Home remedies for urinary tract infection (UTI)

A urinary tract infection (UTI), also called bladder infection, is indicated by frequent urination and painful burning sensation during or after urinating.

Women are more affected by UTIs. A history of diabetes, pregnancy, or less water intake can increase the risk of UTI.

Remedies for UTI:

Cranberries: Have 1 cup daily until you feel relieved of the symptoms.

• Cranberries are at the top of the list of remedies for urinary tract infections.
• They are equipped with a natural anti-microbial property – proanthocyanidins that fights with harmful micro-organisms and keeps the body healthy. 
• Prevents bacteria from spreading to the urethra walls. They also have mild anti-biotic effects.
• The anti-bacterial effects of cranberry juice can be present in the urine for hours after the last intake.
• It is recommended to have pure cranberry juice – about half a glass daily (until one feels better). This quantity is enough to fight the infection and provide relief. 

Blueberries: Have 1 cup daily until you feel relieved of the symptoms of UTI.

Blueberries are another member of the “berry” family known for relieving the symptoms of UTI.  They contain bacteria-inhibiting properties, thus regular consumption of blueberries helps prevent bacterial growth.

• Drink a glass of blueberry juice both in the morning and at night, for faster relief.
• You can also mix 2-3 tbsp blueberries in your cranberry juice.

• 

Apple cider vinegar:

Vinegar contains potassium and other enzymes that are helpful in treating UTI, and in preventing the bacteria from multiplying. Apple cider vinegar also contains active compounds that act as antibiotics.

• Add 2 or 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water 
• Have it twice a day (with a gap of at least 4-5 hours) to get rid of urinary tract infections.

Baking Soda:

Baking soda helps to neutralize the acidity of urine. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water. Drink it twice a day (with a gap of 4-5 hours) until there is relief from UTI. 

Drink Plenty of Water:

Adequate water intake, more than normal, is essential to keep the body well hydrated.

• Generally, a person suffering from UTI tries not to drink much water as it is painful to urinate during the infection. Don’t do that! Must drink 4 liters (about 8 – 10 glasses) of water every day to help flush out the bacteria. 
• Additionally, you can also apply a hot-water-compress on your lower abdomen to ease the burning sensation when urinating.

Pineapples:   2 Cups / day

Pineapples are a rich source of bromelain that helps reduce the inflammation caused by a urinary tract infection. It also contains Vitamin C that boosts your body’s ability to fight the infection. 

• Eating a cupful of pineapples regularly can help prevent the recurrence of UTIs.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C boosts the immune system and protects against many infections. It is present in all citrus fruits, papaya, guava, watermelon, and kiwi.

Diuretic Herbs: Add a small piece of any herb (or a pinch of the herb in powder form) to 1cup of water, and boil it for 2 minutes.

• Have this concoction twice daily until you feel relieved from UTI symptoms.

Parsely, dandelion, and horsetail are herbs that possess diuretic properties that reduce the impact of UTI by increasing the frequency of urination thus flushing out the bacteria.

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