What are key supplements that help with healing of the bladder & help with the prevention of UTIs?

The list below represents key supplements that have known high positive impact on bladder health and healing from UTIs. We strive to help categorize the various supplements - and will update this list and our blog with our key findings.

Many of these supplements are available on our store, but not all.  Please let us know of any additional supplements and the benefits.

D-Mannose: provides a preferred surface for the E. Coli bacteria to attach to, preventing them from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract and bladder. D-Mannose also soothes the bladder and promotes tissue healing. 

Vitamin D3: has a positive impact on the immune system. Vitamin D is also necessary for the production of substances in the body that fight off infection-causing bacteria. Vitamin D3 is best absorbed with K2. 

Probiotic: include a probiotic supplement to replenish the good bacteria flora. A good example is OrthoBiotic by Orthomolecular because it includes: Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14); Bifidobacterium (Bl-04, Bb-06); Lactobacillus rhamnosus (Lr-32); Saccharomyces boulardii. It's also a good idea to alternate between high-quality probiotics so that you replenish various good bacterial strains.

For those who might be sensitive to probiotics we suggest Desert Harvest's Bifidobacterium infantis strain. This probiotic is meant to be friendly for people with Interstitial Cystitis (IC).

UvaUrsi: anti-inflammatory and urinary antiseptic. Please note this herb cannot be taken long term. 

Curcumin & Turmeric: anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Can be taken as part of diet or in supplement form. Some turmeric supplements contain black pepper for absorption, but this can be irritating to an already sensitive bladder, stomach or gut. We love Dr. D's Ultra BioTurmeric because their proprietary composition enhances curcumin bioavailability without the use of piperine (black pepper). 

Lauricidin (monolaurin): has anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial activity. It works against pathogenic bacteria so it won’t disrupt good bacteria in the gut.

Berberine: found in many plants including goldenseal. It is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and helps the immune system.

Oregano Oil: powerful antibacterial that is effective against E. Coli and other pathogenic bacteria.

Olive Leaf Extract: antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Colloidal Silver: antimicrobial but please use caution as with any other supplement. Best used under the care of a qualified practitioner.

Allicin Extract (garlic bulb): AlliMax and AlliMed have excellent antimicrobial properties. AlliMed is stronger with 450 mg of Allicin and AlliMax has 180 mg of Allicin.

Bladderwrack: one of the most common types of seaweed, it is high in iodine, mucilage, beta-carotene and it is anti-inflammatory.

Fish Oils: anti-inflammatory and aids in tissue healing.

Coconut Oil / Caprylic Acid: powerful anti-fungal and anti-candida, which is important after taking antibiotics.

L-Arginine: important amino acid involved with anti-inflammatory activity and improves circulation, which aids in healing. This amino acid can be found in therapeutic dosages in Bladder Ease by Vitanica. 

Quercetin: has been shown to inhibit the release of histamines and other immune mediators which are thought to play a part in some IC and nonbacterial prostatitis symptoms including nocturia, daytime frequency, pain, burning, pressure, and pain with sex, especially in those with a history of allergies, migraines and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Quercetin also decreases production of the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes that cause systemic inflammation. It has been shown in studies to be an anti-inflammatory agent. 

Bromelain: Helps with digestion and is anti-inflammatory.

Collagen Protein: Promotes tissue healing. Best mixed with smoothie or freshly pressed juice. 

Aloe Vera: can reduce bladder pain and promote healing. Desert Harvest is a great brand that has received great feedback so we are happy to include this supplement on our online store. 

Magnesium: helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function. Great for the immune system.

Serrapeptase: anti-inflammatory and can help with painful symptoms.

​Glucosamine& Chondroitin Sulfate: Reduces inflammation and promotes tissue healing. We love the Desert Harvest brand. 

Gut & Tissue healing supplements: Slippery Elm Extract, L-Glutamine, Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract (DGL), MSM. Please note these are best used in conjunction with a practitioner-led gut healing protocol. This step usually comes after a cleanse to rid the body of any found pathogens. 

Colostrum: great for immune system and recovery.

Bio-film Busters: InterfasePlus, Priority One - Phased 2 Advanced, Kirkman Biofilm Defense, BioCidin, Xylitol, Silver, HCL, Lauricidin, Boluoke. 

Digestive Enzymes: to be take with protein meals to aid in digestion. Enzymedica and Ortho Digestzyme are good options. Adding Betaine Hydrochloride (HCL) can help with digestion, if you can tolerate it at this stage.

Favorite herbal teas for bladder wellness: Marshmallow Root, Chamomile, Spearmint, Calendula, Hyssop, Elderberry, Corn Silk, Nettle Leaf, Milk Thistle, Hops, Lemon Balm/Melissa Herb (note this is in the mint family and not from lemon tree). We carry a variety of organic herbal teas on our online store