PART 3. THE REMEDIES
7
UNDER THE UNDERWEAR
URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria multiplies in the urethral opening and travels up toward the bladder. Start using natural remedies as soon as you notice pain or an urgent need to urinate even though your bladder is already empty. If you develop a fever or symptoms fail to improve within two days, see your doctor for antibiotics.
Cranberry–Green Tea Tonic
YIELD:
½ GALLON
STORAGE: REFRIGERATE IN PITCHER
TIME: 15 MINUTES
Put a traditional cranberry UTI remedy into over-drive by pairing it with green tea. The combination more effectively reduces bladder inflammation and kills the infection-causing bacteria than fighting with cranberry alone.
4 cups boiling water
4 green tea bags
4 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
Honey or stevia (optional)
1.In a saucepan, combine the boiling water and green tea bags.
2.Steep for 15 minutes, then discard the tea bags.
3.In a pitcher, combine the green tea, cranberry juice, and honey or stevia, if desired.
4.Drink the entire pitcher of tea and juice over the course of the day.
5.Repeat each day while fighting a urinary tract infection.
Saw Palmetto Tea
YIELD: 1 CUP
STORAGE: NOT RECOMMENDED
TIME: 5 MINUTES
Like cranberries, saw palmetto berries are useful in treating urinary tract infections. Of all types of saw palmetto supplements available, extract provides relief fastest. Find it at a health food store or online.
1 tablespoon saw palmetto extract
1 cup hot water
Honey or stevia (optional)
1.In a mug, combine the saw palmetto extract, hot water, and honey or stevia, if desired, and drink.
2.Take twice daily for up to 3 days.
Saw palmetto extract has a slightly acidic taste. If you dislike the tea, blend the extract with about a tablespoon of cool water and drink it all at once.
Mullein Tea
YIELD: 1 CUP
STORAGE: NOT RECOMMENDED
TIME: 15 MINUTES
Mullein leaf has a soothing effect on the urinary tract. In addition, it acts as a mild diuretic that promotes urination, helping to flush bacteria from your bladder.
2 teaspoons dried mullein leaf, crumbled
1 cup boiling water
1.Put the mullein leaf in a tea ball or infuser, and place in a mug of boiling water.
2.Steep for 15 minutes. Drink.
3.Enjoy 2 to 3 cups daily for up to 3 days.
Mullein is a mild sedative. Do not drink this tea before driving or doing other tasks that require concentration.