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In the case of uncomplicated bladder infections, various medicinal plants can help treat the acute illness and prevent recurrence. In addition to the well-known cranberries, for example grouse and goldenrod are worth mentioning.
Experts from the Endowed Chair for Integrative Medicine at the University of Duisburg-Essen and the Clinic for Naturopathy & Integrative Medicine at the Evang have discovered which treatment options medicinal plants offer for acute urinary tract infections and non-infectious bladder infections. Essen-Mitte Clinics in a current article in the specialist magazine “Phytotherapy”.
Medicinal plants for urinary tract infections
The effect of individual medicinal plants against bladder infections and other urinary tract infections has already been examined in numerous studies. This year, for example, the preventive effect of cranberry juice against urinary tract infections was clearly proven for the first time.
However, there are also indications of a therapeutic benefit and a preventive effect against acute bladder infections in numerous other medicinal plants.
As the experts report in the current article, studies have shown that “flushing therapy with water and herbal flushing agents” such as: can reduce recurrent urinary tract infections
- birch leaves,
- nettle herb,
- Hauhechelwurzel,
- cat’s beard,
- horsetail herb,
- bearberry leaves,
- goldenrod,
- Spargelwurzelstock,
- Cranberries
- and juniper berries can contribute.
The possible causes of non-infectious bladder infections (interstitial cystitis) are diverse and the treatment is often very complex, the experts report. However, a possible connection with histamine intolerance is being discussed here, which can also be alleviated with phytotherapy.
Also read:
- Propolis as a home remedy for bladder infections
- Cystitis: Protein protects against urinary tract infections
In particular, phytotherapy with herbs such as rosemary, centaury, lovage, hackle root, orthosiphon leaves and goldenrod could be a promising option, as they have a histamine-reducing or stabilizing effect.
Looking for antibiotic alternatives
Overall, according to experts, urinary tract infections are among the most common bacterial infections in humans, with uncomplicated cystitis being the most common form. Due to increasing antibiotic resistance, treatment alternatives are urgently needed.
Medicinal plants and their ingredients could make a significant contribution. Many of them contain secondary ingredients with antibacterial effects that fight pathogens at various levels, the experts explain.
In summary, it can be said that phytotherapy offers promising approaches for urinary tract infections and non-infectious bladder infections. However, further clinical studies are required to check the effectiveness and safety before corresponding approaches can be included in the treatment guidelines. (fp)