Urinary tract infections are considered the second most common type of infection in the body. Men and women of any age can get them, although women are at higher risk due to their shorter urethra. Now, are there infusions to treat cystitis?
Natural medicine has been using the infusion of different herbs for hundreds of years to relieve bothersome symptoms. Of course, if the symptoms persist, it is advisable to go to the doctor to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is a cystitis?
Cystitis is a disease caused by bacteria that can affect the urethra and ureters as well as the kidneys and urinary tract. Some conditions, such as pregnancy, diabetes or other diseases increase the risk of suffering from this discomfort.
The normal flow of urine goes from the kidneys to the bladder through the ureters, and then the fluid is eliminated through the urinary tract. This unidirectional expulsion of liquids helps to eliminate bacteria and protect the body from infection. However, sometimes the defenses fail and the bacteria affect some part of the urinary tract; usually the urinary tract.
In the event that this discomfort does not receive treatment, the infection could travel through the urinary tract, even reaching the kidneys. For this reason, in the presence of symptoms, it is necessary to start the antibiotic treatment that the doctor considers necessary.
Symptoms of cystitis
In general, cystitis causes some pressure in the lower region of the abdomen, in addition to changes in the color and odor of the urine that is excreted, which can be cloudy. On the other hand, the urge to urinate is usually frequent and generates a sense of urgency that forces one to go to the bathroom where pain or burning is felt when urinating and, usually, only a few drops are excreted. In some cases, there may be fever, tremors and extreme tiredness.
6 infusions to treat cystitis
Although, as we have already explained, professional consultation is recommended, there are some infusions that have been used for hundreds of years to relieve the discomfort caused by cystitis. Next, we analyze them one by one.
Green Tea
The famous green tea cannot be missing from our selection of infusions to treat cystitis. Its diuretic effect is famous and, in fact, it is one of the reasons why it is recommended for inclusion in diets to lose weight, since it favors the elimination of excess liquids.
Heat the water to between 70ºC and 80ºC and infuse the quantities recommended by the manufacturer for no more than five minutes to prevent the green tea from becoming bitter.
Horsetail infusion
The tasty horsetail has been used since time immemorial to treat urinary tract infections, according to different investigations. In fact, the results of several clinical trials have indicated that drinking horsetail tea increases the amount and frequency of urination. Therefore, its diuretic properties are effective.
In addition, it is believed that it has an anti-inflammatory effect that could help improve the general condition of those who suffer from an infection. However, studies have not confirmed this action 100%.
Make your cup by letting a tablespoon of horsetail decoction for five minutes. Then strain the drink and enjoy!
Boldo infusion
Experts in natural medicine maintain that boldo has diuretic properties that would be ideal for eliminating excess fluids. This action would help the bacteria that cause cystitis to be eliminated naturally.
On the other hand, this herb contains polyphenols, components with antioxidant activity that help improve the immune system, something necessary after suffering from an infection.
To prepare it, infuse 4 grams of boldo for every cup of very hot water and let stand for 5 minutes. Strain and drink.
Nettle infusion
Nettle combines diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent home remedy against cystitis. Although there are not many scientific studies on this infusion, it is commonly used to promote urination in cases of benign prismatic hyperplasia.
In addition, its anti-inflammatory function could counteract the pain caused by the infection, thus relieving general discomfort; while its antimicrobial effect would combat the presence of bacteria.
Heat the water until it is very hot and add a tablespoon of dried nettle leaves for each cup. Let stand 7 minutes, sweeten with honey and drink.
Parsley infusion
This infusion is usually recommended by grandmothers who say that it should be prepared with fresh parsley. Drinking a cup helps stimulate urine production and, as we saw at the beginning of the article, the excretion of urine allows the elimination of bacteria. More studies in humans would be necessary to corroborate its effectiveness.
How is parsley infused ? Very easy: put two teaspoons per cup of boiled water. Wait five minutes for the flavors to extract and voila!
Lemon infusion
Lemon has proven antimicrobial properties that would help eliminate bacteria that cause urine infection. To take advantage of them, use the skin, which is where they are concentrated.
Wash the lemon well, peel it and remove the white part of the skin to avoid its bitterness. Decoction the lemon skin for 5 minutes, wait for the temperature to drop a little and drink with or without honey.
Now that you know which are the best infusions for urinary tract infections, you have no excuses not to try them when you start to feel the symptoms. And, of course, do not forget to consult your doctor in case you need antibiotics.