In addition to the necessary treatment with medication, home remedies can also help with a bladder infection. Even then, people knew helpful tips against the symptoms. Kidney and Bladder teas are highly valued because they use herbal substances and have been known for several centuries. The following are additional measures that can support the healing process:
Drink a lot and pee often
- Use of a hot water bottle, compresses, or sitz baths.
- cranberry juice and blueberry or lingonberry juice.
- Avoid lemon juice, coffee, and alcohol.
These tips are very effective and useful in addition to treatment with medication. However, those affected should not only rely on the measures, because if the symptoms do not subside promptly, a doctor must also be contacted.
Home remedies for cystitis work
It is recommended that those affected drink enough. The intake of liquids is of particular relevance in the case of a bladder infection. This means that patients who drink a lot often have to go to the toilet to “flush out” the pathogen. Anyone who rarely goes to the loo risks the germs multiplying. These can quickly extend to the ureters and renal pelvis. Those affected should drink more than two liters a day and not go to the toilet, even if it is painful. Also, note our home remedies for nocturnal urges to urinate.
Avoid alcohol and coffee!
It is not just the amount of liquid that that affected take in that is important. It also plays a big role in what patients drink. Many drinks contain substances that irritate the urinary tract and cause additional susceptibility. These include e.g. B. coffee and various lemon juices and alcohol. Those affected should also avoid drinks that are particularly sugary (sodas and iced tea). Elevated sugar levels promote bacterial growth, which is why diabetics, in particular, are often affected by bladder infections. Drinks such as tap water or unsweetened teas are recommended.
The effect of bladder and kidney teas
Special teas from the pharmacy or from the health food store contain herbal active ingredients. Teas that contain birch leaf extracts, for example, also have a diuretic effect. Also worth mentioning is the goldenrod herb, which not only promotes urine excretion but also relieves cramps and inhibits inflammation. There are also bearberry leaves that have a disinfecting effect.
The effect is further strengthened if those affected add a pinch of baking soda. Other herbal remedies are also suitable for cystitides, such as B. nettle, juniper, and horsetail. It is enough if those affected drink four to five cups a day. The bearberry tea should be consumed before going to bed so that the active ingredient can unfold in the bladder overnight. The teas are available in pharmacies as sachets or powder. Simply stir in hot water and leave to infuse. Patients do not need a prescription for the teas. However, people who have heart or kidney disease should speak to their doctor first.
Cranberry juice as a miracle cure?
For a long time, cranberry juice has been said to have effective powers in the fight against bladder infections. In fact, there is a positive effect, but it cannot be called a miracle cure. The useful substance of the fruit is called proanthocyanidins.
This obviously makes it more difficult for pathogens to attach themselves to the urinary tract. Regular consumption of cranberry juice can therefore help reduce infection. In addition, patients can use it to prevent repeated bladder infections. Blueberries and cranberries also contain the protective substance proanthocyanidin.
Warmth relaxes with a bladder infection
A hot-water bottle or warm compresses can have a relaxing effect on the cramping muscles and alleviate the symptoms. In addition, foot baths are also helpful. Those affected should be careful not to place the hot-water bottle on bare skin, as burns can occur. It is better to wrap the bottle in a towel. Also, read our tips against bladder weakness.
