After experiencing a string of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and being prescribed a new round of antibiotics each time, I decided to search for a natural remedy. The continuous use of antibiotics allows the development of bacteria that can grow resistant to the antibiotic. Plus, antibiotics get rid of both good and bad bacteria. Here are some natural cures for UTIs.
While searching for a natural remedy, I discovered two supplements, D-Mannose and Oil of Oregano.
What is D-Mannose And How Does It Cure UTIs
D-Mannose is a simple sugar, similar to glucose, that is derived naturally from fruits and some plants. You may have heard that cranberry juice can heal a UTI. What gave rise to that belief is the fact that cranberry juice actually has some D-Mannose, a very small amount, not enough to cure a UTI.
The sugars in D-Mannose coat the lining of the urinary tract and bladder and surround bacterial cells making it impossible for them to stick to the walls of the bladder or urinary tract. The free-floating bacteria are flushed out of the body in the urine.
Eight million people each year experience a UTI. Most susceptible are women over 40 or women experiencing menopause. Women are more susceptible because of the short distance from the vagina and urethra and the anus. Menopausal women experience a drop in estrogen which can weaken the vaginal wall and the urethra. The bacteria responsible for the UTIs is Escherichia coli (E.coli) which is responsible for about 90% of all UTIs. E.coli is a normal bacteria found in the gastrointestinal system but can infiltrate the urinary tract. When E.coli enters the urinary system it will cause an infection.
What is the Dosage of D-Mannose Needed for UTIs
To clear up your infection, take 1 level teaspoon dissolved in 8 ounces of water once a day (or follow the recommended dosage from the brand you are using). It will dissolve clear and have a slightly sweet taste (D-Mannose does not interfere with your body’s own blood sugar regulation). Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water to flush your bladder and urinary tract. Symptoms subside within the hour and are completely gone within 24 to 48 hours. If not, see your doctor right away.
How Oil of Oregano Helps UTIs
Not only does Oil or Oregano help UTIs but it can cure other infections as well. It contains compounds of thymol, Carvacrol, and terpenes which eliminate free radicals and harmful bacteria. Research shows that the main ingredient, Carvacrol, may be effective in boosting the immune system by fighting certain types of bacteria associated with the upper respiratory system and other infections. See my article for more information on the benefits of Oil of Oregano.
How Much Oil of Oregano Should I Take For UTIs
The dosage would depend on the kind of oil of oregano you purchase. I look for oil of oregano that contains 70% of Carivaciol in capsule form. I generally take 2 pills per day for about one week to cure a UTI.
Other things you Can Do For Urinary Tract Health
According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, here are some steps women can take to maintain the health of their urinary tract:
- Drink plenty of pure, filtered water every day
- Urinate when you feel the need; don’t resist the urge to go
- Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering your urethra
- Take showers instead of tub baths; avoid hot tubs/Jacuzzis
- Cleanse your genital area prior to sexual intercourse
- Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, which may irritate your urethra
- Use only white unscented toilet paper to avoid potential dye reactions, or better yet—a bidet
Also Dr. Mercola notes (For both men and women), a healthy diet is key in supporting your urinary tract.
Research shows that frequent consumption of products containing probiotic bacteria can promote good urinary tract health—fermented foods such as kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented vegetables are great for your overall health—including your urinary system.
This information is not intended to replace medical advice from your Physician. If you decide to try these remedies, please discuss it with your Doctor.
Have you tried D-Mannose or Oil of Oregano? What was your experience?
Resources:
https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/04/28/D-Mannose-uti-prevention.aspx
https://www.stoputiforever.com/symptoms/5-main-uti-causes/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27424995 A Pilot Study showing the effectiveness of D-Mannose
https://www.livestrong.com/article/125096-benefits-D-Mannose/
Updated August 2020. Originally published October 2018.
What a great alternative than going to the doctors for antibiotics. I personally dont like taking medicine.
Thank you Amber. D-Mannose is a great alternative.
This is a great idea! I always love looking for natural ways to cure some ailments… I always resort to Cranberry juice… good to know that there are more ways to cure this UTI.
My mom recently had this and was given antibiotic. I will recommend to her to look into D-Mannose as alternative in the future. Thanks for sharing.