Urinary tract infection - Nature Cures®

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Bacteriuria refers to the presence of bacteria in the urine. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the presence of characteristic symptoms and significant bacteriuria from the kidneys to the bladder.

Lower urinary tract infection – infection of the bladder (cystitis)
Upper urinary tract infection – infection of the kidneys (pyelitis and pyelonephritis)
Recurrent urinary tract infection – may be due to relapse or re-infection
Uncomplicated urinary tract infection – infection of the urinary tract by a usual pathogen in a person with a normal urinary tract and with normal kidney function.
Complicated urinary tract infection – occurs where anatomical, functional, or pharmacological factors predispose the person to persistent infection, recurrent infection or treatment failure, eg abnormal urinary tract.

Several micro-organisms are known to cause urinary tract infection, but the majority of infections will be produced by three organisms:

Escherichia coli
Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Proteus mirabilis

Other bacterial infections that are less common:

Klebsiellapneumoniae
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Enterococcus faecalis

Infection with less common organisms is more likely to occur in patients who have an infection elsewhere, or frequent infections, are immune suppressed or have a catheter. Organisms which may produce infection under these circumstances include:

Candida albicans
Chlamydia trachomatis
Escherichia coli
Klebsiella spp
Leptospira spp
Neisseria gonorrhoea
Proteus mirabilis
Proteus vulgaris
Pseudomonas spp
Streptococcus pyogenes
Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Treponoma pallidum

Patients, of either sex, are more likely to develop a urinary tract infection if there is an abnormality of the renal tract or if there has been recent surgical instrumentation of the renal tract.

Urinary tract infection occurs much less frequently in men at all ages. Between 52% and 90% of men with a urinary tract infection have been reported to have prostatic involvement in the infection, which can result in prostatic abscesses or prostatitis, or they are diabetics.

Antibiotic use changes the intestinal and vaginal flora and promotes colonisation of the genital tract with E. coli, that can result in urinary tract infection.

Causes of urinary tract infections for both sexes

Insufficient levels of lactobacilli (protective bacteria) particularly after 50 years of age
Bladder not emptying the bladder completely when urinating
Blood group urinary tract infection is 3-4 times more likely to occur in people with certain blood groups especially P1.
Deficiency in human beta-defensin-1 (HBD-1), a naturally occurring antibiotic.
Diabetes
Institutionalisation
Members of low-income groups
New sexual partner
Poor diet – nutrient deficiency
Presence of a catheter
Sexual activity after a period of abstinence can cause a condition called honeymoon cystitis
Sickle cell trait
Skin allergies to ingredients in soaps, vaginal creams, bubble baths, or other chemicals that are used in the genital area are at high risk for urinary tract infections. In such cases, the allergies may cause small injuries that can introduce bacteria.
Spermicide
Sexual Intercourse A sudden increase in the frequency of sexual intercourse poses a significant risk for urinary tract infection, particularly if a diaphragm is used.
Some people carry a compound called sialosyl galactosyl globoside on the surface of kidney cells, which is a highly powerful receptor for E. coli bacteria

Causes of urinary tract infection for women

Allergies Some women experience urinary tract infection as an allergic reaction to latex in condoms or to oral contraceptives.
Diaphragm The spring rim of the diaphragm may bruise the area near the bladder neck, making it susceptible to bacteria
Condoms Non lubricated condoms may injure vaginal tissue and make it vulnerable to infections. (Using a sterile water-based lubricant, such as KY jelly, may help reduce this risk. Petroleum-based lubricants should be avoided because they weaken latex condoms.)
Sexual position (e.g., with the woman on top) can contribute to the risk
Spermicide, such as nonoxynol-9, doubles or triples a women’s risk for urinary tract infection, regardless of whether it is used with a condom or diaphragm. (Spermicides also pose a risk for sexually transmitted infections and experts warn against their use)
Women who have had many children
Pregnancy. Although pregnancy does not increase the rates of asymptomatic bacteriuria, it does increase the risk that it will progress to a full-blown infection. About 2% to 11% of pregnant women have asymptomatic bacteriuria and, of those, 13% to 27% will develop a kidney infection late in their term. (It should be noted, however, that in early pregnancy, frequent urination, a common symptom of urinary tract infection, is most likely due to pressure on the bladder) All pregnant women should be tested for urinary tract infection
Genetics – immediate female relatives of women with recurrent urinary tract infection are more at risk
History of childhood urinary tract infections
Caesarean section with catheterization of the bladder
Epidural anaesthesia
Women who have had a UTI before or during pregnancy also have a higher risk of developing recurrent urinary tract infections after delivery. Approximately 25% to 33% of women who experience bacteriuria during pregnancy will have another urinary tract infection, sometimes as long as 10 to 14 years later.

