The term “holistic” is often used interchangeably with terms such as “natural”, “plant-based”, or “spiritual”. However, the term “holistic” refers to considering the whole person and how various systems- including physical, metaphysical, and social- interplay in regards to their health. Some may refer to this as “treating the person, not the disease”. When examining the human body, we see that there are so many organs, microbes, fluids and structures working together for the greater good. Symptoms are never in a vacuum, and traditional herbalism takes this into account. Lucky for us, our plant allies are versatile. Many plants support multiple organs and systems, and even moreso, they provide us with the comfort of their company.
The human body’s urinary system contains four organs: kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. A balanced body detoxifies itself, and these organs work together to do so. The kidneys filter waste and excess water from the blood, forming urine. The ureters act as transport, moving the urine to the bladder for storage. When full, the urine evacuates via the urethra. Various health concerns, from hygiene to enlarged prostate, can negatively compromise the system and impact the body’s ability to naturally detoxify.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common complaint among Smile’s customers. These infections are caused when bacteria, most often E. coli, enter the urethra and spread to other organs in the urinary system. Herbs can be supportive in preventing and managing UTIs, but it is important to note that it is a serious condition that can lead to permanent harm to the kidneys if not sufficiently treated. If UTI’s are recurrent or symptoms last 2 weeks or longer despite herbal intervention, it is best to work with your primary care doctor.
Plant ally: Cranberry
Cranberries are anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. Some researchers theorize that cranberries create a protective film over the urinary system that prevents E. coli sticking to the urinary walls. While the results on the effectiveness of cranberries for UTIs vary, it is generally believed that cranberries may be best for prevention for people who find themselves especially prone to UTIs.
Planetary Herbals: Cranberry Bladder Defense, may be a good choice as it features herbs with antimicrobial, immunity, and soothing actions.
Solarays: Pygeum & Saw Palmetto CranAction, is a wonderfully formulated product that can be supportive to men who want to address prostate concerns that impact urinary function. The formulation contains multiple herbs that tonify the prostate gland while also managing inflammation and keeping out bacteria.
Plant ally: Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi is the second ingredient in Planetary Herbals: Cranberry Bladder Defense and first ingredient in Smile’s Urinary Tract Infusion Tea. Uva Ursi is both soothing and strengthening to an irritated urinary tract. It is also a strong disinfectant that has been traditionally used in the management of acute urinary and kidney problems.
You may also find Uva Ursi in Herbalist & Alchemists: UT Compound, which features additional herbal support for kidneys and detoxification.
The Herbal & Alchemists brand also avails Uva Ursi on its own in a tincture.
Plant ally: Agrimony
Agrimony is specific to the tonification of the urinary tract. The herb is also anti-inflammatory and supportive to the liver. But what is most beautiful about Agrimony is that it may also be supportive for relieving emotional tension. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the kidneys and larger urinary system are associated with the fear emotion. Oftentimes when we are struggling with a recurring health concern with no end in sight, we can be overtaken by fear, and that fear may even hinder our recovery. There are so many options and it can be hard to know where to turn.
Agrimony has been used spiritually as a protection amulet and support for accepting life’s challenges. Whether working with agrimony via the Herbalist & Alchemist: UT Compound or taking prescribed pharmaceuticals, affirm to yourself: “I am secure. I am protected.”
Affirmations of safety can be said to oneself while consuming your medicine or over your medication in a charging ritual or prayer.
Trust your medicine and trust your body’s ability to heal. And remember, if you find yourself needing additional support, Smile has a network of many knowledgeable and holistic-minded herbalists who can partner with you and your medical care providers for solutions.
For More Information/Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/cranberries-for-uti-protection
The post Systems On Systems: Herbs for the Urinary Tract appeared first on Smile Herb School.
