A urinary tract or bladder infection is a type of infection that starts somewhere in the urinary system.  It can involve the bladder (most commonly) but can also involve the kidneys, the ureter and the urethra.  The ureters carry urine away from the kidneys and the urethra takes urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.  The urinary tract infection is believed to be the second most common infection of the body and about 8-10 million individuals in the US get some kind of urinary tract infection, most of them being women.

The symptoms of a urinary tract infection include an increased urge to urinate, the passage of small amounts of urine, burning or pain on urination and urine that looks cloudy or bloody. If the urinary tract infection has passed beyond the bladder to involve the kidneys or ureters, the individual will notice pain in the abdomen, side or back, fever, vomiting, chills or nausea.  This is a more severe infection than a bladder infection.

One natural treatment for handling a bladder infection is to make the urine more antiseptic. Certain herbs will make the bladder more antiseptic. Cranberry or blueberry juice can both prevent and treat bladder infections.  They have antibiotic properties and block the ability of bacteria to stick to the urinary track tissue.  Pick a juice that has been sweetened with grape or apple juice.

There are herbal remedies for dealing with urinary tract infections that work best if they are high quality, standardized formulas. Impure formulas can have bad side effects.  The herbal remedies that work well include goldenseal root which has long been used as an antimicrobial agent. One drinks it as a tea 3-4 times a day.  Capsule forms and tinctures also work well.  Another herb is called uva ursi that has strengthening and particularly soothing properties.  It can be drunk as a tea with two teaspoons of hot water in it to as a premade tincture.

Other herbs to use as a healthful tea for urinary tract infections include cleavers tea, which has long been used against urinary tract infections, marshmallow root tea, best used cold, buchu, which acts as a diuretic and urinary tract antiseptic, corn silk tea, which acts as a diuretic, horsetail tea, that can help heal the tissues and Usnea, a urinary tract antiseptic.

In addition, one should drink at least 2-3 liters of fresh water every day.

Homeopathic remedies have been suggested for the treatment of urinary tract infections. They are delivered as small pellets. Some herbal remedies include Cantharis, used for urinary urgency and burning, Apis mellifica, for stinging pain, Staphysagria, for UTIs caused by sexual intercourse, and Sarsasparilla, for use in urinary tract pain that burns once the urinating has stopped. My favorite source for homeopathic medicine is this one.

Other treatments for dealing with urinary tract infection include the application of castor oil packs that are applied to the skin to help the pain associated with cramping of the bladder or pelvis.  Sitz baths aid in soothing the pain of the urethral opening.  Adding goldenseal adds an antimicrobial and soothing effect on the urinary tract infection.

Cranberry juice serves to make the urinary tract more acidic which inhibits the growth and attachment of the bacteria due to the presence of proanthocyanins that prevent the infecting bacteria from attaching to the side of the bladder wall and when one drinks fluids, the bacteria wash away. Cranberry tablets have been found to be more effective than just juice.  The juice should be without sweetening.

The use of aromatherapy can help, particularly when one uses 20 drops each of eucalyptus and sandalwood.  Reflexology to the bladder areas of the feet can help halt urinary tract infections when done properly.

Having a baby is one of the most joyous times in any couples lives. The addition of a baby brings with it great changes, but for some couples, they find that a return to pre-baby sex is also greatly affected.

Painful sex after pregnancy is not only a surprise for most women, but also an embarrassing topic. Many are not aware that this is a common issue that many women experience after childbirth. There can be several causes for this condition, and there are ways to help eliminate the pain. The good news is that most women report that by their baby’s first birthday, things are back to normal!

Birth-Heal - $ 26.95 Birth-Heal tablets are specially formulated to relieve the pain and discomfort experienced after labor, childbirth or a Caesarean section, increase the rate of healing, ease digestive problems and calm frazzled nerves.

One cause of painful sex after pregnancy can be directly related to hormones. After pregnancy a woman’s hormones are changing and many are breastfeeding which also has an affect on hormones. This can result in insufficient lubrication during intercourse. This is not a reflection on the new mom’s desire for intimacy, but rather a byproduct of childbirth. A water based lubricant, which can be found at area drugstores, is one way to ease the discomfort brought on by hormone changes.

Another issue for many women after childbirth is scar tissue from an episiotomy or tearing. This area can be very tender for weeks after childbirth, and it is not uncommon for women who have had an episiotomy to have painful sex after pregnancy. If the condition persists, it is important to talk with you health provider to make sure there is not infection present in the area. Also, this may be a good time to try different positions during lovemaking which may alleviate the pain. Again, the good news is that this kind of painful sex after pregnancy doesn’t appear to be a chronic problem for most women.

Kegal exercises may also help women who are experiencing painful sex after pregnancy. These exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles getting the pelvic region back in shape after giving birth. They also help with incontinence, a problem that is experienced by many women. Kegal exercises are done by lying on the floor with the legs bent. Pull up the muscles within the pelvic region, this should feel like the rectum and the vagina is being closed off. Kegal exercises can also be done while sitting or standing, but it is good to initially start by lying on the floor.

