By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Bladder Infection
Herbal decoctions for bladder infection are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing, effective treatment for urinary tract infections.
These decoctions help alleviate symptoms such as burning urination, frequent trips to the bathroom, and cloudy urine by reducing inflammation, combating bacteria, and improving digestion. Examples of helpful herbal decoctions include dandelion root, uva ursi, and marshmallow root, which have been used for centuries to treat bladder infections.
By using these natural remedies, individuals can find relief from painful symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for bladder infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
- 2. Althaea officinalis
- 3. Zea mays
- 4. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 5. Solidago virgaurea
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Cucurbita pepo
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Serenoa repens
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for bladder infection?
- What ailments similar to bladder infection are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Bearberry decoctions helps with bladder infection because of its potent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's primary active compound, uva-ursi, has been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, that can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). Additionally, bearberry's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the bladder and urethra, alleviating symptoms like burning sensation during urination.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to alleviate UTI symptoms without resorting to antibiotics or other harsh medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid acid that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Gallic acid: A phenolic acid with antimicrobial properties, capable of inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause bladder infections.
- Arbutin: A glycosidic compound that breaks down into hydroquinone, a natural antiseptic that helps to reduce bacterial load and combat infection in the urinary tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Antimicrobial properties help to combat bacterial infections in the bladder.
- Barks: Astringent properties help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth in the bladder.
- Fruits: Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties help to protect the bladder and reduce inflammation caused by infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for bladder infection.
- Gather 10-20 grams of dried uva ursi leaves from a trusted supplier or forage responsibly.
- Combine the dried leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the leaves to infuse their active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for up to 3 days.
2. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow decoctions helps with bladder infection because its active compounds, mucilages, soothe and calm irritated bladder tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
The decoction's demulcent properties also create a protective barrier on the bladder lining, preventing bacteria from adhering and multiplying, thereby aiding in the body's natural defense against infection.
Additionally, marshmallow decoctions can help alleviate urinary frequency and burning sensations associated with bladder infections, promoting overall relief and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis decoctions help soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the urinary tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with bladder infections.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Althaea officinalis, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help combat bacterial growth and reduce oxidative stress in the urinary tract, alleviating symptoms of bladder infections.
- Polysaccharides: Pectic polysaccharides in Althaea officinalis decoctions have immunomodulatory effects, stimulating the immune system to fight off bacterial infections in the urinary tract and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used to make decoctions for bladder infections due to their high mucilage content, which helps soothe and protect the bladder lining.
- Barks: Althaea officinalis barks are used to make decoctions for bladder infections because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
- Roots (again, as it's the most used part): The roots of Althaea officinalis are used to make decoctions for bladder infections due to their antiseptic properties, which help prevent bacterial growth and infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for bladder infection.
- Weigh 30 to 60 grams of dried root to prepare herbal decoction.
- Combine the dried root with 1 liter of cold water in a pot.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to release the plant's properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool before use or storage.
3. Zea mays
Corn decoctions helps with bladder infection because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling in the urinary tract, thereby alleviating discomfort and pain associated with UTIs.
The decoctions also have antibacterial properties that combat E. coli and other bacteria responsible for causing infections.
Additionally, corn contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that help to soothe the bladder lining, reducing irritation and inflammation, allowing the body to naturally expel the infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zea mays decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid compound that helps alleviate bladder infections by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, reducing the growth of bacteria that cause infections.
- Saponins: A type of glycoside that helps combat bladder infections by inhibiting the adhesion of pathogens to bladder epithelial cells, thereby reducing the severity of the infection.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid compound that helps alleviate bladder infections by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder and urinary tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of corn used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Zea mays leaves are used due to their diuretic properties, which help increase urine production to flush out bacteria causing bladder infections.
- Roots: Zea mays roots are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with bladder infections.
- Seeds: Zea mays seeds are used due to their antibacterial properties, which help combat bacterial infections in the bladder and urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic corn for bladder infection.
- Harvest zea mays stalks and roots in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the zea mays stalks and roots in a warm dry place for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 20 grams of dried zea mays stalks and 30 grams of dried zea mays roots.
- Steep 10 grams of the zea mays combination in 1 liter of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain and drink the decoction immediately after it has cooled to room temperature.
4. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry decoctions helps with bladder infection because its bioactive compounds, particularly hippuric acid and other flavonoids, have potent antibacterial properties that target the bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
These compounds help to inhibit bacterial adhesion, prevent biofilm formation, and disrupt bacterial cell membranes, ultimately reducing the severity of symptoms such as burning sensation while urinating, frequency, and urgency.
