The use of herbal medicine in pyelonephritis

Exploring the treatment of pyelonephritis using natural remedies and scientific discoveries, this article offers a holistic approach to this complex urinary tract infection. We decipher the symptoms, the causes and present innovative solutions, combining the wisdom of natural medicine and advances in medical research, for an effective treatment of pyelonephritis.

Pyelonephritis

Acute pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of the kidneys and the ureter (canal between the kidney and the bladder). Generally caused by Escherichia coli bacteria, it requires rapid treatment, especially for people at risk such as pregnant women. It is often the result of acute cystitis.

It is a form ofupper urinary tract infection. Pyelonephritis is mostly confined to a single kidney and the associated ureter. Escherichia Coli accounts for 75-90% of urinary tract infections, with other germs involved less frequently.

Pyelonephritis is termedacute because it usually resolves within a few days with antibiotic treatment. It is more common in women than in men, particularly during pregnancy. The presence of urinary tract malformations also increases the risk of this infection.

What is pyelonephritis?

Pyelic is the adjective referring to the pelvis. Pyelitis is anacute or chronic inflammatory infection of the lining of the pelvis. It is a relatively serious condition, especially as it is often due to the presence of E. coli bacteria. It can also spread to the whole kidney (pyelonephritis) or to the bladder (pyelocystitis). Urologists distinguish between several forms of pyelitis.

Calculous pyelitis, which is fairly common, is caused by a stone in the renal pelvis. Other forms of pyelitis are named according to the origin of the infection. For example, ascending or urogenic pyelitis is caused by infections of the lower tract. These often begin in the urethra or bladder. Haematogenous pyelitis is transmitted via the blood. In this case, it is often pyelonephritis.

If not treated properly, the infection can have serious consequences for the kidney and affect other organs. Recurrences are possible and should be investigated for kidney or urinary tract abnormalities. Drinking plenty of fluids is one way of preventing them.

What are the main symptoms of pyelonephritis?

In the case ofkidney infection in young adults, it is often preceded by cystitis, which is not very obvious. The symptoms of kidney infection appear suddenly: fever over 38.5°C, chills and general malaise. There may also be lumbar or abdominal pain on one side, aggravated by palpation. Digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also occur. For pyelonephritis in the elderly, the symptoms are often different and more misleading, including confusion, abdominal pain and sometimes an absence of fever.

In the case of severe acute pyelonephritis, signs of seriousness such as impaired consciousness and extreme weakness warrant emergency hospitalisation. In small children, the symptoms of pyelonephritis can be misleading, ranging from an unexplained fever to crying when urinating, abnormal urination, loss of appetite, mood swings, irritability and even weight loss. To diagnose the condition, the doctor starts with a dipstick test. If positive, a cytobacteriological examination of the urine (ECBU) is carried out to identify the bacteria and its sensitivity to antibiotics.

Dysuria

Dysuria, also known as difficult urination, is a condition frequently encountered in men. It is characterised by a number of symptoms: a delay in the emission of urine, a weak and sometimes vertical urine stream, and retention of urine at the end of urination, causing successive spurts or a drip. Painful or embarrassing dysuria is often associated with an intense burning sensation. It may be accompanied by bladder or perineal pain. Although extremely common in women, dysuria can affect men and can occur at any age.

Dysuria results from irritation of the bladder or urethra, often due to inflammation or stenosis of the urethra. It manifests as difficulty in initiating urination and a burning sensation. Bladder irritation leads to painful and frequent contractions. It is usually caused by a lower urinary tract infection, but can also result from an upper urinary tract infection.

In women, perineal lesions can be painful in the event of urinary tract infection. Common causes include cystitis, urethritis due to a sexually transmitted infection, and the effect of irritating foods or drinks such as alcohol, caffeine and citrus fruit.

A distinction is made between waiting dysuria, which occurs at the start of micturition, and urgency dysuria, which sometimes occurs at the end of micturition. It may be accompanied by a reduction in the strength of the jet, longer micturition and the sensation of a non-empty bladder at the end of micturition.

Dysuria induces changes in the bladder to compensate for the obstacle. Struggling bladder is the first stage, where the bladder muscle contracts more than normal. This is followed by the diverticulum stage, where the bladder, unable to fight back, forms diverticula. The final stage is distension, where the bladder, unable to overcome the obstacle, distends.

