Herbal Relief. There are many herbs which are very helpful in urinary tract infections. Which to choose really depends on personal preference. Herbal tinctures are known to have a more rapid effect than teas, so that is what we use, generally in small doses throughout the day. Our favorite herbs for bladder infections are Barosma betulina (Bucchu), Chimaphilia (Pipsissewa), Berberis aquifolia (Oregon grape), and Uva ursi (Bearberry). Other herbs commonly used for bladder infections are Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal), Zea mays (corn silk), and Althea officinalis (Marshmallow root).

A Few Do's And Don'ts. Do rest and do listen to what your body is trying to tell you through the infection. Do look for the underlying cause. It's important that you learn the lesson your bladder infection is trying to teach you so you don't have to go through it again. Do breathe into the pain and try to relax. We had one patient who cured a bladder infection solely through visualization and meditation. Don't have sex while you have an acute bladder infection. Don't wear a diaphragm or a cervical cap. 8Don't take a hot tub or extremely hot bath. Don't overstress yourself. Don't wear tight clothing around the abdomen and pelvis.

We hope that these tips will put an end to your discomfort from bladder infections and convince you that natural therapies can work beautifully, especially if you begin them at the first hint of a urinary infection. May your relief be rapid!

Drs. Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman are naturopathic and homeopathic physicians and cofounders of the Northwest Center for Homeopathic Medicine in Edmonds, WA. They are coauthors of The Patient's Guide to Homeopathic Medicine and Beyond Ritalin: Homeopathic Treatment of ADD and Other Behavioral and Learning Problems. They can be reached at (206) 774-5599.