- Dandelions are Wonderful Herbal Diuretics - Dichohecho
A urinary tract infection can be a very uncomfortable condition. The entire system is subject to an infection when resistance is lowered, usually from lifestyle habits. A poor diet, lack of cleansing water and foods, chronic constipation, and the use of antibiotics, can all lower the body's defenses. Natural diuretic herbs promote the release of fluids, encouraging the process of elimination, so the body can return to a healthy, normal state.
How Herbal Diuretics Work
Herbal remedies for a urinary tract infection are effective at helping the body excrete waste, toxins, and bacteria. The specific action of diuretic herbs is to increase the flow of urine. While in itself, this is a simple function, it is the foundation for recreating harmony for the kidneys, bladder, and entire system.
The urinary system is the area of the body where water and salt levels are regulated, the acid-alkaline balance is maintained, where nutrients, water and other beneficial compounds are reabsorbed into the body, and waste is eliminated. An upset here can lead to discord in other systems, effecting the entire body. While it is still very important to consult a physician in the case of an infection, herbal diuretics can be greatly beneficial for treating and preventing a urinary tract infection.
Effective Herbs for a Urinary Tract Infection
All of these herbs are diuretics. Not only does each one safely encourage the cleansing process, but they all have additional properties for treating the urinary tract as well.
- Dandelion is the best herbal diuretic. It is extremely effective, gentle, and safe. While synthetic diuretics deplete the body of valuable nutrients, dandelion actually replenishes. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium.
- Cleavers has excellent diuretic properties, but it also acts as an alternative, helping to cleanse the blood of toxins. It therefore has a double detoxification effect. Cleavers herb is also a mild astringent.
- Corn silk is a particularly useful urinary tract infection herbal remedy in cases of irritation. It is a demulcent herb, meaning that it has a soothing effect on tissue.
- Yarrow is a diuretic, but more importantly, it is a powerful antiseptic for the urinary system. This herb will help fight off any infection.
- Celery seeds contains the volatile oil apiol, which makes them an effective antiseptic. The crushed seeds do have diuretic properties, which are most potent when taken in conjunction with dandelion.
- Plantain acts both as a fluid cleanser, as well as an astringent. It is useful in cases where blood is present in the urine.
How to Use Natural Diuretic Herbs
To treat a urinary tract infection with herbs, make an herbal infusion from one, or more of the herbal remedies listed above. Use one to three teaspoons total, of dried herbs, infused in one cup of boiling water for ten minutes. Drink one or two cups of the tea each day. An herbal tincture is also effective. Take a dropperful in juice or water once or twice a day. Be sure to also drink plenty of water and fresh juices, particularly cranberry juice, to help the body heal.
Using herbs for a urinary tract infection is an ideal way to attain total healing. As symptoms could indicate a larger problem, always consult a physician as well.
Sources:
Hoffmann, David. "The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies." (Element Books, 1996).
Balch, Phyllis, CNC. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition." (The Penguin Group, 2006).
Brenna Coleman - Brenna is a freelance writer, mother and student of astrology. Like many writers, she has an array of interests with natural healing, the ...
