Cystitis

Bladder Infection (Cystitis)

Bladder infection, also known as cystitis, happens when bacteria—usually from outside the body—enter the urinary tract and infect the bladder and urethra. Women are more commonly affected due to their shorter urethra, which is closer to the anus and vagina, making bacterial entry easier.

Symptoms

• Frequent, urgent need to urinate

• Burning or pain during urination

• Feeling like the bladder isn’t fully emptied

• Cramping or lower abdominal pain

• Sometimes blood in the urine

• In some cases, mild irritation without pain

Causes

• Most bladder infections are caused by E. coli bacteria from the bowel.

• Poor genital hygiene, especially in women, can increase risk.

• Men can also get infections due to prostate problems or exposure to cold.

• Use of antibiotics, oral contraceptives, poor diet, and stress may weaken immunity and increase susceptibility.

• Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause similar symptoms.

Important Warning Signs

If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause serious issues. See a healthcare professional if you have:

• High fever

• Severe back pain

• Blood in urine

• Symptoms that don’t improve with treatment

Chronic Bladder Inflammation: Interstitial Cystitis

This is a long-term condition where the bladder’s tissues are inflamed, but not due to infection. It can be hard to diagnose because urine tests usually show no bacteria, and antibiotics don’t help.

• Causes discomfort and frequent symptoms similar to bladder infection.

• Can worsen with certain foods, medications, cold, or damp conditions.

• May lead to bladder tissue damage over time.

• Diet and lifestyle changes often improve symptoms.

Natural Support: Herbs and Supplements

Certain vitamins and herbs can help fight bladder infections and support bladder health:

• Vitamin C: Increases urine acidity to fight bacteria and boosts immunity. If it causes loose stools, reduce the dose. Avoid regular vitamin C with interstitial cystitis; use calcium ascorbate instead.

• Vitamin A & Beta-carotene: Help maintain healthy bladder lining and support immunity.

• Vitamin E: Improves oxygen supply to tissues and reduces scarring.

• Zinc: Strengthens the immune system.

• Garlic capsules: Natural antibacterial effect.

• Acidophilus (probiotics): Helps prevent yeast-related bladder infections, especially when taking antibiotics.

• Green food supplements (chlorella, spirulina): Promote cell renewal for chronic infections.

Helpful Herbal Teas

Brew 1 teaspoon of herbs in a cup of boiling water, steep 15 minutes, strain, and drink 3 times daily. Useful herbs include:

• Horsetail (improves urine flow and strengthens bladder tissues)

• Bearberry leaves & chamomile (combine for persistent infections)

• Dandelion, lemon balm, stinging nettle, birch leaves, yarrow, parsley, rose hips (individually helpful for symptoms)

Aromatherapy

Essential oils like Palma Rosa can be supportive for bladder health.

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathy offers specific treatments based on symptoms and personality traits. Common remedies include:

• Cantharis: Burning pain, frequent urge, difficulty urinating, blood in urine

• Equisetum: Urge to urinate without relief, burning pain, bedwetting

• Mercurius corrosivus: Constant urge, little urine passed, blood and mucus in urine

• Sarsaparilla: Burning pain during and after urination, worse when sitting

• Staphysagria: Urge but difficulty urinating, burning sensation, symptoms after intercourse

Additional Tips for Prevention & Recovery

• Rest and keep warm, especially feet and lower body.

• Use warm compresses, sitz baths, or foot baths to relieve symptoms.

• Wear natural fiber underwear (cotton or wool) to keep the genital area warm and dry.

• Practice pelvic floor exercises (stop and start urine flow midstream) to strengthen bladder control.

• Women should wipe front to back and avoid douching or vaginal deodorants.

• Both partners should shower before sex and urinate afterward to reduce infection risk.

• Never hold urine for long periods; urinate when you feel the need.

Typical Dosages for Supplements