The variouscauses include endometriosis in women, bladder or prostate cancer in men, urinary tract infections and neurological disorders. Dysuria can lead to bladder distension, acute urine retention, hydronephrosis, urinary tract infection and chronic renal failure.

Pollakiuria

This is anabnormal increase in the number of urinations. Pollakiuria is a form of urinary urgency, in which the patient experiences an irrepressible urge to urinate several times a day. Sometimes it is the detrusor (a set of longitudinal muscle fibres in the bladder that act as a single muscle to contract the bladder) that contracts independently of the patient’s will.

This form of incontinence is more common in women, children and the very elderly. Pollakiuria can also be caused by a prostatic adenoma, an enlargement or tumour of the prostate, or urethral lithiasis, all of which reduce the lumen of the urethra. Urine passes with difficulty and the bladder no longer empties normally. Depending on the location of these micturitions in a 24-hour cycle, urologists distinguish between diurnal pollakiuria when the patient is “quiet” at night (one or no nocturnal micturition), nocturnal pollakiuria when these numerous urges only occur at night (3 to 4 times during the day, numbers considered normal) or permanent pollakiuria, which is more serious because it does not stop. In some severe forms, patients are obliged to urinate (small quantities) every 15 minutes.

Normal urination occurs when the bladder is sufficiently full, allowing voluntary, painless and complete elimination of around 350 ml of urine, generally every 3-4 hours. For people over 60, getting up once a night is normal.

Pollakiuria may result from diseases affecting the bladder, ureters, kidneys or neighbouring organs, or from pregnancy. It can also be linked to psychological factors, such as stress or anxiety.

Pyuria

Pyuria is the medical term for the presence of pus in the urine, often indicating a bacterial infection of the urinary tract. The result is cloudy, foul-smelling or discoloured urine and the presence of large numbers of leucocytes (white blood cells).

It is crucial to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as pyuria can indicate a variety of urinary pathologies, such as cystitis, pyelonephritis,urethritis or prostatitis.

Sterile pyuria, where no germs are detected, can result from certain diseases or the side-effects of medication. It is more common in women and people in hospital.

Risk factors include diabetes, AIDS, a history of urinary tract infection, or the presence of foreign bodies in the urinary tract. Associated symptoms depend on the underlying condition, and may include frequent or painful urination, and sometimes fever or back pain.

Diagnosis is by urinalysis and may require further investigation. Treatment varies according to the cause, ranging fromantibiotics to other medical interventions if necessary.

Fever and chills

Fever, or pyrexia, is the controlled rise in body temperature above normal. In endotherms (mammals and birds), this rise in temperature is a response by thehypothalamus to pyrogenic substances, often released by macrophages during inflammatory reactions.

In humans, fever strengthens the immune system and inhibits the growth of pathogenic micro-organisms. It occurs in three phases: heat rise, hyperthermia plateau, and defervescence. A resting rectal temperature above 38.0°C in children and 37.2 to 37.5°C in adults generally indicates a fever. Moderate temperatures between 37.7 and 37.9°C are called febrile.

Ectotherms can induce behavioural fever by moving to warmer areas.

Measurement of body temperature may vary depending on the method and site of measurement (buccal, rectal, axillary, tympanic). Adjustments are necessary for buccal and axillary measurements.

The maintenance of homeothermy is regulated by the hypothalamus, which receives information from peripheral thermoreceptors and the blood. Fever results from a modification of this thermostat by pyrogens, which may be exogenous (microbes) or endogenous (cytokines).

Fever is often a sign of infection, but can also indicate other pathologies. A medical diagnosis is necessary to determine its origin and severity. Fever can be treated with physical measures or antipyretic drugs. However, a doctor should be consulted if the fever presents unusual characteristics or signs of seriousness.

Unilateral lower back pain

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting frequently accompany benign conditions such as gastroenteritis, migraine, adverse drug reactions or motion sickness. However, they can also be warning signs of more serious conditions such as meningitis or intestinal obstruction, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms.

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation in the stomach and throat, while vomiting is the expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth, a defence mechanism of the body. These symptoms may be accompanied by an accelerated heart rate, cold sweat, paleness,hypersalivation, malaise, abdominal pain or diarrhoea.

Chronic vomiting lasts for more than 7 days. The mechanism of vomiting involves several stages, coordinated by a nerve centre in the brain, and can be stimulated by nervous information from the digestive tract or inner ear, or by cerebral information.

Episodic nausea and vomiting can occur with gastroenteritis, medication, excess alcohol, indigestion, vagal discomfort, or when travelling in a vehicle. They can also occur during migraines, colic attacks, food allergies, Meniere’s disease or after anaesthesia.

Vomiting may also indicate a medical emergency such as appendicitis, acute cholecystitis, pyelonephritis, poisoning, myocardial infarction or intestinal obstruction. Certain medicines are frequently responsible for vomiting, such as antimitotics, certain antibiotics and various other drugs.

Chronic vomiting may be linked to pregnancy, anorexia and bulimia, anxiety, chronic poisoning or food intolerance. In the presence of associated symptoms, other rarer causes such as digestive obstructions, chronic illnesses, cancer or intracranial hypertension may be considered.

Fatigue

Asthenia, more commonly known as fatigue, is a frequent symptom and becomes worrying when it persists despite rest and sleep. It can be temporary and reactive, occurring after overwork or a brief infection, or long-lasting, associated with a chronic illness or psychological suffering.

Normal fatigue disappears with rest, whereasasthenia is abnormal fatigue that persists even after rest. It is characterised by an inability to carry out daily activities, accompanied by lassitude, weakness, intellectual inefficiency, exhaustion and a constant feeling of being ‘washed out’. If these symptoms last for more than six months, we speak ofchronic asthenia.

Fatigue is a common complaint, with 10-25% of patients in general practice reporting constant fatigue. Women are more often affected.

Reactional fatigue is temporary, due to a lack of sleep, life disruptions, stress, professional inactivity or overwork. Too much screen time can also cause fatigue.

Certain medical conditions can cause fatigue, including acute or chronic infectious diseases, surgery,anaemia, endocrine diseases, autoimmune disorders, neurological and muscular diseases, cancer, chronic illnesses and sleep disorders.

Medication, drugs, alcohol, lead or carbon monoxide poisoning can also cause fatigue.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a sudden onset illness in active adults, with symptoms persisting for more than six months, including permanent asthenia, muscle and joint pain, problems with memory and concentration, and infectious symptoms. It has a significant impact on social and professional life.

Some naturopathic advice to avoid pyelonephritis

To prevent lower urinary tract infections or cystitis, it is essential to adopt preventive measures and to take certain steps in the event of recurrence. First of all, there are four times when infections are particularly likely to occur: during hot weather, when travelling, on organised trips, and in aeroplanes, where dehydration can be a problem. We therefore recommend drink enoughin particular one litre of water for every 30 kg of body weight per day, use the toilet whenever you feel the urge, take toilet breaks before going out, and wear comfortable cotton clothing.

When it comes to intimate hygiene, using a mild soap, careful hygiene after each act of intercourse, frequent replacement of tampons during menstruation, and a diet rich in fibre are all good daily practices. The aim is to minimise the presence of harmful bacteria. It’s also crucial to urinate as soon as you feel the need, to wipe from front to back after going to the toilet, to avoid vaginal douches and scented products, and to opt for cotton underwear.

In the event of recurrent cystitis, it may be necessary to take additional measures, such as correcting urinary tract abnormalities, treating genitourinary prolapse or correcting urinary incontinence. In addition, particular attention must be paid to people at risk of complications, including those with urinary tract abnormalities, men, pregnant women, the elderly, the immunocompromised, or those suffering from chronic kidney disease. These precautions and interventions are designed to reduce the risk of infection and improve quality of life.

Naturopathic advice for pyelonephritis

When treating acute pyelonephritis, a condition generally caused by Escherichia coli bacteria, it is important to combine naturopathic and conventional approaches. On the one hand, naturopathic advice suggests drinking plenty of water, avoiding excessively acidifying foods, vitamin C, tea and coffee, and taking aspirin. These measures aim to lighten the load on the urinary tract and maintain an environment less conducive to bacterial growth.

On the other hand, conventional treatment of acute pyelonephritis is based on the use of antibiotics. This treatment is essential to effectively combat the infection. As soon as a urine sample has been taken for a urinary cytobacteriological examination (ECBU), antibiotics are prescribed without waiting for the results. The doctor can adjust the treatment according to the results of the ECBU and the antibiogram, to specifically target the germ responsible.

The duration of antibiotic treatment varies. It generally lasts 7 to 10 days for simple forms of pyelonephritis. However, it can be extended to 10 days if there is a risk of complications. Medical follow-up is essential to ensure that the treatment is effective, with reassessment after 48 to 72 hours. If the symptoms disappear completely, a follow-up ECBU is generally not necessary.

The majority of patients with acute pyelonephritis are treated at home, often with oral medication. In some cases, particularly where there are worrying symptoms, potential complications or malformations of the urinary tract, hospitalisation may be necessary.

As a general rule, simple acute pyelonephritis responds well to treatment and recovers. However, there is a risk of complications, such as sepsis or renal abscess, requiring urgent hospitalisation. It is therefore vital to follow medical recommendations to the letter and keep a close eye on how symptoms develop.

Pyelonephritis and phytotherapy

Herbal medicine can be used to treat pyelonephritis, a kidney infection generally caused by bacteria. It is important to note that herbal medicine does not replace conventional medical treatment, particularly the use of antibiotics, but can be used to help relieve certain symptoms and promote healing.

Buds

Gemmotherapy is an approach to phytotherapy which focuses on the use of plant buds and young shoots for their therapeutic properties. These parts of the plant are rich in nutrients, enzymes and active ingredients, making them particularly beneficial to health. Gemmotherapy is generally considered to be a safe approach. However, this does not exempt you from following the recommendations of a qualified health professional to determine the appropriate bud extracts and dosages for each individual.

Bramble bud

Bramble, taken in association with Fagus sylvaticathis synergy will act on chronic interstitial nephritis following pyelonephritis.

Bramble, known by its scientific name “Rubus fruticosus”, is a thorny shrub in the Rosaceae family. Its fruit, the blackberry, is distinct from the mulberry of the Moraceae family. In gemmotherapy, Bramble bud macerate is used for its benefits to various systems in the body.

Firstly, it acts on the osteo-articular sphere, strengthening bones and helping to heal fractures. It is also beneficial for people suffering from osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and other joint disorders.

Bramble also acts on the respiratory system, particularly in cases of bronchitis or emphysema, helping to clear the lungs.

What’s more, this bud macerate has a mild oestrogenic effect, making it an appropriate choice to accompany the menopause and in the case of uterine fibroids.

Recommended doses vary according to age and situation. For adults and adolescents, the recommended dosage is 5 to 15 drops a day in a glass of water, divided into 1 to 3 doses over a 3-week period. Children over the age of 3 may take 1 drop a day for every 10 kg, increasing gradually.

In addition to other therapeutic approaches, gemmotherapy based on Bramble bud macerate can be used. You should follow the advice of a health professional and not exceed the recommended daily dose. This method is generally well tolerated. However, it is not recommended for infants under the age of 3, pregnant women, or in cases of hormone-dependent cancer without medical advice.

Juniper bud

Juniper bud is used in chronic pyelonephritis. Alternate with Calluna vulgarisit will act on calcic (oxalatic) renal lithiasis. Alternate with Berberis 3 times, it will act on recurrent hepatic colic.

Juniper, a bushy shrub native to America, Asia, Africa and Europe, grows to between 4 and 15 metres in height and thrives in poor, sandy, dry soil.

Throughout history, it has featured in the legends of many civilisations. The Celts and Germans considered it a sacred tree, capable of warding off evil spirits and protecting against theft. Juniper boughs were hung above the doors of houses and stables to ward off witchcraft.

For a long time, French hospitals burned juniper in their premises to purify the air.

In gemmotherapy, Juniper macerate effectively drains and detoxifies the liver and gallbladder. It is invaluable for livers that are overloaded, weakened or suffering from steatosis, and in cases of drug intoxication. Its use is particularly recommended after hospitalisation under anaesthetic or during chemotherapy treatments.

Juniper can provide relief for patients suffering from chronic or drug-induced hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver tumours, hepatic steatosis, hepatic decompensation or jaundice. It helps eliminate internal varices (oesophageal and gastric) and kidney stagnation (kidney stones).

It acts as a general detoxifier, eliminating organic waste such as urea and uric acid. It also stimulates the kidneys and has a diuretic action, making it suitable for use in cases of renal lithiasis, pyelonephritis and nephritis.

Juniper can also help regulate portal pressure and play a role in diabetes by eliminating sugars from the body, reducing cholesterol and combating obesity.

