoms.
Naturally, if the problem occurs too often and with more severe manifestations, it is necessary to consult a doctor to establish the most suitable therapy, usually based on antibiotics. But if it’s just episodes, it can be a good solution to rely, at least initially, on natural remedies.
Drinking plenty of water is certainly useful, just as it is important to pay attention to nutrition and personal hygiene.
Here then are the main natural remedies to fight cystitis.
If you want to know more, read our study on cystitis.
D-Mannosio
D-mannose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide, i.e. composed of a single molecule). It occurs naturally in certain foods, such as peaches and cranberries, as well as plants such as aloe vera.
It is a substance of health interest due to its potential benefits in urinary tract infections. In fact, it is believed that D-mannose can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, thus reducing the chance of infections. It is available as a dietary supplement and is often used as a complementary treatment for cystitis.
The D-Mannose is then eliminated together with the urine at the first urination, for this reason it is necessary to repeat the integration several times a day.
It is also one of the most used remedies for cystitis in humans.
Blueberry
Like D-mannose, blueberry also has an “anti-adhesive” action for bacteria on the bladder wall. It is a fruit rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and anthocyanins and contains citric acid and malic acid, substances that give it soothing and disinfectant properties of the urinary tract.
Cranberry is also an excellent remedy for cystitis in humans. It can be consumed in the form of herbal tea, juice and supplement.
Bearberry
Bearberry is a plant often used as a natural remedy for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis. Contains active compounds, including arbutin, which is converted in the body to hydroquinone, an antimicrobial agent.
According to some research, it has disinfectant properties for the urinary tract and reduces the inflammation associated with cystitis. It would also reduce the urge to urinate and the burning.
It is often used as a food supplement or herbal tea. Also in this case it is an excellent remedy even in male cystitis.
When taking bearberry there is a change in the color of the urine, it turns towards bluish-green, don’t worry, everything recovers once the intake is stopped.
Sodium bicarbonate
When cystitis is in the acute stage it may be necessary to lower the acidity of the urine and the easiest way to do this is to use a natural antacid such as baking soda. Dissolve a teaspoon in a glass of water to make yourself a bidet several times a day.
It could relieve the burning sensation during urination, creating an environment less conducive to the proliferation of the bacteria responsible for the infection. However, it’s important to note that the use of baking soda for cystitis isn’t supported by solid scientific evidence.
Grapefruit seeds
Grapefruit seed extract seems to be a good answer against strains of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, staphylococci and streptococci, salmonella, but also against fungi and viruses. It is a remedy to be used also as a prevention in the change of seasons to protect yourself from any infections of the urinary tract and from Candida Albicans.
Mauve
Mallow is a remedy with anti-inflammatory, soothing, re-epithelizing and protective properties of the mucous membranes. For a faster effect, it can be used in the form of a decoction, herbal tea or local lavender.
It helps calm spasms, cleanses, reduces inflammation and refreshes.
Calendula
It is available on the market in various formats: dried flowers for infusions, hydroalcoholic extract, ointment and in ovules. They are all good solutions to soothe the symptoms of cystitis. It also performs antiseptic, antibacterial, soothing and refreshing activity. Furthermore, calendula is able to rebalance the vaginal bacterial flora and to calm the burning sensations of the urinary tract.
Gramigna
Gramigna has diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is also indicated against edema, cellulite and hypertension, because it helps to reduce blood pressure.
It can be consumed in the form of a decoction by drinking 1 to 3 cups a day away from meals.
Nettle
Nettle is one of the most common natural remedies for cystitis. Thanks to its high content of phytosterols, scopoletin, tannins, mineral salts and other precious phytocompounds, it has both a soothing and disinfectant function. Lowers the acidity of urine, disinfects the urinary tract, contributing to the elimination of bacteria.
It is consumed in the form of herbal tea to drink once or twice a day, as needed.
Cystitis: what to do and what to avoid
In case of cystitis, especially if the symptoms are relevant, it is necessary to consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment. However, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind to relieve cystitis symptoms and promote healing:
- Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking plenty of water helps increase urine output, which can help kill the bacteria that’s causing the infection. Instead, it is better to avoid drinks that can irritate the bladder, such as alcohol, coffee and sodas.
- Over-the-counter medications: Some pain relievers such as acetaminophen help relieve pain and burning when urinating. However, it is best to avoid non-prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they may irritate the bladder more.
- Irritating Foods: Avoid foods or drinks that can irritate the bladder and make symptoms worse, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, sodas, and coffee.
- Complete the course of antibiotics: If your doctor prescribes antibiotics for cystitis, it’s important to take your medication as prescribed and complete the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve sooner. This allows you to completely get rid of the infection and reduce the risk of relapse.
- Maintain good intimate hygiene: clean the genital area properly and gently. After urinating, it is advisable to wipe from top to bottom to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the bladder.
- Don’t hold urine: try to urinate regularly and empty your bladder completely. Holding in pee can promote bacterial growth and increase inflammation.
- Avoid the use of irritating hygiene products: especially those that contain fragrances, dyes or other irritating chemical ingredients. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free products.
- Don’t take hot baths or saunas: Prolonged exposure to heat can increase inflammation and worsen cystitis symptoms.
- Avoid painful intercourse: During cystitis, intercourse can be painful and irritating to the bladder. It is best avoided until symptoms have resolved completely.
- No to self-help: avoid taking antibiotics or other drugs without a doctor’s prescription. It is best to always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Don’t overlook recurring cystitis: If you have frequent episodes of cystitis, it’s important to see your doctor for a thorough evaluation.
Remedies and tips to prevent cystitis
In addition to the indications on what to do and what to avoid in case of cystitis, it is good to remember how important it is to do prevention and adopt a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition.
Good intimate hygiene is also very helpful, as is drinking lots of water and staying hydrated. It is also important never to hold back urine because stagnation can favor bacterial proliferation.
Using cotton underwear is also important for adequate perspiration of perspiration in intimate areas
Taking care of the diet should not be underestimated, since in the acute phase foods capable of acidifying the urine are usually recommended. In fact, a higher acidity is considered protective against urinary infections.
Among these acidifying foods there are those of animal origin, cereals, plums and blueberries; other fruits and vegetables instead have an alkalizing action.
Obviously, all irritating foods such as chili, pepper, ginger, etc. are to be suspended.
Sources:
- 6 Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
- 7 Ways to Treat a UTI without Antibiotics.