NOTE: Women should never wipe themselves with toilet roll from the back to the front as this can transfer infectious bacteria from the faeces to the urethra.

Causes of urinary tract infection for older men and women

Menopause with oestrogen loss, where the walls of the urinary tract thin out, weakening the mucous membrane and reducing its ability to resist bacteria. Oestrogen loss has also been associated with reduction in certain immune factors in the vagina that help block E. coli from adhering to vaginal cells.
Bladder may lose elasticity and fail to empty completely.
Lactobacilli (protective bacteria) levels decline
Blood group P1 is associated with high levels of specific cells in the vagina and urethra that bind to a specific strain of E. coli that is resistant to normal infection-fighting mechanisms.

Symptoms of urinary tract infections

Acute confused state – particularly elderly patients.
Cloudy urine
Dysuria
Urinary frequency
Haematuria
Fever
Foul odour of urine
Nausea
Painful frequent passing of only small amounts of urine
Pyrexia
Rigors
Pubic, pelvic or loin pain
Sweating
Urgency to urinate
Urinary incontinence
Vomiting

Natural remedies for urinary tract infections

Apple cider vinegar: one teaspoon in a glass of warm water can help to eliminate the bacteria that causes urinary tract infections.
Asparagus can prevent and treat urinary tract infections.
Bicarbonate of soda: one teaspoon in a glass of water or milk can instantly treat urinary tract infections. Not to be taken by those also suffering with high blood pressure.
Cinnamon has powerful antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Coccinia leaf and root extract has antibacterial properties which can help to treat urinary tract infections. Boil 10 to 12 leaves in water for 10 to 15 minutes, strain and drink two times a day until the infection is gone.
Cranberry juice (pure unsweetened) and drinking plenty of bottled mineral water (non-carbonated) can eradicate urinary tract infections.
Dandelion tea is known to help with treating urinary tract infections. Drink three cups per day until the infection has gone.
Echinacea has powerful antibacterial and ant-virus properties which can aid in the treatment of urinary tract infections.
Brassicas, garlic, onion, olive oil and pepper can help to reduce inflammation caused by these bacterial infections.
Holy basil and neem leaves have antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis.
Phyllanthus amarus herb is very effective in naturally treating urinary tract infections.
Yellow dock has antibacterial properties which can help to treat urinary tract infections.

Juices can prevent bacteria like E Coli. from adhering to the urinary tract lining and have powerful antibacterial properties thus preventing the development of infection. The best juices are made with the following:

Blueberry juice
Cranberry
Ginger
Pomegranate juice

Raw juice therapy can successfully treat urinary tract infections use any of the above or below to make a fresh smoothies with.

NOTE: Try to ensure that they are organically grown to avoid pesticides which will harm the friendly bacteria in the guts.

Apple
Apricot,
Lemon
Carrot
Celery
Cranberry
Cucumber
Parsley
Watercress

Natural remedies for urinary system disorders

The delicate balance of the body can be affected by the slightest nutritional deficiency, imbalance of bacteria in the guts or toxicity so the diet must include good levels of fibre and prebiotic and probiotic foods to take care of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and aid digestion and the manufacturer and absorption of many nutrients and minerals. See>> Feed your friendly bacteria

Certain phytonutrients have a direct impact on the urinary system and the natural foods listed below have been chosen for their particular beneficial effect in this area.

Also foods to flush out toxins and ward off pathogenic bacteria, yeasts and viruses have been included as these can also seriously affect the absorption and manufacture of vital nutrients required by the body to take care of the urinary system.

Consuming all colours of fruits and vegetables including skins and zest where possible, everyday will ensure that all the nutrients required have been ingested. Include spices and herbs listed as often as possible, or make teas with them, as they can have powerful and beneficial effects on the urinary system.

If nothing else is consumed, but the natural foods listed here, most infections affecting the urinary system will be healed.

These ingredients together taken in a glass of warm water first thing in the morning will detoxify the blood:

Apple cider vinegar
Chilli pepper
Honey
Lemon or lime juice
Turmeric

Brine pickles are a way to store vegetable and fruits all year and gain, not only the nutrients the urinary system needs, but the addition of beneficial bacteria which the intestine needs. See> Brine pickling for health

Cod liver or krill oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, minerals and vitamins needed for a healthy urinary system. Take one high strength capsule per day.

Phyllanthus amarus herb is very effective in naturally treating cystitis and urinary tract infections.

NOTE: Do not take supplements as this will add to the strain on the kidneys.

Certain nutrients are vital for a healthy functioning urinary system. Find out the highest natural food sources of each of these essential nutrient via the links below.

