Asparagus for Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, can occur anywhere along the urinary tract. For example, infections of the bladder, kidneys and urethra are classified as UTIs. Common symptoms of UTIs include fever, inflammation of the urinary tract, pain in the pelvic area and burning during urination. Asparagus, a common vegetable is also used as medicinal plant in oriental medicine. If you suffer from a UTI, you may benefit from asparagus supplements because they may have antibacterial qualities, reduce inflammation of the urinary tract and help boost the immune system. Talk to a doctor before taking asparagus or any other natural supplement.

Asparagus Fights Bacteria

Asparagus was found to inhibit various bacteria in tube tests, according to a study published in April 2008 issue of “African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine.” This study used ethanol extract of dry powdered roots of Asparagus racemosus, and 18 strains of bacteria were tested and inhibited by this supplement 2. Further research in humans is warranted to fully confirm the antibacterial effects of asparagus 4.

Asparagus Boosts the Immune System

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A healthy immune system helps fight infections, including those that affect the urinary tract. According to the results of a study published in March 2011 in “Steroids,” asparagus roots help boost the immune system. This was an in vitro test that used an extract isolated from asparagus roots. The authors concluded that asparagus is a potent stimulant of the immune system.

Asparagus Reduces Inflammation

An herbal combination of asparagus and parsley called Asparagus-P helps reduce inflammation of the urinary tract, particularly in the kidneys, is the conclusion of a study featured in March 2008 issue of “Phytotherapy Research.” In this study Asparagus-P decreased inflammation of the kidneys and improved their function 4. The authors indicate that Asparagus-P acts by reducing the activity of free radicals, which are involved in inflammation and cellular damage.

Considerations

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UTIs have to be promptly treated with antibiotics. Otherwise, bacteria may infect other organs or enter the blood stream, leading to a dangerous condition called sepsis. Consult a health-care provider to find out if you may benefit from asparagus supplement in addition to standard drugs. Keep in mind that asparagus does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for urinary tract infections. Asparagus supplement is approved by German E Commission to treat kidney diseases, says Drugs.com. However, it is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration for any kidney or any other urinary tract infections.