UTI
At some point in life, most of us will experience a urniary tract infection (UTI), commonly referred as a bladder infection or Cystitis.
The term 'cystitis' refers to inflammation of the urniary bladder. The recurrence of cystitis may, in some cases, be associated with kidney troubles.
The patient complains of an almost continual urge to void and a burning sensation on passing urine. There may be a feeling of pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen. The urine may become thick, dark, and stringy. It may have an unpleasant smell and may contain blood or pus. Some pain in the lower back may also be felt in certain cases. In an acute stage, there may be a rise in body temperature. In the chronic form of cystitis, the symptoms are similar but generally less severe and longer lasting and without a fever.
Cystitis may result from infections in other parts connected with or adjacent to the bladder such as the kidneys, the urethra, the vagina, or the prostate gland. There may be local irritation, and inflammation in the bladder if urine is retained there for an unduly long time. Cystitis may also result from severe constipation. Other conditions like an infected kidney, stones in the kidneys or bladder, or an enlarged prostate may also lead to this disorder.
Cystitis Alternative Treatment with Sandal wood Oil.
The oil of sandalwood is also considered valuable in this disease. This oil should be given in doses of five drops in the begining and gradually increased to ten to thirty drops.
Aroma Therapy For Cyctitis
Aromatherapy essential oils can be added to baths, compresses, and massage oils to help to relieve urinary tract infections. Sitz Baths Can ease the pelvic pain that sometimes accompanies an infection add five drops of eac of juniper and sandalwood essential oils to the tub.
JUNIPER
A potent detoxifying oil with diuretic properties and is specifically an antiseptic for the urinary tract. It ahs a pungent,sweet, woodsy fragrance. DO NOT USE JUNIPER DURING PREGNANCY
SANDALWOOD also an antiseptic and diuretic and is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine for treating UTI's. It has complex, rich woodsy and sweet scent.
TEA TREE
A Potent antiseptic that directly kills the bacteria that cause UTI's. If you suffer frequently from this infection, add two drops of tea tree oil to one cup of warm water and use regularly as a gential wash after bowel movements and following intercourse Tea Tree oil has a pugnent, camphor-like scent.
Alternative Herbs For Cystitis
UVA URSI (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) , sometimes called bearberry, has been used by cultures as diversea s the Native Americans and the Chinese for treating urinary tract infections. Uva ursi also has diuretic action and helps to cleanse the urinary tract. The antibacterial component component of uva ursi seems to be the most effective in an alkaline enviroment so it may be helpful while using the herb to avoid cranberry juice, citrus, tomatoes, and other foods that might acidify the urine. Uva ursi has an astringent but not unpleasent flavor. Make a tea by pouring one cup of boiling water over two teaspoons of dried leaves. Steep for ten minutes, strain and drink three cups a day. As an alternative, take one-half teaspoon of liquid extract or two capsules three times a day. Although uva ursi is safe when used in recommended amounts, don't exceed the recommended dosage or use it for more than two weeks, because in high doses it can cause nausea and irritate the kidneys. DO NOT TAKE UVA URSI DURING PREGNANCY.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) Is also a potent antimicrobial that contains a natural antibiotic called berberine that is effective against many strains of harmful microorganisms, including E. Coli. In addition Goldenseal has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help to soothe inflamed mucous membranes. As with the Uva Ursi, the natural antibiotic in Goldenseal is most effective in an alkaline environment, so avoid eating acidifying foods while you are taking the herb. Pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of powdered herb. Steep ten minutes, strain, and drink three cups a day. Goldenseal is extremely bitter and is easiest to take as a liquid extract or in a capsules. Take one half to one teaspoon of extract or two to three capsules three tiems a day. Because it is a uterine stimulant, Goldenseal should not be used during pregnancy.
JUNIPER (JUNIPERUS COMMUNIS) berries contain an aromatic oil that has antimicrobial and diuretic properties. It steps up the fluid filtering rate of the kidneys, which increases urine output. Juniper Has a sweet, pungent, and astrigent flavor. To make a tea, pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of crushed berries,cover, and steep for 20 minutes. Strain, and drink up to three cups a day. Overuse of Juniper can irritate the kidneys, and the herb should not be used for more than four to six weeks at a time. If you have kidney disease or are pregnant do NOT USE JUNIPER.
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a gentle diuretic that has mild immune-enhancing properties. While it won't fight infection as do Uva Ursi or Goldenseal, it makes a soothing tea that helps to cleanse the bladder. Marshmallow has a pleasant, sweet flavor. Simmer one teaspoon of chopped dried root in one cup of boiling water in a covered pot for five minutes. Remove from heat and steep an additional ten minutes. Strain, and drink three to four cups throughout the day.
Alternative Bladder Cleansing Tea 3 tsp marshmallow root 2 teaspoons Dandelion Leaf 2 tsp. Crushed Juniper Berries 3. Tsp. Nettle 4 cups. water Simmer Marshmallow root in water in a covered pot for five minutes. Remove from heat and add dandelion leaf, Juniper Berries, and Nettle. Cover, and steep for 15 minutes. Strain and drink 3-4 cups throughout the day. |
Alternative Infection-Fighting Formula
1oz. UVA URSI extract
1/2oz. Goldenseal extract
1/2 oz echinacea root extract
combine extracts in a dark glass bottle and shake well. Take 1 teaspoon four times a day in a small amount of warm water
Aromatherapy Bath 2 2cp. Epsom Salts 1cp. baking Soda 6drops Sandalwood Essential Oil Fill Bath Tub with Comfortably hot water, adding epsom salts and baking soda while the tub is filling. Add sandalwood and juniper essential oils just before entering the tub. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. |