Food and drinks to avoid for urinary tract infections

Almonds
Cabbage
Coffee
Cola and any other fizzy drinks.
Kale
Fatty meats, salt, sugar, sugar free products,
Food with any additives like aspartame
Plums
Processed and refined foods
Prunes
Sugar and any foods and drinks with added sugar
White flour

Salt intake is far too high in a diet of processed foods. This places a huge strain on the urinary system. If sodium (salt) levels in the blood and urine are too high, see what foods to avoid here>> Sodium

Natural antibiotic herbs for particular bacterial infections

If a test can be done to find out which actual microbe is causing the urinary tract infection, the following is a guide to what medicinal herbs can help to eradicate it.

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Agrobacterium spp.

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare

Natural remedy for the bacteria: Aeromonas hydrophila

Rough chaff (Achyranthes aspera)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Enterococcus faecalis

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Angelica root (Angelica archangelica)
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)
Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica)
Noni (Morinda citrifolia)
Peppercorns (Piper nigrum)
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Erwinia carotovora (a plant pathogen in potatoes and cyclamen which can cause pharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection or urinary tract infection in humans)

Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)
Marjoram (Origanum majorana)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Escherichia coli

Acacia (Acacia karroo)
Allspice (Pimenta dioica)
Arctic snow (Wrightia tincturia)
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
Blueberry leaves (Cyanococcus)
Cape ash bark (Ekebergia capensis)
Coconut (Cocos nucifera), coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Cryptolepis root (Cryptolepis sanguinolenta)
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Dragon’s blood (Dracaena cinnabari)
Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)
Garlic(Allium sativa)
Ginseng (Panax)
Golden rod (Solidago)
Grapefruit seed extract (Citrus paradise)
Indian nettle (Acalphya indica)
Juniper berries (Juniperus communis)
Marshmallow root (Alcea diditata, Althea officinalis)
Mucura (Petiveria alliacea)
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mustard (Brassica juncea)
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Oregano(Origanum compactum)
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
Peppercorns (Piper nigrum)
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Phyllanthus amarus (Phyllanthus niruri)
Quince (Chaenomeles)
Radishes (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. Sativus)
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Savoury (summer savoury Satureja hortensis, winter savoury Satureja montana)
Sour plum (Ximenia caffra)
Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Water lily (Nymphaea caerulea, Nymphaea nouchali)
Wisteria (Bolusanthus speciosus)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Klebsiella (urinary tract infection, bladder infections, prostatitis)

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Golden rod (Solidago
Pyllanthus amarus (Phyllanthus niruri)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Micrococcus luteus (causes pneumonia, septic shock and urinary tract infections)

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Peppercorns (Piper nigrum)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Proteus mirabilis (causes urinary tract infection, bladder, prostatitis)

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Garlic(Allium sativa)
Golden rod (Solidago)
Phyllanthus amarus (Phyllanthus niruri)
Zhi mu (Anemarrhena asphodeloides)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Proteus vulgaris

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Zhi mu (Anemarrhena asphodeloides)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Pseudomonas spp. (causes various infections including bacteraemia, lung infections, pneumonia and urinary tract infection)

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Arctic snow (Wrightia tincturia)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)
Garlic(Allium sativa)
Juniper berries (Juniperus communis)
Mucura (Petiveria alliacea)
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mullaca (Physalis angulate)
Tarragon (Artemisia dranunculus)
Turkey berry (Solanum torvum)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Pseudomona aeruginosa (causes blood, ear, eye and lung infections, pneumonia, skin rashes, urinary tract infection)

Arctic snow (Wrightia tincturia)
Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)
Garlic(Allium sativa)
Juniper berries (Juniperus communis)
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus
Moringa (Moringa oleifera)
Mucura (Petiveria alliacea)
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mullaca (Physalis angulate)
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Tarragon (Artemisia dranunculus)
Turkey berry (Solanum torvum)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Staphylococcus pyogenes citreus

Arctic snow(Wrightia tincturia)

If cause of infection is the bacteria:

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Staphylococcus saprophyticus

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum, Eugenia caryophyllata)
Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mullaca (Physalis angulate)

Natural remedies for the bacteria: Streptococcus faecalis

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum, Eugenia caryophyllata)
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifoli)
Honeysuckle (Lonicera pericylmenum, Lonicera japonica)
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mullaca (Physalis angulate)
Perilla leaves (Perilla frutescens)
Radishes (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. Sativus)

How to naturally treat water retention

Eating the correct foods to gain a natural diuretic and water balancing affect in the body will benefit the whole system as they also contain many other essential nutrients but have no adverse side effects. Medications put a strain on the urinary system. Natural food remedies which can aid as a diuretic, reduce water retention and flush out toxins are:

Abuta is an Amazonian medicinal herb that acts a good diuretic.
Alfalfa seed sprouts – once a day – highly nutritional, assists in weight loss, purifies and thins the blood.
Apple cider vinegar cleanses the liver, kidneys and bladder and prevent infections of this area. Take one tablespoon per day.
Artichokes are a natural diuretic.
Asparagus contains asparigine – a chemical alkaloid that boosts kidney performance improving waste removal from the body
Banana one a day to balances sodium and potassium in the blood – tablet diuretics reduce potassium levels
Beetroot nourishes kidneys, lowers blood pressure, a natural diuretic, attacks floating body fats and fatty deposits.
Berries possess powerful antioxidants which cleanse the blood.
Black currants are a diuretic with a high potassium level.
Black pepper corns grind onto everything, transports the nutrients to different parts of body, reduces congestion in the lungs
Blueberries prevent the E.coli bacteria from adhere to the urinary tract lining and have powerful antibacterial properties thus preventing the development of infection.
Brussel sprouts help in stimulating the kidneys and pancreas and results in better cleansing of cells.
Carrots provide nourishment for the kidneys and bladder and reduce inflammation of the urethra.
Celery nourishes the kidneys and reduces blood pressure.
Chives are valuable as a blood cleanser and exercise a very strong diuretic action however they should not be consumed at the same time as drinking beer as this can cause bladder irritation.
Cinnamon has powerful antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria that can infect the kidneys and urinary tract.
Cranberries prevent the E.coli bacteria from adhere to the urinary tract lining and has powerful antibacterial properties thus preventing the development of infection.
Cucumbers are rich in sulphur and silicon that stimulate the kidneys into better removal of uric acid.
Dandelion: Four cups a day with one teaspoon of honey. Pour hot, but not boiling water, from the kettle on a teaspoon of the leaves in a cup and drink three times a day. Dandelion is a natural diuretic. It stimulates the removal of waste/toxins via the bile and the urine and spares the potassium that is otherwise lost with conventional diuretics.
Echinacea, grapefruit seed extract and wormwood taken together has very effective antibiotic properties against the enterococcus, staphylococcus and other bacteria that can infect the urinary tract and kidneys. Grapefruit seed extract is made from the seeds and connecting tissues of the fruit.
Fig is oxidant, laxative, diuretic, digestible and a blood cleanser.
Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil improves blood flow.
Garlic is a natural diuretic food that also helps with the breakdown of fat.
Ginger lowers blood pressure and purifies and thins the blood. It also prevents the E.coli bacteria from adhere to the urinary tract lining and has powerful antibacterial properties thus preventing the development of infection.
Green tea: Four cups a day, natural diuretic, aids in weight loss and contains amazing amount of nutrients.
Holy basil and neem leaves have powerful antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis bacteria that can cause kidney and urinary tract infections.
Horseradish speeds up the metabolism and cleans the kidneys and acts as a powerful diuretic.
Hydrangea can strengthen the urinary tract and help regulate its function.
Lemon is a natural diuretic which can also regulate heart pressure and dissolve certain types of kidney and bladder stones.
Lingonberries have powerful properties that can fight urinary tract infection.
Mango is detoxifying and diuretic.
Melon is alkalising, mineralising, oxidant and diuretic and helps control heart rate and blood pressure offering protection against stroke and coronary heart diseases.
Oats contain silica – a natural diuretic.
Okra helps with passing waste and toxins from the intestines and provides smooth transit through the colon.
Onions (raw) speed up the metabolism.
Papayas are diuretic and laxative.
Parsley supports the kidneys, bladder and urethra and purifies the blood.
Peaches are diuretic, depurative and detoxifying.
Pomegranate juice prevents the E.coli bacteria from adhere to the urinary tract lining and has powerful antibacterial properties thus preventing the development of infection.
Psyllium husks help to expel water and waste, stops constipation, protects the colon and aids digestion of nutrients.
Pumpkin has diuretic properties that does not irritate the kidneys.
Pumpkin seeds good for bladder and urinary problems, increases good cholesterol, nourishes the eyes.
Radish (raw) especially daikon speeds up the metabolism, increases removal of waste and protects against high blood pressure and heart disease.
Rye bread, crackers, flour and flakes aids digestion, is high in fibre and acts as a diuretic.
Strawberries are a traditional diuretic that can thin the blood, improve blood flow and does not cause intestinal bleeding like aspirin.
Tea: Four cups a day acts as a natural diuretic.
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C that aid the metabolism and release of water from the kidney to flush out waste.
Turmeric: Half a teaspoon in warm water or sauces or on meals everyday – lowers blood pressure and purifies and thins the blood.
Uva Ursi is a natural diuretic that strengthens the urinary system and eliminates excess fluids.
Watercress is a natural diuretic.
Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.

Naturally diuretic herbs

Bissy nut
Blue vervain
Dandelion
Parsley
Fennel
Nettles
Corn silk
Hawthorn berries
Horsetail
Juniper
Moringa
Psyllium husks
Saffron
Sarsaparilla
Uva ursi

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