Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs), can come on suddenly or gradually. Symptoms range from mild irritation to intense pain, a constant urge to urinate, and even blood in the urine.
Thankfully, several natural remedies for UTIs can ease discomfort and help eliminate the infection—especially when used early and alongside good hydration and hygiene.
Quick Facts
UTIs are usually caused by bacteria (often E. coli) entering the urethra and bladder.
Early treatment can often prevent a mild infection from becoming severe or recurring.
Natural remedies may help support the body’s defenses, but severe infections may still require antibiotics.
Always seek urgent care for fever, flank pain, or symptoms of a kidney infection.
Top Natural Remedies to Fight Infection
1. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may help discourage bacterial growth in the urinary tract and support overall pH balance. To use:
Mix 1–2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered ACV in a glass of water.
Add honey to improve taste if desired.
Drink 2–3 times per day at the onset of symptoms.
Many readers on Earth Clinic also report success using an ACV sitz bath for quick local pain relief.
Baking soda may help neutralize urine acidity and soothe burning sensations, especially in the earliest stages of a bladder infection:
Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water.
Drink up to 3–4 times on the first day of symptoms.
If improving, reduce to 1–2 times per day.
Note: Take on an empty stomach to minimize bloating. If symptoms worsen or persist, discontinue and consider switching to a different remedy and/or seeking medical advice.
3. Cranberry Juice or Capsules
Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from attaching to bladder walls. Use 100% unsweetened cranberry juice or opt for capsules:
Drink 4 oz of cranberry juice 4 times per day during acute infections.
Choose capsules to avoid sugar and for convenience.
Always check juice labels for purity. Many “cranberry drinks” contain added sugars or other fruit juices that can feed bacteria rather than fight them.
4. D-Mannose
D-Mannose is a natural sugar that can bind to certain strains of E. coli, helping flush them from the bladder with urination:
Frankincense oil may support urinary tract health and provide soothing relief when applied topically:
Use 1–2 drops on the lower abdomen or on a panty liner.
Repeat application several times per day as needed.
Essential oils are highly concentrated—use sparingly, avoid direct contact with mucous membranes, and always test a small area first for sensitivity.
6. Plantain Leaf Tea
Plantain tea (from the herb, not the banana-like fruit) is a soothing traditional remedy for UTIs:
Place 3 tablespoons dried plantain leaf in a quart jar.
Pour in 1 quart of boiling water and steep 30–60 minutes (or overnight for a stronger infusion).
Strain and drink throughout the day.
For maintenance, drink 1 cup daily for 7 days after symptoms resolve.
7. Sea Salt
Sea salt has natural mineral content and may offer mild antimicrobial support and symptom relief:
Mix ½–1 teaspoon of unrefined sea salt in 1 cup of warm water.
Sip slowly on an empty stomach.
Repeat once more the following day if needed.
8. Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi (bearberry) is a traditional herb used to support bladder and urinary tract health:
Available in capsule or tincture form.
Use at the first signs of infection and discontinue once symptoms resolve.
Note: Uva Ursi is generally recommended for short-term use only; follow label directions and consult a practitioner if you have kidney disease, are pregnant, or are taking medications.
9. Corn Silk
Corn silk, ideally from organic corn, can help soothe urinary tract irritation and support normal urination:
Prepare as a tea, or take in capsule or tincture form.
Use daily during the infection and for several days afterward to support recovery.
10. Vitamin C
Vitamin C boosts immune function and can increase urine acidity, making the environment less friendly to bacteria:
Common dose: 1,000 mg 2–5 times daily, adjusting for bowel tolerance.
Sodium ascorbate is often gentler on the stomach than ascorbic acid.
Choose powder forms to avoid added sugars, flavorings, or binders.
11. Zinc
Zinc supports immune function and may help the body clear infection more quickly:
Supplement with 15–30 mg daily while fighting infection, unless otherwise advised by your practitioner.
These herbs are often used by practitioners for their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties to combat bacterial overgrowth.
