Bladder Infections
Natural Remedies

Natural Remedies for a Bladder Infection (UTI)

Thyme Essential Oil

1 User Review
4 star (1) 
  100%


Posted by Lauren (NY) on 07/15/2021
4 out of 5 stars

For a UTI, I usually take olive leaf and turmeric caps as per my post under those headings. When I find that my UTI is being a little extra stubborn I draw a shallow bath, but a little olive oil on a washcloth along with some thyme essential oil, with maybe a little tea tree. I feel that the thyme is the most potent. It is important to dilute these with the olive oil. I then press this around the area gently and push out the bacteria into the bath. This really helps to tame the infection or get rid of the remainder of it.


Turpentine

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%


Posted by Katie (Bellingham, Wa) on 07/11/2014

Last weekend I had another urinary tract infection. I've had them off and on since I was young. I'm 65 now. It was worse than usual. I had to urinate every 10 or 15 minutes. I thought I wasn't going to get any sleep that night. Then I remembered turpentine. I put about 1/2 teaspoon of sugar on a spoon and filled up the teaspoon with turpentine. In less than an hour I was sleeping and all okay by the morning. Of course, be drinking lots of water too. Anyone who has uterine tract infections knows lots of water is important.

Replied by Katie
(Bellingham, Wa)
05/16/2015
5 out of 5 stars

I note that no one has noticed this turpentine treatment. I just want to say I got this Uti again last week. I took one dose of turpentine again and again I was all good in about 2 to 3 hours.

Replied by Caron
(Port Orchard, Wa)
05/29/2015
5 out of 5 stars

@Katie...I am so glad to find someone else who has discovered the healing powers of turpentine. I woke up this morning with an UTI and started drinking a lot of water right away, then remembered turpentine. Took 3/4 teaspoon on a heaping teaspoonful of granulated sugar and the symptoms are just about gone. Turpentine is great for so many health problems. It used to be used all the time in the past and worked so well, it is now considered a poison. Not true.


Urinate After Sex

3 User Reviews
5 star (3) 
  100%


Posted by Georgis (Eastern, Sd) on 02/21/2013
5 out of 5 stars

I used to get UTI after intercourse then I read somewhere if you go urinate afterwards this cleans the pathway. Ever since I read this I have not had an UTI.


Urinate After Sex
Posted by LJ (Nevada City, California) on 10/02/2007
5 out of 5 stars

First I want to say, I started taking ACV orally and topically after stumbling on this site for my acne, and it really helped!! So thanks. As for Urinary Tract Infections. I find that peeing and cleaning yourself after sex is the BEST CURE. Before I knew this I got UTI's very frequently, and now I practically never do. Last week, unfortunately, I got a UTI and I think it was because I waited too long to pee after intercourse. Do it within 10 minutes!! Don't let the bacteria settle in!! Your urine will kill those pesky bacteria!! I started taking cranberry pills and drinking tons of water as soon as I knew I had an infection, and it helped. I have read to avoid coffee, alcohol, and sex while you have a UTI, and I believe this is true. I had sex again when I thought my UTI was almost gone, and it flared up within a few hours!!! I try to eat lots of asparagus when I have a UTI, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, coffee, sugary drinks, and take ACV in tea twice a day. My UTI went away after a few days, though not as fast as I thought it would. But, I did break a couple of rules a couple times (had drinks with a friend, had sex with my bf, etc.) So take care of yourself, and avoid the temptation!!! Don't let the UTI spread to your kidneys, as that can be very dangerous. If you feel pain in your lower back with a UTI, that could indicate infection in the kidneys, and I would recommend seeing your doctor asap!!


Urinate After Sex
Posted by Anonymous (USA)
5 out of 5 stars

I used to get bladder infections until I got the habit of going pee after sex instead of falling to sleep for the night. You don't need to rush out of bed to pee - but empty the bladder before falling off to sleep.


Uva Ursi

5 User Reviews
5 star (5) 
  100%


Posted by Simay (West Tisbury) on 10/15/2017
5 out of 5 stars

I suffer from UTIs virtually every time I have sex. I just started dating someone new, so that has resulted in my getting a UTI about once a week for a few weeks now. In the past I tried taking D-Mannose and drinking unsweetened cranberry juice but that never helped. I used to take baking soda just to ease the burning sensation but of course that wasn't a cure either. A few weeks ago I went through an emotionally stressful time, during which I also developed a UTI that spread to my left kidney and I had to go to the ER and take a round of antibiotics, which I never want to resort to.

I had read about uva ursi in the past but there was never much solid feedback out it so I disregarded it for a long time. After the kidney episode, I was even more desperate to find an herbal remedy since it seems this issue is not going away for me. So I decided to give uva ursi a try.

I purchased two ounces of the dried leaves at my local health food store. I went home and weighed out 1 ounce on my herb scale and put it into a quart sized mason jar. Then I poured boiling water over the leaves and filled the jar to the top. I let it steep for twenty minutes. Then I strained out 1 cup of the infusion and drank it down.

PRAISE UVA URSI! It took away the burning sensation it just over an hour! I couldn't believe it! I mean I really couldn't believe it, it was just too good to be true. I continued to drink the rest of the quart of infusion over the rest of the day and the next day. I was so happy that when I got another UTI I was worried it wouldn't work the same as it did the first time. BUT IT DID! I have now gotten three UTIs in the past three weeks or so and have used uva ursi in the same way each time and gotten the sams results. The burning sensation is completely eliminated in an hour or so. I have only had to drink the 1 quart of infusion over a two day period each time and by then the UTI is resolved.

I encourage you to try uva ursi infusion if you suffer from recurrent UTIs. I know there are some warnings out there about prolonged use being harmful to the liver but I only have to take it for about two days to get relief. Truthfully, I only have to drink 1 cup to get relief, but I drink a whole quart over a two day period to ensure full recovery.


Uva Ursi
Posted by Ladyb (Usa) on 10/10/2013
5 out of 5 stars

I wanted to share my positive experience with Uva Ursi as well and hope it helps someone else!

It's been over a year now, but for a while I was having a lot of trouble with bladder infections. I'm talking rounds and rounds of antibiotics until finally I had to go through a cystoscopy which wound up costing me thousands of dollars. And none of it helped! I just ended up with other problems from the side-effects of the antibiotics.

I had been also been trying the usual cranberry, ACV, salt water, etc- no help. Alka seltzer helped temporarily to feel better but will not cure it.

So, finally a urologist identified my infections were caused by staph. I had stumbled on using d-mannose and tried it- but it never helped either- which made sense because that's only effective if your infection is caused by e-coli.

So finally I found Uva Ursi- not a whole lot of feedback but came up a lot and I decided I had nothing to lose. Finally I found something that cleared it up!

Some keys, don't take it too long- follow instructions on the bottle- that's what I did. Drink lots of fluids because it's diuretic and will help flush out the infection.

Now I keep some on hand, I've found one with a blend of complementary herbs for bladder/kidney health and at the first sign of infection I take it and usually don't need more than a day or two worth of doses. This past week was a little worse it seems, have been taking it for a week this time, but today I found that once again it's done the trick and I feel back to normal.

Also, to balance out your system again I've found the probiotic for women in the pink bottle to be invaluable and a life-saver! I was regularly taking it and have been feeling a little off so have started taking that again as well.

Replied by Pauline
(Pembrokeshire)
07/24/2016

LadyB. I was delighted to read your post. I am just like you! D Mannose did not work because mine is not E. coli. How much Uva Ursi do you use, and can you use it long-term to prevent further UTI's? Also, which probiotic do you use. I am in the UK so wondered if I could get it here.

Many thanks, Pauline


Uva Ursi
Posted by Jfrost231 (Hackettstown, New Jersey, United States) on 06/03/2012

Hi, I currently have a bladder infection that i've had for about two weeks, and you know how bladder infections are, they are stubborn. I've tried a lot of things so far, I've been taking high doses of vitamin c, been drinking lots of water and cranberry juice, I've taken apple cider vinegar for about 2 weeks straight and even though it makes urination less painful, it hasn't cured my bladder infection. I've also been taking acidophilus, echinacea, and a cranberry supplement. So none of this is CURING my infection, I need to get rid of it, I don't have the money or insurance for a doctor's visit and antibiotics.

So I heard about uva ursi, and it sounds like a good idea. But my mom who's a nurse told me that it can be dangerous taking in high doses, so is it safe to take the capsules up to 4 times a day? I don't plan on doing this past a week.

Replied by Timh
(Louisville, Ky, Usa)
06/04/2012
2073 posts

Jfrost231, Uva Ursi is definitely the master herb for Bladder/UTI infections, but as you are advised cannot be used in excess or by pregnant or nursing women. Also do not take Uva Ursi w/ (at the same moment or hr) vit-C or Cranberry as it decreases effectiveness. About 5 days use will provide much relief and by that time side effects of vasoconstriction will begin w/ itching or painful veins or possibly numbness in hands and feet. Must discontinue for at least 2 weeks before resuming (if necessary).

