Urinary tract infection can really be painful. It’s annoying and frustrating as we may suffer from burning sensations, cramping, and frequent trips to the bathroom. Some of us may choose to take antibiotics to quickly find relief from all the symptoms associated with UTIs. However, long-term use of these medications can severely affect our health. Fortunately, there several natural home remedies that we can try to treat the condition – and one of them is having some cups of herbal teas.
Horsetail And Dandelion Tea
When it comes to soothing UTIs, horsetail works wonders as it contains tannins (an astringent found in bitter plant matter), which has the ability to tighten the inflamed epithelial tissues while its flavonoids (metabolites in plant matter) help calm spasms that accompany a UTI. In addition to this, it can also thoroughly filter through the kidneys and increase the production of urine thereby removing toxins and bacteria in the urinary tract. Meanwhile, dandelion works as a diuretic and stimulates the kidney and bladder.
In making this herbal tea, we need to place 1-2 tablespoons of dried horsetail and 1 teaspoon of dried dandelion in a mug. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil and pour over the herbs. Cover and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink 2 times a day. Honey can be added for additional taste and benefits.
Goldenseal Tea
Goldenseal is rich in substances like hydrastine and berberine, which have an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect. Some studies show that it can help can prevent some bacteria, especially E. Coli from binding to urinary tract walls, and thus they can be more easily eliminated.
Simply have 1 teaspoon of goldenseal root powder in a cup. Bring 250 ml of water to a boil and pour over the cup. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Mix and strain the mixture. Let it cool down and take two to three times a day.
Marshmallow Root Tea
Marshmallow root works by inhibiting bacterial growth and cleansing the bladder. Consumption of it in tea form can help soothe the urinary system. It is a diuretic (it increases the elimination of urine) which will in turn help to flush out the bacteria.
Make fresh marshmallow root tea by adding a cup of boiling water to 2 teaspoons of dried root. Some honey may be added. Drink 2-3 cups of tea throughout the day.
Corn Silk Tea
Corn silk tea has a good concentration of tannins, terpenoids, and alkaloids which are responsible for its antimicrobial properties that help reduce the activities of microbial bacteria in the body. It also works as a diuretic that eliminates the microorganisms from the urinary tract system.
Place a handful of corn silk in a cup with boiling water and let steep for five to ten minutes. Strain the mixture and let it cool down. Drink this tea two to three times a day.
Bearberry Tea
Bearberry leaves contain a substance known as arbutin which possesses a potent antimicrobial effect. It can help eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi that are responsible for most cases of urinary tract infections. It also works as a diuretic, thus keeping the urinary tract clean and free from microorganisms.
To make a tea, soak 3 grams of dried leaves in 5 ounces of water for 12 hours—then strain the tea and drink it three to four times each day.