Additionally, highbush cranberry's anti-inflammatory properties can alleviate discomfort and promote healing in the urinary tract.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation in the urinary tract and prevent bacterial adhesion, thereby alleviating bladder infection symptoms.
- Ellagic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria responsible for causing bladder infections, such as Escherichia coli.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid flavonol has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce bladder irritation and prevent the spread of infection-causing bacteria.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Fruits: They contain proanthocyanidins, which help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder and urinary tract walls.
- Leaves: They possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of bladder infections.
- Barks: They may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for bladder infection.
- Gather 30 grams of dried vaccinium macrocarpon and rinse it with cold water.
- Crush the dried vaccinium macrocarpon into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids.
5. Solidago virgaurea
Goldenrod decoctions helps with bladder infection because they contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds that target the underlying causes of the infection.
The decoction's potent bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, work to eliminate harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
This natural approach can provide effective relief from symptoms like burning during urination and frequent trips to the bathroom, promoting a swift recovery from bladder infections without harsh chemical medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help in reducing inflammation and fighting off bacterial infections in the urinary tract, thereby alleviating symptoms of bladder infections.
- Phenolic acids: They exhibit antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial growth in the urinary tract, and their anti-inflammatory effects also contribute to soothing bladder infections.
- Tannins: These constituents possess antimicrobial and astringent properties that help to reduce bacterial growth and alleviate the symptoms associated with bladder infections, such as burning sensations and urinary frequency.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help combat bladder infection-causing bacteria.
- Roots: Utilized for their diuretic properties, which increase urine production to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Stems: Employed for their astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe the bladder and urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for bladder infection.
- Gather 1 to 2 cups of dried solidago virgaurea flowers and leaves from a reliable source.
- Combine 1 cup of dried solidago virgaurea with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until it reaches 195 degrees fahrenheit.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Allow the decoction to cool and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before use.
6. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with bladder infection because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing swelling and discomfort associated with UTIs.
The decoction's antimicrobial compounds also inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, that cause bladder infections. Additionally, stinging nettle's antispasmodic properties help alleviate frequent or painful urination, a common symptom of UTIs.
By promoting healthy urination and reducing inflammation, herbal stinging nettle decoctions can provide effective relief from bladder infection symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Saponins: Saponins have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections, including those causing bladder infections, by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane and inhibiting their growth.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid found in Urtica dioica, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with bladder infections, such as pain and discomfort.
- Polysaccharides: Beta-glucans, a type of polysaccharide, stimulate the immune system, enhancing its ability to fight off infections, including those causing bladder infections, by activating macrophages and natural killer cells.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are commonly used to make decoctions for bladder infections due to their diuretic properties that help increase urine production and alleviate symptoms.
- Roots: Urtica dioica roots are often used in decoctions for bladder infections because of their anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Stems: Urtica dioica stems are sometimes used in decoctions for bladder infections due to their diuretic and astringent properties that help control urine flow and prevent bacterial growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for bladder infection.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems from a clean and dry environment by hand.
- Rinse the harvested urtica dioica thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
- Chop the cleaned urtica dioica into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion by using a sharp knife.
- Steep 1 tablespoon of chopped urtica dioica in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids from the liquid.
7. Cucurbita pepo
Zucchini decoctions helps with bladder infection because of its natural antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat the bacteria responsible for UTIs.
The decoction's high water content helps to flush out the urinary tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with infection. Additionally, the antioxidants present in zucchini help to neutralize oxidative stress and reduce the risk of further complications.
As a result, herbal zucchini decoctions provide a natural and effective treatment option for relieving bladder infection symptoms and promoting overall urinary health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cucurbita pepo decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Phenolic acids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract, which can contribute to bladder infections by limiting bacterial growth and promoting a healthy environment for the bladder and urethra.
- Flavonoids: Possess antimicrobial properties that can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, such as E. coli, which is commonly associated with bladder infections, thereby preventing the spread of infection.
- Saponins: Have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the severity of bladder infections by limiting bacterial adhesion to the bladder walls and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of zucchini used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Fruits: Cucurbita pepo fruits, also known as squash, are often used due to their high water content, which can help to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Leaves: Cucurbita pepo leaves are used in decoctions for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the bladder.
- Seeds: Cucurbita pepo seeds are sometimes used in decoctions due to their potential to reduce inflammation and fight off bacteria, although they are less commonly used than the fruits and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic zucchini for bladder infection.
- Harvest 10-15 cucurbita pepo leaves and stems for decoction preparation at dawn.
