More than 50% of all women have experienced this at some point in their lives. Men can experience UTIs too, though it’s much less common for them. For women, the Urethra (the orifice/tube that urine passes out from the body) is located very close to the anus, a place where bacteria often passes or breeds. Hence, women are advised to wipe from “front to back” after both urination and defecation.
Recently, more and more women have begun having recurrent urinary tract infection which is often treated with multiple courses of antibiotics. However, there are many clinically-proven natural options that can effectively manage this condition.
Causes/Risk Factors
-Bacteria from the anus
-Sex can introduce bacteria to the Urethra
-STDs
-Poor hygiene
Types of UTIs:
Bladder Infections (Cystitis)
Kidney Infections (Acute Pyelonephritis)
Urethra Infections (Urethritis)
Common Symptoms:
-A strong urge to urinate
-A constant need to urinate
-Passing small amounts of urine, frequently
-Foul smelling Urine
-Pain in the Pelvic region
Depending on the type of UTI, you may also experience any of the following:
-Fever (Common in Acute Pyelonephritis, fever may exceed 103 degrees F.)
-Nausea & Vomiting
-Flank pain
-Bloody urine (mainly in Cystitis)
-Discharge (mainly in Urethritis)
-Burning Urination
Remedies (Evidence-Based)
– Moringa
Moringa is known as a nutrient-dense superfood and an anti-aging herbal remedy that possesses anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In clinical research, Moringa has proven to be useful in various conditions such as asthma, breast milk production, and diabetes. In one clinical trial, Moringa was able to effectively treat urinary tract infections (see study).
– Tribulus Terrestris (Gokshura)
Tribulus has gained popularity in the west as an aphrodisiac as well as a nitric-oxide booster and is frequently used for improving performance in bodybuilding. Pharmacologically speaking, Tribulus (when used correctly) is also a potent diuretic and is often included in various clinically-tested herbal formulas for treating the urinary system. In one clinical trial, Tribulus aka Gokshura was found to be highly effective in treating urinary tract infections (see study). Keep in mind that this study utilizes Tribulus in a dose as per Ayurvedic standards and not the regular standardized supplements that are often sold at stores.
D-Mannose is a simple sugar with a structure that is similar to that of glucose and is commonly found in fruits such as apples and cranberries It is useful in both the treatment of UTI’s and is also used for other physiological processes in the body. While the majority of research on D-Mannose is fairly new, clinical trials have already demonstrated its efficacy in treating UTI’s (see study).
Additional Info:
When experiencing a UTI:
-Don’t suppress the urge to urinate
-Reduce caffeine
-Avoid Alcohol
-Avoid sex
To prevent a UTI:
-Don’t suppress the urge to urinate
-Wash your genital area before sex, and urinate soon after sex
-Shower, rather than having a bath in a tub
-Use unscented and unbleached toilet paper and tissues
-Keep alcohol and caffeine to a minimum
(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)
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by Dr. Nishal R.
Copyright 
2016