Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder, typically caused by a bacterial infection. Its symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate, burning and pain during urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
Women are more prone to cystitis than men due to their shorter urethra. Cystitis can be treated with antibiotics, but some people prefer a more natural approach with herbs and supplements.
Cranberry
Cranberry is perhaps the most well-known remedy for cystitis. It contains proanthocyanidins that prevent the bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls, making it easier for them to be flushed out of the body.
Cranberry can be consumed as juice or taken in supplement form. However, it is important to note that consuming too much cranberry can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea.
D-mannose
D-mannose is a type of sugar that is naturally found in some fruits, including cranberries. Like cranberry, it prevents the bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls. D-mannose is available in supplement form and is safe to use, even in large doses.
Buchu
Buchu is a herb that is traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections, including cystitis. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with cystitis.
Buchu is available in supplement form and can also be made into a tea.
Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi is a herb that has antibacterial properties and is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections. It helps to soothe the bladder and reduce the inflammation associated with cystitis.
Uva Ursi is available in supplement form and can also be made into a tea.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a herb that has antibacterial properties and is commonly used to treat a range of infections, including urinary tract infections. It helps to soothe the bladder and reduce the inflammation associated with cystitis.
Goldenseal is available in supplement form and can also be made into a tea.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system. It can also help to acidify the urine, making it more difficult for the bacteria to grow.
However, it is important to note that taking too much Vitamin C can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea. Vitamin C can be taken in supplement form or consumed through foods such as oranges, strawberries, and kiwi.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria. They can also help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract.
Probiotics can be consumed through foods such as yogurt or taken in supplement form.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibiotic that helps to fight off bacterial infections, including cystitis. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with cystitis.
Garlic can be consumed fresh or in supplement form.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a powerful antimicrobial that can help to fight off bacterial infections, including cystitis. It can be taken in supplement form or applied topically.
However, it is important to note that oregano oil should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or by people with high blood pressure or heart disease.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb that has immune-boosting properties. It can help to fight off bacterial infections and reduce inflammation. Echinacea is available in supplement form and can also be made into a tea.