REMEDIES

D-mannose is a bittersweet, naturally occurring sugar found in cranberries, believed to be its primary active ingredient. Isolated D-mannose is up to 50 times stronger than regular cranberries when targeting UTIs. It can help both prevent the formation and accumulation of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract and allow the beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract to flourish. A 2014 study published in the World Journal of Urology studied 308 women with a history of recurrent UTIs who were divided into three groups. One group received D-mannose powder for six months, the second received an antibiotic daily, and the third received no treatment. Recurring UTIs presented in 15 women in the D-mannose group, 21 in the antibiotic group, and 62 in the no-treatment group. Aside from significantly reducing the risk of recurrent UTIs, patients in the D-mannose group had a significantly lower risk of side effects.

Uva ursi (also known as bearberry) is an herb that has diuretic, astringent, and antiseptic qualities and has been effectively used to treat UTIs. As the urine must be alkaline for uva ursi to be effective, it shouldn’t be used in conjunction with cranberry juice, which makes urine acidic. Additionally, it must be taken in proper doses as too much uva ursi can be toxic (so for someone with a kidney infection, or expectant women, it’s best to avoid it).

The flowers and leaves of hibiscus plants contain potent compounds with antioxidant and antibacterial properties, plus hibiscus extract has a diuretic effect. This means it promotes the removal of excess water, salts, and other accumulated metabolic waste. For UTI prevention, have a glass of hibiscus tea. Hibiscus extracts are also available in tablet and capsule form.

Pumpkin seed extract contains beneficial fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties, and they also support healthy bladder function. Natural health practitioners recommend taking 500 milligrams of pumpkin seed oil extract per day to avoid

UTIs. Try snacking on pumpkin seeds or adding a handful to salads.

Drinking baking soda mixed with water at the first signs of a UTI can quickly neutralize the urine and kill any bacteria living in it. Try mixing a single tablespoon of baking soda with water and drinking it several times throughout the day to prevent UTIs from worsening.

Studies published in Phytotherapy Research indicate that clove oil has antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Another clove oil benefit is that aside from promoting healing, it may also relieve pain. Clove can be taken internally for two weeks at a time, but it’s recommended to do so under guidance from a health care provider or nutritionist.

Several studies show that myrrh oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties and it’s been used historically to treat wounds and prevent infections. Apply topically with a warm or cool compress or rub it into skin.

A 2012 study evaluated the antibacterial activity of oregano oil. Researchers found that oregano was active against all the clinical strains of bacteria that were tested, and it successfully inhibited the growth of E. coli, the bacteria most commonly seen in UTIs. Mix three drops of undiluted oregano oil with a small amount of carrier oil, then apply with a compress or rub into skin.

For prevention, it’s a good idea to focus on more of the above. Drink plenty of water, load up on cranberry juice and nutrient-rich food, use the bathroom as needed, and limit caffeine intake and artificially sweetened drinks. Also, try to relax (yes, UTIs can very much be a mind-body condition too) and get enough sleep and take some time to read and chat with friends and go on vacation…

Though simpler and better than all that, of course, is to ask Hashem to keep us relaxed, upbeat, and healthy. Disclaimer: