By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Bladder Infection
Herbal tinctures for bladder infection are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which offer a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and improving overall urinary function. Examples include uva ursi, marshmallow root, and stinging nettle, which have been used for centuries to treat bladder issues.
By using these herbal tinctures, individuals can experience relief from frequent urination, burning sensations, and pelvic pain, allowing them to live life without the discomfort and embarrassment associated with UTIs.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for bladder infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
- 2. Althaea officinalis
- 3. Hypericum perforatum
- 4. Hydrastis canadensis
- 5. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 6. Betula pendula
- 7. Zea mays
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Vaccinium myrtillus
- 10. Juniperus communis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bladder infection?
- What ailments similar to bladder infection are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Bearberry tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its natural antibacterial properties that target the bacteria responsible for the infection.
The tannins present in bearberry help to reduce inflammation and soothe the urinary tract, alleviating symptoms such as burning sensation while urinating and frequent urges.
Additionally, bearberry's antimicrobial compounds inhibit the growth of E. coli and other harmful bacteria that can cause bladder infections, promoting a healthy balance of flora in the urinary tract and ultimately helping to resolve the infection naturally.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Arbutin: Arbutin helps with bladder infection by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, such as E. coli, that cause urinary tract infections through its antibacterial properties.
- Ursolic acid: Ursolic acid helps with bladder infection by reducing inflammation in the urinary tract and exerting antimicrobial effects against bacteria that cause UTIs.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid helps with bladder infection by exhibiting antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, such as E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in the urinary tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Leaves::
- Barks::
- Roots::
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for bladder infection.
- Harvest 1 part of arctostaphylos uva ursi roots and stems when the plant is in full bloom.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material within 24 hours of harvesting for preservation.
- Combine 1 part of dried arctostaphylos uva ursi with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and let the mixture steep for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container to separate the tincture.
2. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The mucilage in marshmallow root coats and protects the urinary tract lining, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by bacterial infections. This natural coating also helps to flush out bacteria and other toxins from the bladder, promoting healing and relief from symptoms such as burning urination and frequent trips to the bathroom.
Additionally, marshmallow tinctures' antibacterial properties help to combat the underlying infection, supporting the body's natural defenses against UTIs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the bladder lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with bladder infections.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections in the bladder, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with bladder infections, such as pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Roots: Anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated bladder tissues.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help to reduce inflammation and fight off infection-causing bacteria.
- Roots: Also contains mucilage, a soothing substance that helps to calm the bladder and reduce irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for bladder infection.
- Harvest 1 part of roots and 3 parts of leaves of althaea officinalis plant in early summer.
- Clean the plant material thoroughly with water and then dry it at 50c for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 part of dried plant material with 2 parts of 60 vodka in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and store it in a dark glass bottle at room temperature.
3. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which work to reduce swelling and combat bacterial growth in the urinary tract.
The herb has been traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the bladder and urethra.
Additionally, St John's Wort has been shown to have analgesic and antipyretic properties, providing relief from pain, discomfort, and fever associated with UTIs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds may help reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, which could alleviate symptoms associated with bladder infections.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds may exhibit antimicrobial properties, which could help combat bacterial infections that cause bladder infections.
- Tannins: These plant compounds may help reduce inflammation and have antimicrobial properties, which could aid in relieving symptoms of bladder infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat bacterial infections in the bladder.
- Flowers: Utilized due to their antiseptic and astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the urinary tract.
- Roots: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can aid in reducing pain and infection in the bladder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for bladder infection.
- Harvest the fresh or dried aerial parts of hypericum perforatum in the summer months when in full bloom.
- Clean the harvested plant material with a fine-mesh sieve to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
- Steep one part of the chopped plant material in two parts of a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin for 2-6 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to separate the liquid from the solids.
4. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat bacterial overgrowth in the urinary tract.
The active compound berberine inhibits the growth of E. coli and other pathogens, reducing inflammation and pain associated with UTIs. Additionally, goldenseal's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the bladder lining, alleviating discomfort and urgency to urinate.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective alternative for managing bladder infections without antibiotics or harsh chemicals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid, exhibits antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial infections in the urinary tract, reducing the severity of bladder infections.
- Hydrastine: Hydrastine, an alkaloid, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm the bladder, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with bladder infections.
- Vasaka: Vasaka, a phenolic glycoside, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the urinary tract, reducing the risk of bladder infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound that has antimicrobial properties and helps combat bacterial infections.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are also used to make tinctures, as they contain similar compounds to the roots, including berberine, which helps alleviate symptoms of bladder infections.