- Chop the harvested cucurbita pepo leaves and stems into small pieces weighing 30 grams.
- Combine the chopped cucurbita pepo with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 5-7 minutes then reduce heat to simmer for another 20 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
8. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with bladder infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which help combat the underlying bacteria causing the infection.
The decoction's warm and soothing nature also provides relief from burning sensations during urination, while its anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling in the urinary tract, making it easier to pass urine.
Additionally, ginger has been shown to increase urine production, helping to flush out the infection-causing bacteria and promote a faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically [6]-gingerol, possess antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections such as those causing bladder infections.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, similar to gingerols, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that aid in reducing bladder inflammation and fighting off pathogens.
- Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help alleviate bladder infection symptoms and prevent further bacterial growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Rhyzomes: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate symptoms of bladder infections.
- Roots: Utilized for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which aid in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria causing bladder infections.
- Stems: Employed for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and heal the affected areas in the bladder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for bladder infection.
- Gather fresh and dried zingiber officinale rhizomes in a ratio of 1:2 for preparation.
- Wash the rhizomes thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and impurities.
- Chop the fresh rhizomes into small pieces and combine with dried ones in a pot.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add the chopped rhizomes to the boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
9. Serenoa repens
Saw palmetto decoctions helps with bladder infection because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in the urinary tract.
The decoction's natural antibacterial agents also combat bacteria that cause UTIs, promoting a healthy balance of flora in the bladder and urethra.
Additionally, saw palmetto has been shown to increase blood flow to the urinary tract, allowing for more efficient elimination of toxins and reducing the risk of infection recurrence.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Serenoa repens decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Serenoa repens decoctions may help alleviate bladder infections by exhibiting antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides in Serenoa repens may assist in relieving bladder infections by displaying anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce bladder inflammation and promote healing.
- Terpenoids: Ursolic acid, a terpenoid found in Serenoa repens, may contribute to the alleviation of bladder infections by exhibiting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the bladder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of saw palmetto used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Roots: They contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial infections in the urinary tract.
- Leaves: They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms associated with bladder infections, such as pain and discomfort.
- Rhyzomes: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections in the bladder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saw palmetto for bladder infection.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried serenoa repens roots or 60 grams of fresh roots.
- Crush the harvested serenoa repens into smaller pieces.
- Combine 10 grams of crushed serenoa repens with 1 liter of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 10 to 30 minutes and then strain it.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator and consume 20 to 30 milliliters 2 times a day.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with bladder infection because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the urinary tract and reduce discomfort.
The diuretic nature of dandelion helps to increase urine production, which flushes out bacteria and toxins from the body, thereby alleviating symptoms such as burning sensations during urination and frequent urges to pee.
Additionally, dandelion's antiseptic qualities help to prevent bacterial growth and promote a healthy urinary tract environment, making it an effective natural remedy for bladder infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with bladder infection.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and isorhapontigenin, have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale may contribute to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to eliminate pathogens responsible for bladder infections and promote a healthy balance of gut microbiota.
- Coumarins: Coumarins, such as umbelliferone, have been found to possess antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which can aid in reducing the severity of bacterial infections and promoting the healing process in the urinary tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for bladder infection.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in treating bladder infections.
- Roots: They are used because they contain inulin, a type of fiber that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in soothing and healing bladder infections.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain sesquiterpene lactones that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in treating bladder infections and promoting healing in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bladder infection.
- Gather 20-30 fresh taraxacum officinale roots, wash them thoroughly with cold water, and chop into small pieces.
- Combine 5-7 grams of chopped roots with 250ml of water in a saucepan, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let it steep for 30-40 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discard the solids.
- Let the decoction cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for bladder infection?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with bladder infection is a blend of Uva ursi, Juniper berries, and Marshmallow root.
Uva ursi has antibacterial properties that target E. coli bacteria commonly causing bladder infections. Juniper berries help to reduce inflammation and ease pain, while Marshmallow root soothes and protects the mucous membranes, promoting a healthy environment for healing.
This combination can be consumed as a tea or added to a warm bath for relief.
What ailments similar to bladder infection are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to bladder infection that are treated with herbal decoctions are kidney stones, urinary tract inflammation, and prostate issues.
Herbs such as juniper berries, uva ursi, and goldenseal are used to treat these conditions by reducing inflammation, eliminating bacteria, and promoting urinary health.
These herbal decoctions can help alleviate symptoms like pain, burning, and frequent urination, providing natural relief for individuals with kidney and urinary tract issues.