Another nutrient extremely beneficial for Bladder/UTI infection is the simple sugar D-Mannose. And for your insufficient immune response, Vit-A & Zinc at recommended dosages daily for 1 month or more.


Uva Ursi
Posted by Meadow (Tampa, Florida, Usa) on 03/01/2011
5 out of 5 stars

I have not seen the herb Uva Ursi mentioned to help clear women's bladder infections. Uva Ursi leaf (an herbal dietary supplement) is effective with stubborn lower urinary tract infections and kidney (pyelonephritis) infections. Uva Ursi has antimicrobial activity. Uva Ursi contains a glycoside called arbutin, which has an antiseptic effect on the membranes of the urinary tract. As a natural diuretic this herb drains excess water from cells and promotes an antiseptic effect on the kidneys.

It is best to take Uva Ursi leaf as directed on the bottle, with a large glass of water and the juice of half a lemon, lime or baking soad. Fresh lemon juice has alkalizing and anti-bacterial properties. Bacteria can not live an an alkaline environment. Uva Ursi and a cranberry supplement will work in synergy to clear the infection. The enclosed link is a non profit women's health website that includes:

Replied by Granny Laura
(Waco, Tx Usa)
03/02/2011

I have also used Uva Ursi in the past for Candida. It can affect the liver so be sure to get plenty of Vit C as well. By plenty I mean a lot. I normally take at least 6000 mg of Vit C divided into at least 2 doses. Start little w/the Vit C and work your way up to larger doses. Dr Linus Pauling recommeded 18 to 20 mg a day just for health maintainance. You will definitely get diahrrea if you try to take large amounts of Vit C if you aren't used to that large a dose.

Replied by Francisca
(Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France)
03/02/2011

18 mg to 20 mg a day of Vit. C is very little, are you sure this is the right amount Linus Pauling advised? I am waiting for one of his books so I have no idea..... But the advised amount is 60 mg which is also very little, even if you are healthy!

Replied by Granny Laura
(Waco, Tx Usa)
03/03/2011

Francisca, My mistake! Thanks for noticing so I can correct it. I meant to say 18 to 20 grams of vitamin C, not milligrams. Actually I've taken 6-9 or more grams a day for years. The only side effect I've noticed is that I look 15-20 years younger than I am. I can handle that kind of side effect just fine.


Uva Ursi
Posted by Chamain (New Orleans, LA) on 03/04/2007
5 out of 5 stars

I used to get at least 2 bladder infections per year, and the only cure was taking antibiotics. (I had tried cranberry juice and ever other nature "cure"). I discovered uva ursi while at Whole Foods and tried it. Oh my goodness!! It's been 10 years and no bladder infection---that means no antibiotics for 10 years now! The minute I feel an infection coming on, I go for the uva ursi and it goes away!

Replied by London
(Sandusky, Ohio)
08/11/2008
5 out of 5 stars

UVA URSI WORKS!!! This supplement will cure the most stubborn bladder infection. I tried everything you buy at the store, and tons of cranberry supplements and juices. Nothing helped me. Uva Ursi was the only thing that worked and worked quickly. 2 caps at night and 2 caps in the morning. $4 for a bottle at the store.


Vitamin C

6 User Reviews
5 star (6) 
  100%


Posted by Aviva (Israel, Kiryay Ono) on 07/20/2016
5 out of 5 stars

I think I got this bladder infection by not drinking enough water. Anyhow, it was bad, had to go to bathroom every few minutes and hardly anything got out. I understood it was inflammation of the urinary tract. I put some probiotic yogurt over there and it gave some small relief. Then I drank a big glass ACV and a bit later I took 1500 mg vitamin C. All this began in the evening and going to bed I could not sleep because of the pain and urgency to pee. 10 minutes after the vitamin C I fell asleep for a few hours. The next day I took 3000 mg vitamin C and so the day after. I also tried to drink a lot of water. That's it. Last time it happened I took antibiotics.


Vitamin C
Posted by Elizabeth (Nashville, Tn) on 07/16/2013
5 out of 5 stars

I have a history of recurring uti's so when I felt one coming on 6 days ago, I came straight to Earthclinic. My symtpoms were urgency. Burning urethra and tenderness in the bladder, although I rarely have burning upon urination. I read all the yea's for the ACV and I know that most bacteria doesn't like the acidity, so I gave it a shot. This is what I took:

1) 2 tablespoons of ACV with the "mother" mixed in with some water. I would down this like a shot and then chase it with a glass of water. I did this every 3 hours or so during the day. I noticed immediate relief of the burning sensation and the urgency would improve.. Also, it's a diuretic so I could void easier.