Vaginismus is another condition that can occur for some women. This happens when the muscles in the opening of the vagina spasm as a reflex to expected pain. Since childbirth is painful, women can experience this condition when they first resume intercourse. It is very important to discuss with your partner if you are experiencing anxiety about painful sex after pregnancy. Talking with your partner is truly one of the best remedies to painful sex after pregnancy.

It is important to keep in mind that painful sex after pregnancy is common; most women experience it to some degree. Not only are there hormonal and physical reasons for painful sex after pregnancy, but many women are just plain tired! Having a baby and caring for them can be exhausting; so make sure to take care of yourself too. Take the time to rest when your baby does, eat right and remember to drink plenty of water. Making time for you is another key in returning to sexual intimacy, so don’t neglect yourself!

Lastly, there may be natural products that you can take to speed up the healing process after childbirth. One such product is Birth-Heal.
Use Birth-Heal to:

* Speed up recovery from labor and childbirth
* Promote healing of perineal damage from the inside out
* Relieve the aches and pains experienced after labor
* Assist with healing after a Caesarean birth
* Relieve digestive discomfort and prevent constipation
* Impart a sense of calm and relaxation

Birth-Heal

There are certain foods that naturally contain substances that make us feel good by interacting with our hormones or stimulating our brain. Consider incorporating some of the following into your next candlelight dinner to help you and your spouse get in the mood.
Oysters are a good source of minerals like selenium and zinc, and are also high in protein. A perfect appetizer to a beautiful meal.

Chocolate has been a symbol of love and lust for centuries due to theobromine, a stimulant to the brain that creates a pleasurable effect. Chocolate also contains antioxidants that may lower cancer and heart disease risk. However, chocolate is also very high in fat, so self-restraint should be exercised. Dark chocolates are usually lower in sugar, but higher in antioxidants and theobromine than milk chocolate.

Kiwi and papaya are colorful fruits have an alluring and interesting aspect about them that can help flip the switch. Loaded with antioxidants, tropical fruits help fend off heart disease and cancers. Kiwi actually has more vitamin C in it than an orange, and papaya is rich in beta-carotene and high in fiber.

Asparagus can also help get you in the mood. It’s one of the few good sources of vitamin E and is a natural diuretic. Steaming is the best way to prepare them without losing nutrients, and they can easily be eaten by hand.

A good cup of coffee or tea after that romantic dinner stimulates the release of epinephrine, which contributes to stimulation in the body. It can also be found in dark chocolate. Just don’t consume too much caffeine before bed, unless you plan on being awake all night long!

If you’re experiencing Low sex drive, it could be due to poor nutrition………

The above is excerpted from my Superfoods ecourse. To continue reading, please use the sign up form below.

We all know that the sun’s rays can be damaging to the skin. Boost your beauty regimen with these natural sun deterrents.

Studies show that aloe vera helps protect skin cells from the damaging effects of the sun. Because of its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, emollient, and antimicrobial properties, it is ideal for after-sun care.

Just when you thought green tea just couldn’t possibly get any better, it turns out that it also protects the skin. Whether consumed or placed directly on the skin, it protects skin cells and reduces inflammation.

Calendula, like aloe vera, is wonderful for soothing the skin after sun exposure.

You may remember when coconut oil was all the rage for sun protection. Now we know that sesame oil blocks 30% of the sun’s rays, while coconut oil, along with olive oil and peanut oil, only block 20%.

While you won’t want to throw out your sunscreens, these are valuable additions to your medicine cabinet and to your daily beauty routine.

Want to learn how to make your own suntan lotion, creams and natural facials? Sign up for my Homemade Beauty Tips ecourse, to find out how.

You may have heard about the wonders of turmeric. There are numerous studies pointing to its effectiveness in battling various cancers including cancer of the lungs, colon, kidney, liver and breast.

So why is turmeric so effective? First off, turmeric breaks down toxins in the liver. This helps prevent the accumulation of carcinogens. Turmeric also happens to be a very effective anti-inflammatory. Because inflammation is part of the progression of cancer, this serves as a powerful component. Turmeric is also an anti-oxidant and effectively stimulates the immune system. Finally, it keeps you fit by helping your body assimilate fats, thereby promoting healthy weight loss.

As if that weren’t enough, turmeric specifically helps fight breast cancer in two ways. First, turmeric helps the body process estrogen-like chemicals that later lead to an increase in cell division and possibly beast cancer. It also blocks a particular enzyme (COX-2) that has been found responsible for breast cancer.

So how can you start reaping the benefits of turmeric? Look for the powdered root in your local health food store. Be sure that you buy high quality, organic turmeric and not just what the grocery store happens to have on its shelves. There are also capsules available for your convenience.

Nutritional Supplements To Reduce The Risk Of Breast Cancer

Essiac: A Native Herbal Cancer Remedy - In 1922, Rene Caisse, a Canadian nurse, made a discovery that would change her life and the course of cancer therapy. Caisse received the formula for an herbal remedy through a patient who had been successfully treated for breast cancer by a Native American medicine man. With this herbal cancer remedy, which she called Essiac, Caisse would go on to treat thousands of patients at an incredible recovery rate of 80%!

