Cystitis Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Cystitis is a common urinary tract infection characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bladder and urinary tract, often caused by bacterial infections or other irritants.
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat cystitis, offering a natural and effective approach to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Certain herbs such as marshmallow root, goldenseal, and uva ursi have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to soothe and protect the urinary tract, while herbs like saw palmetto and stinging nettle may help to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms.
Herbal preparations like teas, infusions, and tinctures made from herbs like juniper berries, corn silk, and chamomile can be used to treat cystitis, with the added benefit of being easily absorbed by the body and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
What causes cystitis?
The primary causes of cystitis are bacterial infections, typically caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply, leading to inflammation and infection.
Secondary causes of cystitis can include catheter-associated urinary tract infections, which occur when bacteria are introduced into the urinary tract through a catheter, and kidney stones, which can cause obstruction and increase the risk of infection.
Lifestyles that increase the chances of developing cystitis include frequent urination, which can cause irritation and trauma to the urethra, and sexual activity, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
Additionally, women who use diaphragms for birth control may also be at higher risk, as the diaphragm can create a barrier that allows bacteria to grow in the urinary tract.
What herbs heal cystitis?
The medicinal herbs used to treat cystitis are Uva ursi, Juniperus communis, and Berberis vulgaris, which have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and diuretic properties that help alleviate symptoms.
Uva ursi, in particular, contains arbutin, a bioactive compound that inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause cystitis, such as E. coli.
Juniperus communis has terpenes like alpha-pinene that have a diuretic effect, increasing urine production to help flush out the bladder and reduce inflammation.
Berberis vulgaris contains berberine, which has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
What preparations treat cystitis?
The herbal preparations used to treat cystitis are often in the form of teas, infusions, and decoctions that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
These preparations can include a combination of diuretic and antibacterial properties, such as in a tea that helps to flush out the urinary tract and prevent the growth of bacteria.
Other preparations, like infusions and syrups, may be used to soothe the bladder and urethra, reducing pain and discomfort associated with cystitis.
Additionally, some herbal preparations may be used topically, such as in a warm compress or bath, to help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat cystitis.