12. Olive Leaf Extract (OLE)
Olive leaf extract contains oleuropein, a compound recognized for its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is often used to support the body in clearing infections.
Follow the dose recommended on the product label.
Use for the duration of the infection and for several days afterward.
Note: OLE is very strong and may cause die-off symptoms (like mild fatigue or headache) when first started.
13. Goldenseal or Berberine
Goldenseal and its active component, Berberine, are potent botanicals historically used to fight bacterial infections, including those affecting mucous membranes like the bladder lining.
Available in capsule or tincture form. Follow dosing instructions carefully, as Goldenseal is not meant for long-term daily use.
Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Natural Remedies for UTI Pain Relief
In addition to the infection-fighting remedies above, the following treatments may help relieve UTI pain, burning, and pelvic discomfort while your body heals.
Pain-Relief Options at a Glance
Turmeric: Internal anti-inflammatory support.
Castor Oil Pack: External warmth and soothing for the lower abdomen.
Healing Bath: Full-body relaxation and local comfort.
14. Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herb that may help ease pain and support the immune system:
Take 4 capsules, 2–4 times daily (following label directions).
Or drink Golden Milk (turmeric blended with milk and warming spices) for a soothing, comforting remedy.
15. Castor Oil Packs
Castor oil can be used externally to soothe pain and may gently support circulation and immune response in the pelvic area:
Soak a folded cotton or flannel cloth with castor oil.
Lay over the lower abdomen and cover with plastic wrap.
Secure with a bandage or snug underwear.
Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle on low for added relief.
Leave on for up to 2 hours, then remove and wash off remaining oil.
16. Healing Bath
A warm, healing bath can reduce pain, relax muscles, and support the body’s natural healing response. Add one of the following to a comfortably warm bath:
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup Epsom salt
½ cup baking soda
A few drops of frankincense essential oil (optional; dilute well and avoid direct contact with sensitive areas)
Soak for about 20 minutes to reduce inflammation and calm the nervous system.
17. Dietary Adjustments & Gut Health
Nutrition plays a key role in bladder health and recovery:
Avoid sugar and processed foods during an active infection, as these may feed harmful bacteria.
Focus on water and herbal teas rather than coffee, soda, and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.
Include vegetables, soups, and broths to support hydration and mineral intake.
Probiotics for Prevention and Recurrence
Probiotics are critical for preventing recurrent UTIs, as imbalances in the vaginal and gut flora can be a primary source of E. coli. Specific strains of Lactobacillus (like L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri) have been studied for their ability to colonize the vaginal flora and prevent uropathogens from taking hold.
Take a high-quality probiotic supplement daily, especially if you have a history of frequent UTIs.
Consider taking extra probiotics (oral or vaginal suppositories) after a course of antibiotics to quickly restore healthy flora.
Enhanced Hydration Strategy
The goal of hydration during a UTI is to dilute the urine to reduce the concentration of irritating bacteria and acid, easing the burning pain.
Drink 8–10 glasses of water per day. The more dilute your urine is (i.e., clear or very pale yellow), the less irritation you will experience.
Use filtered or distilled water to avoid chlorine and other trace minerals that may irritate the sensitive bladder lining.
18. Lifestyle Tips
Urinating after intercourse helps flush bacteria from the urethra before they can travel to the bladder.
Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
Change out of wet bathing suits or sweaty clothing promptly.
Drink plenty of water daily to support urinary tract health and regular flushing.
Important: When to See a Doctor
Fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting
Pain in the back, side, or under the ribs (possible kidney infection)
Blood in the urine that does not quickly improve
Severe pain, inability to urinate, or symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours despite home treatment
Frequent UTIs, pregnancy, diabetes, kidney disease, or other chronic conditions
These remedies are for educational purposes and are not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for persistent, severe, or recurrent urinary symptoms.
Keep reading below to see which natural remedies helped Earth Clinic readers heal bladder infections quickly and which combinations worked best for stubborn, recurring UTIs.
