Extremely common in women, cystitis can be acute or chronic. In the case of germ-free cystitis, it is possible to skip antibiotics. Discover all the natural treatments (homeopathy, grandmother’s remedy) to overcome this urinary tract infection. You are also told everything about cystitis: how is it caught and what are the means of prevention?
Summary
What is cystitis?
This urinary infection, or inflammation of the bladder, is very common. It is also the second reason for consulting a general practitioner.
Cystitis is manifested by urinary burns as well as very frequent urges to urinate. Despite the pressing desires, only a few drops are evacuated. On the other hand, heaviness can be felt in the pelvis or in the lower back.
Many urinary tract infections heal on their own, without the need for treatment. Generally, good hydration is enough.
Most of the time, it is women who are affected by cystitis for anatomical reasons.
How do we catch it?
Many bacteria can cause acute cystitis:
- most urinary tract infections are caused by the gut bacteria Escherichia coli (or E.coli);
- the other most common bacterium is called Staphylococcus saprophyticus. It is common in young women;
- the other bacteria Protéus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter are implicated in very rare cases.
The diagnosis of cystitis is made via a urine test using a reactive dipstick. Typically, this takes place at the doctor’s office.
Most often, the general practitioner prescribes antibiotic treatment to fight against the intestinal bacteria E.coli. In case of persistent symptoms, the treatment will be readjusted.
What are the natural treatments for cystitis?
Natural remedies do not replace drug treatments. However, there are foods and solutions known to have benefits for urinary tract infections.
cranberry juice
It is renowned for its antibacterial properties. These substances prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the mucous membranes of the urinary system.
Drink cranberry juice as a prevention in capsule form up to 4 times a day, before meals. And for three weeks.
No contraindication exists against this natural solution.
bilberry
Lingonberry has an antiseptic power on the urinary and intestinal tracts. Just dilute 6 drops of cranberry buds, sold in organic stores, in a tablespoon of mineral water. The operation will be performed morning and evening for a month and twice a year.
No contraindications. However, the drops must be necessarily diluted in water.
A poultice of green clay
This solution relieves pain in the lower abdomen. Apply the ready-to-use poultice to the bladder area. Green clay, it should be about 2 cm thick. From the signs of heat, remove the poultice and renew the operation if necessary.
This natural remedy is safe and has no contraindications.
A massage with essential oils
Some essential oils have decongestant and antiseptic properties. Massage your lower abdomen during a crisis, 3 to 4 times a day. Use a mixture of sandalwood, savory, tarragon and thujanol thyme essential oil (1 drop of each) as well as 5 drops of calophyllum essential oil.
Attention, essential oils should not be used in children and pregnant women.
A course of probiotics
Nothing like it to restore the vaginal flora abused by antibiotics. Use probiotics to boost the immunity of your mucous membranes.
This is a 2 month cure used in prevention or after taking antibiotics. This comes in the form of a capsule or sachet, to be taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water or fruit juice.
acupressure point
An acupressure point can facilitate the healing of cystitis. Stimulate the energy of your bladder by massaging the point located behind the external malleolus of the foot. This is the small bony growth, which is located on the outside of the ankle. You can also massage the hollow between the ring finger and the middle finger.
There are no contraindications for children. However, acupressure is not recommended for pregnant women.
Homeopathy
In the case of germ-free cystitis, a homeopathic treatment may be sufficient to prevent and relieve the symptoms.
In case of acute cystitis, take 3 granules every hour of Cantharis 5 CH and Mercurius Corrosivus 10 DH.
If you suffer from chronic or recurrent cystitis, take 3 granules every evening of Lycopodium 7 CH (if red sediment in the urine), Sepia 5 CH (in case of feeling of heaviness in the bladder or cystitis of pregnancy), Pareira Brava 4 CH (need to urinate constantly) and Staphysagria 7 CH (especially for cystitis occurring after sexual intercourse).
Prevention tips against cystitis
You should know that the occurrence of the disease results from several factors and habits.
Cystitis is not a sexually transmitted pathology. However, the level of bacteria in the urine increases after sexual intercourse. It is therefore recommended to urinate immediately afterwards.
Poor hygiene habits can also cause a urinary tract infection. Never wipe from back to front after having a bowel movement, for example.
The use of spermicides also promotes the occurrence of the disease.
In general, it is advisable to wear cotton underwear and not synthetic materials. Also avoid tight clothing which increases the risk of cystitis. Also favor soft intimate hygiene products and give up douching.
Finally, a lack of hydration or the fact of refraining from going to the toilet contribute to the occurrence of a urinary tract infection. Indeed, the urine stagnates in the bladder, which leads to colonization of bacteria.