- Leaves: The leaves of Hydrastis canadensis are occasionally used to make tinctures, as they contain some berberine and other compounds that may help soothe and treat bladder infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for bladder infection.
- Harvest clean and dry hydrastis canadensis roots to ensure optimal medicinal properties.
- Chop 100 grams of the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Steep the chopped roots in 500 milliliters of 25% glycerin and 75% ethanol mixture for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a glass container to separate the liquid from solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 4 weeks before using.
5. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat the underlying bacteria causing the infection.
The tannins and phenolic compounds present in highbush cranberry have been shown to inhibit bacterial growth, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms such as burning sensations during urination. Additionally, the tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the bladder lining, promoting healing and reducing discomfort associated with UTIs.
By addressing the root cause of the infection, highbush cranberry tinctures provide natural relief from bladder infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Proanthocyanidins: These complex phenolic compounds help with bladder infection by preventing the adherence of bacteria to the bladder and urinary tract walls, thereby inhibiting the development of urinary tract infections.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants, also phenolic compounds, help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with urinary tract infections by combating oxidative stress and modulating the immune system.
- Quinic acid derivatives: These compounds contribute to the antimicrobial properties of Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures, helping to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the urinary tract and alleviate symptoms of bladder infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Rich in anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate bladder infection symptoms.
- Fruits: High in tannins, which have astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial growth in the bladder.
- Roots: Contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help combat bladder infection-causing bacteria and reduce symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for bladder infection.
- Harvest approximately 1 pound of vaccinium macrocarpon berries in the early morning when they are fresh and ripe.
- Clean and dry the berries thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure quality.
- Combine 1 pound of dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries with 2 cups of 190 proof grain alcohol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the container daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
6. Betula pendula
Silver birch tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated tissues in the urinary tract.
The tincture's beta-sitosterol content also reduces inflammation and combats bacteria that can cause infections. Additionally, silver birch has been shown to help eliminate toxins and reduce symptoms such as burning sensations and frequent urination.
Its natural antibacterial properties make it an effective adjunct therapy for combating bladder infections and promoting overall urinary tract health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Betula pendula tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Betulin: Betulin is a triterpenoid that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing the inflammation and bacterial load associated with bladder infections.
- Betulonic acid: Betulonic acid is a triterpenoid that has antioxidant properties, which help in protecting the bladder from oxidative stress and damage caused by infection.
- Salicin: Salicin is a phenolic compound that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in relieving the pain and discomfort associated with bladder infections, as well as reducing inflammation in the urinary tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of silver birch used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Leaves: Contain antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that combat bacterial infections in the urinary tract.
- Stems: May contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with bladder infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic silver birch for bladder infection.
- Harvest fresh betula pendula leaves and twigs in early morning when plant is at its highest moisture content.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Combine 200 grams of dried betula pendula with 700 milliliters of 45 percent ethanol in a large glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it daily for 2 weeks to allow the ethanol to extract.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the plant material after 2 weeks.
7. Zea mays
Corn tinctures helps with bladder infection because its natural antibacterial properties target the underlying cause of the infection, reducing inflammation and eliminating bacteria from the urinary tract.
The tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds also help to soothe and calm the bladder, easing symptoms such as burning and frequency.
Additionally, corn tinctures stimulate the body's natural detoxification processes, promoting a healthy balance in the urinary system and encouraging the body to flush out toxins that may have contributed to the infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zea mays tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Apolipoproteins: Apolipoproteins in Zea mays tinctures may help reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, thereby alleviating bladder infection symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Zea mays tinctures possess antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections in the bladder and urinary tract.
- Saponins: Saponins in Zea mays tinctures may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and protect the urinary tract from infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of corn used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Stems: Stems are often used to make tinctures due to their high silica content, which helps in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in bladder infections.
- Seeds: Corn seeds are used to make tinctures due to their diuretic properties, which help in increasing urine production and flushing out bacteria causing bladder infections.
- Buds: Corn buds are used to make tinctures due to their antiseptic properties, which help in preventing bacterial growth and reducing inflammation in the bladder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic corn for bladder infection.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of zea mays stalks and leaves when they are in their peak potency usually in the morning.
