Coochie Cure #1: Urinary Infection - Cranberry Juice, Echinacea, Probiotics

Recently I wrote about how my reluctance to stay hydrated and take regular trips to the bathroom led to a painful urinary tract infection.  Ouch.

Well, one thing you’ll learn about me is that I DON’T VISIT DOCTORS.  I’d say I don’t “believe” in doctors, but I don’t wanna risk offending my readers.   :-D  Yes, I’m one of those “wacko” vegans who believes in homeopathy and the healing power of a healthy diet.  (Sorry if that turns you off…  But don’t fear, I don’t thrust my beliefs on others…  I respect everyone’s right to her opinion.)

This was my second time getting such an infection, and both times, what cured it was

1. Cranberry juice.  Unsweetened, not from concentrate, mixed with water.  I take it in the form of pills, too, and have never tested to see if one works without the other.  (Sweeten w/apple juice or grape juice if it’s too bitter.)
2. Echinacea.  I take it as a liquid tincture…y’know, the drops.  Alcohol or glycerin base.  And I’m not really scientific - I just take a dropper full (or two) whenever I remember during the day (maybe 6 times?).  Reportedly Echinacea shouldn’t be taken for sustained periods of time - some caution not to use it every day for more than a month.  If I’m sick, I usually take it at least twice a day for 3-4 days.
3. Probiotics.  Probiotics are the friendly bacteria in your stomach and intestinal track that help you digest food.  Since I believe all health stems from the gut, I try to help my gut do its job better.  I’ve even been told by a wonderful young woman at my health food store that making a PASTE of probiotics and water and applying it topically to the urethra can help with any burning.  (Although, my pain has been more internal than that, so I haven’t tried this method.)

Now, for the record: I AM NOT A DOCTOR OR HEALTH PRACTITIONER OF ANY KIND.  So don’t hold me responsible for this information I’m sharing with you.  I am simply sharing my experience.  You must do what you feel is best, including seeking and following the advice of your doctor.

I’ll say this…after my first infection was healed, I went for a check-up/pap (which I do about once every 7 years).  The nurse said to me, “No, I’m sure you didn’t cure an infection with Echinacea.  I’ve never heard of that.”

I told her to let me know if my test results revealed that the infection was still present.  I never heard back from her.  That was four years ago.

Just wanted to share this with anyone who, like me, is always scanning the internet for natural, healthy treatment alternatives.

What other non-medical remedies do you swear by?

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