Reducing the Frequency and Severity of UTIs
A common and uncomfortable condition, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are an unfortunate reality for many women. Pain and the urge to urinate even when your bladder is empty, fatigue, chills, and foul-smelling urine that may be cloudy are a few of the telltale signs of a UTI. Thankfully, a few lifestyle shifts can help reduce frequency and severity. Before resorting to antibiotics for treatment, have a look at the herbal remedies in this post if the infection is caught early and on the mild side.
Best Practices to Prevent Urinary Tract Infections
Here are a few tips to help keep UTIs at bay:
- Drink enough water throughout the day to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear to discourage bacterial growth.
- Avoid soaps in the vaginal area that disrupt pH balance.
- Wipe from front to back to keep bacteria away from the urethra.
- Try showers instead of baths to avoid introducing bacteria to the urinary tract.
- Urinate before and after sexual intercourse to flush out the urinary tract.
- Only use bleach-free, organic pads and pantyliners (preferably cloth) to prevent rubbing against the urethra, which can cause infections.
What are the most effective natural remedies for UTIs?
Cranberry Juice. May help eliminate urinary tract and bladder infections by interfering with the bacteria’s ability to invade the bladder lining. If you’re prone to bladder infections, cranberry juice is an excellent preventative measure. Suggested dosage: Take cranberry capsules twice daily or drink a cup of naturally sugar-free cranberry juice daily.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) Helps to help eliminate the bacteria that cause UTIs and flush them out more efficiently. It’s a natural diuretic. Goldenrod is also highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which can provide additional relief from symptoms. Suggested dose: Infuse 2-3 teaspoons of dried goldenrod into a cup of hot water and drink up to three cups daily. Alternatively, you can take 2 dropperfuls of tincture daily.
D-Mannose. A natural remedy derived from simple sugars, mannose works by preventing the growth of UTI-causing bacteria in the urinary tract. The recommended daily dosage is 1,500 to 2,000 mg, which should be taken at the onset of a suspected UTI. It is advisable to continue taking this dosage for up to three days.
Bearberry (Uva ursi). Also known as kinnikinnick, bearberry has been used for centuries to treat urinary tract infections and bladder inflammation, such as cystitis. It can be used both as a treatment and a preventative measure. Bearberry helps reduce bacteria in the urinary tract. Suggested dose: Take bearberry tincture at the onset of a suspected UTI. Start with two dropperfuls up to four times daily until symptoms subside. Bearberry also works well when combined with goldenseal, Oregon grape, or another berberine-containing plant. In such cases, mix tinctures in equal parts and take two dropperfuls up to three times daily.
Oregano. A potent antibacterial and antimicrobial herb, it is no wonder oregano effectively eliminates bacteria from the urinary tract. If you suspect a UTI, prepare a strong tea with oregano and consume several cups daily. Alternatively, add 2 dropperfuls of oregano tincture to a large bottle of water and drink throughout the day. Make sure you drink plenty of additional water to flush out the urinary tract.
Stinging Nettle. An exceptional anti-inflammatory and diuretic, stinging nettle can help to flush bacteria from the urinary tract and prevent/treat UTIs. Suggested dosage: 40 drops of stinging nettle tincture (like the one found in my apothecary) up to three times a day. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also brew a strong stinging nettle tea and drink several cups daily.
Usnea. Historically, usnea was used by various cultures, including the ancient Greeks and Native Americans, to treat urinary problems and infections in the genitourinary system. The herb appears to work well against gram-positive bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus), which can cause UTIs. A dual-extracted tincture is recommended to capture the full range of benefits. See our Usnea Tincture in my apothecary for full details. Suggested dosage: 1-2 dropperfuls 3x/day (or 15 sprays via the mouth up to 3X/day).
Safety
If you try these remedies and your symptoms persist, see a doctor immediately for treatment. While generally considered safe for short-term use, high doses or long-term use of usnea may cause potential side effects, including liver damage.
Take Control of Your Health, Naturally
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Nicole Apelian
Nicole’s Apothecary Products in this Post
Dual-Extracted Usnea Tincture Spray
Stinging Nettle Tincture
FAQs
What are the common symptoms of UTIs?
UTIs often cause burning or pain during urination, frequent urges to urinate with little output, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, lower back pain, fatigue, and chills. Early symptoms are usually easier to manage.
How can UTIs be prevented naturally?
Staying well-hydrated, wearing breathable cotton underwear, avoiding harsh soaps, wiping front to back, urinating before and after sex, choosing showers over baths, and using bleach-free or cloth pads can help lower UTI risk.
Can herbs help with mild UTIs?
Yes. When caught early, certain herbal and natural remedies may help reduce bacteria, calm inflammation, and support urinary tract health before antibiotics are needed.
Which natural remedies are most effective for UTIs?
Common options include cranberry (prevents bacterial adhesion), D-mannose (blocks bacterial growth), goldenrod and stinging nettle (flush bacteria), bearberry/uva ursi and oregano (antimicrobial support), and usnea (traditionally used for urinary infections).
When should medical care be sought?
If symptoms persist, worsen, or include fever or severe pain, see a healthcare provider immediately. Untreated UTIs can lead to a serious kidney infection.
