Natural Ways to Treat a UTI

For women, especially those who are sexually active, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur at any time for a variety of reasons. These infections are among the most uncomfortable health issues, with symptoms like painful burning and a persistent urge to urinate that you’ll want to get rid of as soon as possible.

Antibiotics are the go-to treatment for UTIs. They effectively clear the infection in a short time with minimal discomfort.

What's the Issue with Antibiotics?

Some people swear by antibiotics, while others have their doubts. Pharmaceutical companies, while beneficial, aren’t the greenest— their production plants contribute to pollution, and their products are often packaged in plastic. Furthermore, some believe antibiotics disrupt the balance of good bacteria, potentially weakening your immune system.

If you're dealing with a UTI, it's essential to consult a doctor if symptoms last more than 2 days, but there are still natural approaches you can take to prevent the infection from spreading, without spending a lot of money or resources.

Natural Solutions for UTIs

1. Cranberry Cranberry is known to help acidify urine, preventing UTI bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls. Be sure to consume 100% cranberry juice or fresh cranberries. Avoid store-bought juices, as the added sugars and artificial ingredients won’t be effective in treating the condition.

2. Baking Soda At the first sign of a UTI, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with eight ounces of water. It may not taste great, but it’s worth it. Baking soda works by raising the pH of the acidic and irritating urine during a UTI episode, helping to ease the discomfort.

3. Uva Ursi Uva Ursi is a herbal remedy available at many natural food and supplement stores. Though scientific research on its effectiveness is mixed, this herb is believed to have natural antiseptic qualities that may support UTI treatment.