Mamo Guard - contains 28 different herb which he have been proven beneficial in cases of breast hyperplasia, lumps, acute or suppurative mastitis, inflammation and breast cellulitis, fibrocystic breast, and more.

Breast Support Wellness Oil - this oil is designed to help remove toxins from the breast and will help to support and drain the lymphatic system. It is developed specifically for the breast tissue, and is a must have for any woman’s medicine cabinet as a preventative measure for breast cancer.

Natural Progesterone Cream for Women - your body needs natural progesterone. Natural Progesterone cream helps women reduce the severity of PMS symptoms lessen the effects of menopause and counter-balance the effects of estrogen dominance, Infertility, Migraines, Fibrocystic Breast, Skin Care, and Acne. For women, who suffer from hysterectomy symptoms, menstrual conditions, female health conditions, hormone deficiencies, menopause hot flashes, osteoporosis or thinning bones, pms. Reduces breast cancer risk, hair loss, fat gain from estrogen dominance, menopause acne, migraine headaches, and much more.

Super Lignan - herbal estrogen supplement - uper Lignan is an ideal herbal estrogen supplement for supporting breast health and helps alleviate breast tenderness and pain associated with the menstrual cycle.

For a complete list of nutritional supplements that reduce the risk of breast cancer, please visit: Breast Cancer Protection Supplements.

There are a number of natural treatments out there. It’s never too early to start prevention.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Mellow Mood Tea

This tea is made with the most palatable of the calming herbs. Blended together, they’ll defuse stress and anxiety and promote sound sleep.

WHAT YOU NEED

1 teaspoon chamomile flowers
1 teaspoon lavender spikes
1 teaspoon kava leaves
1 teaspoon lemon balm leaves
1 teaspoon marjoram
1 spray valerian flowers
1 quart water

WHAT TO DO

In a large saucepan, steep the chamomile, lavender, kava, lemon balm, marjoram, and valerian to taste in the freshly boiled water. Strain out the plant material. Drink the tea hot or cool as often as needed, refrigerating any left over for later use.

CAUTION: Chamomile is in the rag weed family, and many are allergic to rag weed.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Less Stress Tea

Relieves stress, relaxes low back and neck areas.

1 part chamomile
1 part mint
1 part calendula flowers

Place all herbs in a tea ball or bag, put in your nicest or most favorite cup or mug, and cover with boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes.

Remove tea ball or bag, and add sugar, honey, sweetener, milk, cream or whatever, to taste.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Colds and Flu Tea

1 oz Blackberry leaves
1 oz Elder flowers
1 oz Linden flowers
1 oz Peppermint leaves

Pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 tbs mixture. Cover & steep 10 minutes; strain.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Blues Tea

1 part Nettle leaves,
1 part St Johns wort tops
2 parts spearmint
1 part damiana leaves
1 part kava kava root
a tiny pinch of stevia to taste

Place all herbs in a tea ball or bag, put in your nicest or most favorite cup or mug, and cover with boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes.

Remove tea ball or bag, and add sugar, honey, sweetener, milk, cream or whatever, to taste.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Heartburn Tea

1 tablespoon Chamomile
1 table spoon Peppermint
2 pods Star Anise

Boil pods for 5 minutes and steep the chamomile and peppermint in the Anise tea. Drink one cup every hour for two hours before bedtime.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Constipation Tea

1/2 teaspoon Cascara Sagrada
1 teaspoon Chamomile
Take in one dose before bedtime. One coffee cup full should do it.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Dry, raspy cough

Licorice Root
Slippery Elm
Mullein
Catnip
Chamomile
Honey
Lemon 1 wedge

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Wise Woman Tea

A wonderful menopause tea. Gently calms, cools and balances.

1 part motherwort
1 part sage
1 part nettle leaves
1 part each lemon balm & mugwort leaves
1 part chaste tree berries
1 part horsetail

Place all herbs in a tea ball or bag, put in your nicest or most favorite cup or mug, and cover with boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes.

Remove tea ball or bag, and add sugar, honey, sweetener, milk, cream or whatever, to taste.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Sleep Tea Recipe

2 tbls. Hops
1 tsp. Lavender
1 tsp. Rosemary
1 tsp. Thyme
1 tsp. Mugwort
1 tsp. Sage
1 Pinch of Valerian Root

Take a teaspoon of the mixture and pour into 1 cup of hot water. Let sit for 3 minutes then strain. Store the unused portion.

The following herbal tea recipe is taken from The Ultimate Collection Of Herbal Tea Recipes, get your copy from Easy And Healthy Cooking Recipes.

Urinary Infection Tea

1 teaspoon uva ursi

½ teaspoon each corn silk, cramp bark, marshmallow root and rose hips

1 quart water

Simmer herbs in water for a couple of minutes, then steep them for 20 minutes. Strain herbs. Drink 2 to 4 cups daily. To make sure the infection is gone, continue taking the herbs for 2 days after the symptoms disappear