A urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused by organisms that are too small to be seen without a microscope, including fungi, viruses and bacteria. Despite the body’s many natural defenses, certain bacteria have the ability to attach themselves to the lining of the urinary tract and inhabit the urethra, bladder and kidneys. Although UTIs are not overly serious when treated properly, they do cause pain and suffering. At the first sign of a urinary tract infection, immediately drink 32 ounces of pure distilled water to begin flushing the excess bacteria out of your body. In addition, wear loose clothing that allows air to keep the urethra dry. Wearing tight clothes or un-breathable fabrics can create a warm moist environment which allow bacteria to grow. Here are some other ways to help the body fight the infection.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C makes urine more acidic, inhibits the growth of E. coli and enhances immune function. Taking a good vitamin C supplement while you are fighting a urinary tract infection will also help reduce inflammation and decrease free-radical damage in the body. As a preventive measure, you can add more vitamin C to your diet by eating red or yellow bell peppers, citrus fruits, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, spinach, leeks, chives and tomatoes.
D-Mannose
D-mannose is a kind of sugar that’s related to glucose. It’s thought that it can prevent certain bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. For some, taking a D-mannose supplement alone does the trick. D-mannose is derived from cranberries. The traditional home remedy to treat UTIs is cranberry juice. If you don’t have access to D-mannose, you can try drinking 1 oz of organic unsweetened cranberry juice in 8 oz of water with 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar every 2 waking hours until you knock out the infection.
Apple cider vinegar contains the powerful antimicrobial compound acetic acid. Acetic acid is one of the best natural disinfecting compounds that kills resistant bacteria and creates a favorable environment for healthy bacteria to thrive. It also strengthens the immune system by boosting your body’s detoxification pathways.
Essential Oils
The use of essential oils in natural medicine to treat bacterial infections dates back to historical records from the Chinese, Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians. Essential oils support the immune system when they are inhaled, used topically, or taken internally (make sure they are food grade). Lemongrass essential oil is particularly soothing to the urinary tract. And 0regano oil is so powerful at inhibiting bacteria growth that you will want to avoid taking any probiotic at the same time.
Myrrh essential oil also has antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic properties. Historically, it’s been used to treat wounds and prevent infections. It can be applied topically with a warm or cool compress, or rubbed into the skin. Clove oil is another essential oil that can be helpful when you are fighting an infection. It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to relieve pain and promote healing. When used properly, essential oils have the advantage of not causing antibiotic resistance, while promoting overall wellness.
Probiotics
Because of the development of bacterial resistance, one of the most promising home remedies for a urinary tract infection is probiotics. Probiotics help support the human body’s normal flora that serve as a line of defense. Making sure you are taking a high quality probiotic can also give your immune system the backup support it needs when fighting any infection. Eating fermented foods also helps restore the body’s natural flora and recolonize the bladder with helpful bacteria. Some of the healthiest fermented foods include kefir, kimchi, probiotic yogurt, raw cheese, sauerkraut and kombucha.
Garlic and Other Antimicrobials
Garlic is often referred to as “nature’s antibiotic.” It has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties and has the ability to suppress inflammation. It is an excellent source of the the important antioxidant glutathione and is high in the sulfur compound allicin which enhances detoxification. Some have reported that it decreases the urge and frequency to urinate as well as reducing the pain associated with a UTI. You can incorporate it into your diet or take it an supplement food.
If you don’t respond well to garlic, you can try other antimirobial herbs like Echinacea and Berberine. Native Americans have used Echinacea as a natural antibiotic for over 400 years. Echinacea stimulates the immune system to overcome infection. Berberine is the responsible compound found in the plant bark of goldenseal that is known to effectively kill E. coli. Its medicinal use as an antibacterial agent against resistant strains of E. coli coupled with its strong anti-fungal properties makes Berberine an effective natural antibiotic. Another option is grapefruit seed extract . It has been found to contain antibacterial properties that resemble synthetic antibacterial drugs. It’s useful against a broad range of bacteria and yeasts and has even been found to decrease the growth of pathogenic organisms in urine.
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