Natural remedies for cystitis that offer immediate relief

Cystitis: one of the main issues people ask about repeatedly at the pharmacy counter, especially women. You have probably had it at some point and not known exactly what was happening to you. At Farmaciasdirect, we are going to talk about it, how to recognise it, and how to prevent it and keep it under control.

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder. It can be painful and uncomfortable. It affects people of all ages, but it is more common in women because of their anatomy. It is a urinary tract infection.

Sometimes, if it is not treated promptly and properly, it can spread to the kidneys and cause more serious problems. That is why it is important to pay attention to the symptoms and deal with it in time.

Why does cystitis occur?

Cystitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, and in most cases it is caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli). This bacterium is naturally found in the gut, but it can move towards the urethra and bladder and cause the condition. For this reason, it is more common in women, as their urethra is shorter.

Although it is often caused by the spread of E. coli, it can also occur for other reasons:

• Sexual intercourse encourages bacteria to enter.
• Lowered defences: the immune system is weakened and will not act as effectively.
• Holding in urine and delaying going to the toilet for too long, as this encourages the growth of bacteria.
• Hormonal changes, such as menstruation or the menopause.

Symptoms of cystitis

Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Needing to urinate, urgently and frequently.
• Pain, stinging or burning when urinating.
• A feeling that you have not fully emptied your bladder.
• Cloudy urine, unpleasant smell.
• Pain in the lower abdomen.
• There may be blood in the urine.

Cystitis vs urine infection

Did you know that cystitis and a urine infection are not exactly the same thing? Cystitis is a type of urine infection that affects the lower urinary tract. But a urine infection can be different, depending on which part of the urinary tract it affects:

• Urethritis: the infection affects the urethra.
• Cystitis: the infection affects the bladder.
• Pyelonephritis: the infection affects the kidneys.

As pharmacists, we can offer some tips and recommendations to prevent cystitis, space out flare-ups, reduce its symptoms and even treat it.

Remedies for cystitis

There are natural remedies for cystitis or urine infection formulated with specific active ingredients that:

• Prevent and delay the onset of cystitis in cases of recurrent cystitis.
• Help eliminate cystitis and relieve symptoms.

Some of the most widely used active ingredients as a natural remedy for cystitis are:

• American cranberry: Makes it harder for E. coli to stick to the walls of the urinary tract. It can help prevent and tackle cystitis.
• D-mannose: is a sugar that stops bacteria from adhering to the bladder. It helps prevent and relieve symptoms.
• Bearberry: antimicrobial action.
• Horsetail: Thanks to its diuretic effect, it helps remove the bacteria that cause the infection.
• Peppermint and oregano: with antibacterial, antiseptic and analgesic properties.
• Goldenrod: acts as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.
• Probiotics: strengthen the flora or microbiota typical of the area to help prevent infection. The strains usually used are Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri.

With this in mind, some of our recommended food supplements for treating cystitis are:

Aboca Cistilene

Food supplement containing bearberry and goldenrod to improve urinary tract function. Aboca Cistilene also contains essential oils of cinnamon, sage and juniper, which have antibacterial properties.

It helps reduce the pain and inflammation that occur during the infection process, so it is recommended for people with cystitis or mild to moderate infections.

Take 2 capsules at lunch and 2 capsules at dinner, with a large glass of water.

Pranarom Aromafémina Vías Urinarias

Pranarom Aromafemina Confort Vías Urinarias is a food supplement which, thanks to its composition rich in peppermint and other ingredients (oregano, lemon, Chinese cinnamon), helps keep the urinary tract in good condition, relieve pain and strengthen the immune system.

It can be taken by adults and children from 12 years old. Take 2-3 capsules a day with meals for 1 week.

Tips to prevent cystitis

If you are looking for immediate relief for your urine infection, in addition to the recommended supplements, follow our pharmacists' advice.

• Drink 1-2 litres of water a day.
• Do not hold in the urge to urinate.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing.
• Wear underwear made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton.
• Maintain good intimate hygiene.
• Urinate and wash the area after sexual intercourse.
• Do not leave the intimate area damp, for example during periods of swimming pool or beach use.
• Take food supplements.

Remember that you should see a doctor if...

Remember that if symptoms persist or get worse, you should see a doctor. The same applies if you experience a fever, blood in the urine or pain in the kidney area. You should also seek medical advice if it happens repeatedly.