2) 5,000 mg of Vitamin C a couple times a day. It's also good to take a dose right before bedtime to keep the urine acidic during the night. I crushed the tablets with a garlic press and put them in a glass with a pinch of baking soda. Mix a little water so it fizzes and drink it like a shot. Follow with a full glass of water. I had around 12,000-15,000 mg a day.

3) I also take oregano oil pills and turmeric on a daily basis, so I continued this as well. Although, honestly, I think the biggest help was taking the ACV and Vitamin C to change my pH.

I did this for 4 days. You have to listen to your body... If I felt like it was too much, I would skip a dose or two. Also, you have to drink water until your eyeballs are swimming, literally. Flush all that bad crap out!

I went and got a dipstick test yesterday and it was clean!!! My Dr. said to keep doing what I was doing (I had told her about the ACV and mega-dosing Vitamin C) She said they change the pH of the urine and the bacteria can't thrive in it.

I'm still taking vitamin C, around 5,000 a day for a few days, to make sure the infection is gone and starting back on my probiotics. I do feel lots better and hope this can help someone!!!

Replied by Timh
(Louisville, Ky, USA)
07/17/2013
2073 posts

Elizabeth: ACV is acidic but produces alkalinity by conversion in the body. Do be careful of too much vit-c as can cause kidney stones.

Another effective protocol is D-Mannose (day 1), Cranberry (day two), Uvi Ursi (day 3).

Replied by Elizabeth
(Nashville, Tn)
07/17/2013

I wouldn't recommend a high dosage on a regular basis. I only megadose when I'm sick and I always make sodium absorbate, which reduces the acidity. It's also very important to drink plenty of water. What your body doesn't use in 30 minutes is flushed out via the bladder. Megadosing Vitamin C helped me to overcome 2 months of pertussis this last winter. Two rounds of antibiotics and 3 packs of prednisone didn't touch it but once I added the Vitamin C, it was gone within days. I was averaging about 25,000 mg a day for a week. It's a Godsend!!

You are right about the uva ursi, it's helped me a time or two, as well.


Vitamin C
Posted by Caitlin (New York, NY) on 11/10/2011
5 out of 5 stars

I have been struggling with a bladder infection for about 3 weeks now, trying every possible remedy under the sun (plus antibiotics, which helped initially, but then it came back). I read about Vitamin C and decided to try it. I took 2 doses of sodium ascorbate (c powder with baking soda) as recommended on this site and within 24 hours my bladder infection symptoms had completely disappeared. Amazing!!


Vitamin C
Posted by Aniasf (San Francisco, Ca, USA) on 12/08/2009
5 out of 5 stars

Vitamin C for bladder infection (cystitis)

I had a few acute bladder infection that I treated with antibiotics. Then there was that really nasty one which turned into a chronic problem. I was on various drugs for a year, it was ruining my stomach and whenever I stopped taking them the problem was returning.

A friend showed me a book about natural healing where one of the remedies was high dose vit C. I didn't expect much but it was easy enough to try. I think I was taking 5000 to 8000 mg a day in diluted form. Within days I was off any other medication and then shortly off vit C as well. What a life saver!

My bladder has never been the same after that year of cystitis, I have to avoid most of red wines, but this is manageable.

The cure in the book also mentioned drinking cranberry juice and eating watermelon with seeds. Maybe they also helped, but the vitamin drink had critical effect. I could feel the pain ease almost immediately after taking it.

Replied by Tracey
(Gainesville, Fl)
12/09/2009

where did you get this diluted form of vitamin c? how to measure?

Replied by Aniasf
(San Francisco, Ca, USA)
12/26/2009
5 out of 5 stars

I think you can get soluble vitamin C 1000mg as part of some cold or multivitamin formulas. I got mine in Europe where you can get fizzy tablets 1000mg, very tasty. You can probably also crush/dissolve/sweeten regular pills but I haven't tried that.


Vitamin C
Posted by Catherine (Madison, WI) on 09/14/2006
5 out of 5 stars

I had a pretty bad bladder infection that I discovered on a Friday. Had heard that vitamin C could knock one out... makes a lot of sense because increasing acidity of the urine seems to reduce bacterial load. (as craberry juice is supposed to do). Anyway, I took 1000 mgs two or three times for the next several days. almost over night I got relief.. I kept doing it for several days to make sure.



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