A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common clinical condition caused by bacteria and is normally seen more often in women than men. This condition, if left untreated can lead to serious complication. Although antibiotics are prescribed to treat UTIs, there are few natural remedies that help deal with this condition in an effective manner. Apart from relieving pain and discomfort associated with UTI, these home remedies are quite safe and quick in action.
Lemon juice
Lemon is rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that alkalizes the body, lemon juice helps inhibit bacterial growth. It also acts as a diuretic agent that flushes out harmful toxins from the urinary tract thereby preventing the recurrence of UTI. To use this remedy, squeeze half a lemon in a glass of warm water and drink it in the morning to get rid of UTIs.
Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice contains antioxidants and other compounds that prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary bladder. In addition to this, drinking this juice flushes out the bacteria from the body thereby relieving the symptoms of UTI and its recurrence. Drink cranberry juice regularly to prevent and relieve UTI.
Pomegranate
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, pomegranate (known as anaar in Hindi) prevents bacteria from clinging to the bladder walls. The antioxidants flush the infection-causing bacteria from the body. Whereas vitamin C boosts the immune system to fight against the infection thereby combating the symptoms of urinary tract infection. All you need to do to get rid of UTI and prevent it from recurring, is to eat a bowl of pomegranate regularly.
Barley water
One of the best and quick home remedies to treat and prevent UTI is barley water. This water acts as a powerful diuretic that not only maintains the electrolyte balance in the body but also flushes out the harmful toxins from the body. To prepare barley water, add a spoonful of barley seeds in about three liters of water and allow it to boil till the water turns pinkish in color. Now, allow the water to cool at room temperature, filter and drink this water every 15 – 20 minutes. You can add some lemon juice, salt and sugar (to taste) to make the water tasty and electrolyte rich.
Heat pack
UTI causes pain and discomfort in the lower abdominal region due to the pressure exerted on the urinary bladder while urinating. Hence to minimize bladder discomfort and relieve UTI, heat pack acts as a perfect home remedy. Apply warm (not hot) heating pad on the abdomen regularly to ease the pressure and relieve common symptoms associated with urinary tract infection.
Curd
Curd contains natural antibiotics that play a key role in eliminating harmful bacteria from the body and thus, prevent UTI. Hence experts recommend consuming curd on a regular basis to keep UTI at bay. In addition to relieving urinary tract infection, the presence of good bacteria in curd provides positive effects on the overall body. Have a cup of curd everyday to help relieve the symptoms of UTI.
Water
The best way to both prevent and treat urinary tract infection is to drink plenty of water. This is one of the simplest yet effective remedy to prevent UTI naturally. Drinking more water flushes the infection-causing bacteria thereby aiding in easy recovery. Apart from prevention of UTI and its recurrence, staying hydrated helps to lose weight and moisturise your skin.
