Infections of the urinary bladder, or cystitis, are quite a common ailment, especially among women. Such infections are most common when women are in their reproductive years. Most bladder infections are caused by the accumulation of bacteria in the urinary tract. This also explains why women are more prone to such infections—due to the short length of the urethra and the proximity of the urethra to the vaginal and anal areas, where the presence of the bacteria is higher.
Some other factors that can lead to bladder infections are:
- Sexual intercourse, especially anal sex can increase the chances of contracting a bladder infection because there are more chances of the bacteria from the anus or vagina to enter the urethra.
- Pregnancy can also increase a woman’s susceptibility to a bladder infection. This is because the bladder is less likely to be emptied fully due to the undue stress placed on it because of the pregnancy.
- Using a diaphragm can also increase the risk of contracting such an infection. This is because the spermicide used with a diaphragm kills of the good bacteria in the vagina and allows the harmful bacteria to flourish.
- Improper flow of urine, either due to a stone in the urinary tract, pressure from an enlarged prostate, or other obstructions, can also lead to bladder infections.
Symptoms Of Bladder Infections
- Frequent urination or desire to urinate.
- A burning sensation while passing urine.
- Desire to urinate at night.
- Pus or presence of blood in the urine.
- Mild fever.
- Cloudy appearance of urine accompanied with a foul smell.
- Urinary incontinence
Aromatherapy for bladder infection cure
Although there are a number of allopathic medicines available for the treatment of bladder infections, aromatherapy is a good option for those looking for a more natural form of treatment. There are several aromatherapy essential oils that can be used to treat such infections. These oils are potent bactericides, so they are as effective in killing off the harmful bacteria that cause bladder infections as traditional allopathic medicine. What’s even better is the fact that aromatherapy essential oils have very few side effects, if any.
Some of the aromatherapy essential oils that can be used to treat bladder infection include:
- Bergamot
- Cajeput
- Chamomile
- Clary Sage
- Cypress
- Clove
- Juniper berry
- Peppermint
- Pine
- Rosemary
- Sandalwood
- Tea tree
The most common modes of application are by performing an aromatherapy massage with these essential oils over the affected area or by adding these essential oils to your bath. Do remember never to apply concentrated essential oil directly to your bare skin. It must always be diluted with a carrier oil before application.