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From cranberry to goldenseal, we spell out what really works.
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Uva-Ursi
Uva-ursi, a shrub found in mountainous areas of North America, contains several chemicals with antiseptic properties, including arbutoside, which becomes a form of hydroquinone as it passes through the bladder system and helps fight infection, a fact that Native Americans realized centuries ago. On the down side, however, uva-ursi can be toxic. Hydroquinone is potentially carcinogenic and has been shown to cause liver damage in large quantities and as a result, doctors are cautious in suggesting the herb for extended use.
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Goldenseal
While perhaps most popular for the rumor that it can mask drug use during urine tests (and the research is inconclusive on that), this herb contains the compound berberine, which can prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of urethra, similar to the proanthocyanidins in cranberries. Scientists and doctors agree, however, that more research needs to be done before the plant can be deemed a verified UTI preventative measure or treatment.
Other Options
Some of the most popular alternative choices to the treatments discussed above include:
- Echinacea, an immune system stimulant with antibiotic and antioxidant effects that may help fight early UTIs
- Baking soda taken with water, which can supposedly neutralize acidic urine and ease pain and symptoms, though evidence is limited
- Vitamin C, which acidifies the urine and inhibits the growth of bacteria.
MORE: Alternative Medicine Guide
Nicolai also says that simple measures such as limiting coffee, alcohol and white flour intake, as well as staying well hydrated and urinating before and after intercourse to cleanse the urethra of bacteria can keep your bladder system healthy, lowering any chance of a UTI to begin with.
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