Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Overviews

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common infection that affects the urinary system – including the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. It occurs when harmful bacteria, most often E. coli, enter the urinary tract. UTIs are more common in women than in men.

Causes

• Bacteria from the anus entering the urinary tract (often E. coli)
• Poor personal hygiene
• Holding urine for long periods
• Sexual activity without proper cleanliness
• Use of unclean public toilets
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes or pregnancy (increases risk)

Symptoms

• Burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate, even if little comes out
• Cloudy, dark, or strong smelling urine
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Blood in urine (in severe cases)
• Fever or chills (if it has spread to the kidneys)

Diagnosis

• Urinalysis: test to detect bacteria or pus in the urine
• Urine culture: identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection
• Physical symptoms are often enough to start treatment

Herbal Remedies

1. Garlic (Raw or Extract)
   • Use: Antibacterial, eat 2 raw cloves daily or use garlic water as an internal flush
   • Local name (Nigeria): Ayuu
   • How to prepare: Crush raw garlic, soak in warm water for 30 minutes, and drink.
2. Corn Silk (Zea mays)
   • Use: Acts as a natural diuretic to flush bacteria.
   • Preparation: Boil corn silk in water and drink as tea 2x daily.
3. Bitter Leaf (Vernonia amygdalina)
   • Use: Natural antibiotic and detox herb.
   • How to use: Blend washed bitter leaf with water, sieve, and drink once or twice daily.
4. Uva Ursi (Bearberry)
   • Use: Antiseptic herb used traditionally for UTIs.
   • Caution: Not for long-term use or pregnancy.

When to See a Doctor

• If symptoms persist beyond 2-3 days
• If you have fever, chills, or back pain
• If pregnant or diabetic
• If you notice blood in your urine
• Always combine herbal care with proper hydration and hygiene practices.