- Chop the zea mays plant material into small pieces to release the bioactive compounds and increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped zea mays with 80 proof vodka 1 part plant material to 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with bladder infection because its potent diuretic properties stimulate urine production, effectively flushing out bacteria that cause UTIs.
The herb's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds also help to reduce inflammation and kill off any remaining pathogens in the urinary tract.
Additionally, dandelion's ability to increase the flow of urine reduces stagnation and promotes a healthy balance of the bladder's natural flora, further supporting the body's natural defenses against infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Taraxacum officinale, specifically quercetin and kaempferol, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial growth in the urinary tract, alleviating symptoms of bladder infections.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Taraxacum officinale, such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid, demonstrate antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, reducing the severity of bladder infections and promoting a healthy urinary tract environment.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin found in Taraxacum officinale, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections in the urinary tract, alleviating symptoms of bladder infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Leaves: They are used due to their diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and relieve symptoms of bladder infections.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help combat the underlying infection and reduce inflammation.
- Flowers: They are used due to their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to stimulate urine production and reduce discomfort associated with bladder infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bladder infection.
- Gather 1 part fresh taraxacum officinale roots and flowers and combine with 2 parts 95 vodka.
- Chop the taraxacum mixture finely and place it in a glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store the container in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
9. Vaccinium myrtillus
Blueberry tinctures helps with bladder infection because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The antioxidants present in blueberries help to reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, alleviating discomfort and pain associated with bladder infections. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of blueberry tincture work to combat bacterial growth, preventing further infection and promoting healing.
By addressing the root cause of the issue, herbal blueberry tinctures provide a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms and support overall urinary tract health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract, alleviating symptoms of bladder infection.
- Quercetin: A potent flavonoid, quercetin has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat bacterial infections and alleviate symptoms of bladder infection.
- Ellagic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which can help prevent the growth and spread of bacteria and other pathogens that cause bladder infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Leaves: They contain anthocyanins and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of bladder infections.
- Fruits: The fruits, particularly the berries, possess antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the urinary tract.
- Roots: The roots of Vaccinium myrtillus contain tannins and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract, thus aiding in the treatment of bladder infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blueberry for bladder infection.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh vaccinium myrtillus leaves and stems in the early morning to capture optimal potency.
- Chop the harvested material into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter to enhance extraction.
- Combine the chopped vaccinium myrtillus with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to make a tincture.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
10. Juniperus communis
Juniper tinctures helps with bladder infection because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, thereby alleviating symptoms such as burning during urination and frequent urination.
The tannins present in juniper berries also help to tighten the muscles of the bladder and urethra, preventing bacteria from entering the bladder and reducing the severity of infection.
Additionally, juniper's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing in the urinary tract.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Juniperus communis tinctures that help with bladder infection.
- Terpenes: This compound has antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacteria that cause bladder infections by inhibiting their growth and multiplication.
- Phenolic acids: This antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound helps reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, making it a suitable remedy for soothing bladder irritation and discomfort.
- Diterpenic acids: This compound exhibits diuretic properties, increasing urine production and helping to flush out bacteria and toxins that may be contributing to bladder infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of juniper used to make tinctures for bladder infection.
- Barks: Rich in terpenes and essential oils, Juniperus communis barks have been traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Juniperus communis are rich in flavonoids and terpenes, which have been traditionally used to treat bladder infections by reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial growth.
- Fruits: Juniperus communis fruits, also known as berries, have been traditionally used to treat bladder infections due to their diuretic properties, which help to flush out bacteria and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic juniper for bladder infection.
- Harvest 1 part of juniperus communis berries in late summer or early autumn when they are fully ripe.
- Clean 1 part of the harvested berries by gently brushing off any dirt or debris with a soft brush.
- Chop 1 part of the cleaned berries into small pieces and combine with 1 part of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the chopped berry mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and store in a cool dark place.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bladder infection?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with bladder infection is Uva Ursi and Berberis.
Uva Ursi, also known as bearberry, contains arbutin, which has antibacterial properties that help combat E. coli bacteria commonly causing urinary tract infections. Berberis root tincture, on the other hand, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the bladder and urinary tract.
This combination can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.
What ailments similar to bladder infection are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to bladder infection that are treated with herbal tinctures are kidney stones, prostate issues, and urinary tract inflammation.
Herbs such as uva ursi, stinging nettle, and bearberry are commonly used to soothe and heal the urinary tract, reducing pain and inflammation associated with these conditions.
These herbs can also help reduce symptoms of overactive bladder and urge incontinence.