Natural Health: Cystitis

My sister suffers from recurring cystitis, which often affects her kidneys. Is there anything natural she could take to help, as she is at her wits’ end? Antibiotics no longer seem to work

Cystitis is very common in women, with E. coli accounting for 85% of cases of recurrent cystitis. The usual cause of recurrent cystitis is bacteria entering the bladder via the urethra, which is why females are more prone to this type of infection (the urethra is much shorter).

It is important your sister is careful with which products she uses, as well as making some diet and lifestyle tweaks. Avoiding the use of talcum powder and perfumed body products and soaps is important, along with fully emptying the bladder rather than ‘holding on’ when the urge arises.