It also offers relief to patients suffering from joint disorders such as polyarthritis, osteomalacia, collagenosis and gouty arthritis.

Walnut bud

Walnut is indicated for chronic suppuration of urological, dermatological and gynaecological mucous membranes. It is indicated for chronic pyelonephritis, chronic cystitis and chronic prostatitis.

Walnut bud macerate is a versatile natural solution, renowned for its healing, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. This form of gemmotherapy offers numerous benefits, particularly in prevention, especially when digestive disorders or metabolic imbalance are associated.

Native to Persia, the walnut tree is renowned for its demanding and solitary nature. Its leaves contain juglone, a substance which inhibits the growth of other plants in the vicinity. Walnut bud macerate acts as a digestive system regenerator, restoring intestinal flora and exerting a beneficial effect on the pancreas and spleen. It is particularly suitable in cases of diarrhoea, acne and diabetes.

In gemmotherapy, Walnut is used for a variety of problems, covering the cutaneous, digestive, metabolic, blood, urogenital, immune, respiratory and osteoarticular areas.

Adults and adolescents are advised to take between 5 and 15 drops a day, diluted in a glass of water, spread over 1 to 3 doses over a 3-week period. Children over the age of 3 may take 1 drop a day for every 10 kg, increasing gradually.

The main properties of Walnut bud macerate include its intestinal rebalancing action, its depurative power on the liver, its antiviral and immunostimulant effect, its anti-inflammatory action and its hypoglycaemic potential.

Standardised plant extracts (SPE)

Standardised plant extracts maintain a constant concentration of active ingredients, guaranteeing their effectiveness in various therapeutic applications. This standardisation ensures strict control over the quality and potency of phytopreventive products. Phytoprévent’s standardised plant extracts are used to treat a wide range of health problems, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, metabolic disorders, skin conditions, joint problems and many others. They represent a natural approach to improving health and well-being by harnessing the healing properties of plants. Before using these extracts, it is advisable to consult a health professional to determine the appropriate dosage and use according to each patient’s individual needs.

Cranberry

Bacteriostatic and anti-adhesive, cranberries are indicated for all types of urinary tract infection. Cranberries have a number of pharmacological properties that go beyond their reputation for preventing urinary tract infections. Firstly, they are recognised for their preventive efficacy against urinary tract infections caused by E. coli. Studies have shown that Cranberries significantly reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, especially in healthy women.

Cranberries also have acidifying properties, which help to lower the urinary pH, thereby inhibiting the growth of bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli. It also inhibits the adhesion of certain bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, to the walls of the urinary tract, thanks to its type A proanthocyanidins (PAC-A) and other compounds.

Cranberry extracts have been shown to have anti-lithiasis effects, reducing the risk of phosphocalcic lithiasis, although they may increase the risk of calcium oxalate lithiasis. Cranberries have antibacterial and antiviral properties, particularly against Helicobacter pylori, dental plaque and certain viruses. It is also rich in antioxidants, helping to prevent damage caused by free radicals.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities have also been observed in vitro, as well as a positive influence on certain blood parameters, notably an increase in HDL and a reduction in oxidised LDL. However, certain precautions are necessary, particularly in cases of hyperuricaemia, a history of uric acidosis, diabetes or potential drug interactions. It is recommended to drink plenty of water when taking Cranberry-based products.

As far as dosage is concerned, Cranberries are available in dry form (capsules, sachets, capsules) or liquid form (fluid extract or fresh juice). Dosages vary according to the form chosen, but it is essential to follow the recommendations for effective treatment of urinary tract infections.

Bearberry

Bearberry is a urinary antiseptic used to treat urinary tract infections.

Bearberry leaves have various pharmacological properties that are beneficial to health. Firstly, they have well-established urinary antiseptic properties, due to the presence of arbutin, a powerful urinary disinfectant that specifically targets Escherichia coli, the main germ responsible for urinary tract infections. Arbutin is converted to hydroquinone in the urinary tract, providing powerful antiseptic action, especially in an alkaline urinary environment.

Bearberry leaves also have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, astringent and decongestant properties for the urinary tract. These benefits are attributed to the presence of iridoids and allantoin, which promote healing and regeneration of the urinary mucosa.

Bearberry also acts as a diuretic thanks to the arbutoside, flavonoids and phenolic glucosides present in its leaves. It increases renal elimination of water, sodium and potassium, helping to eliminate excess fluid from the body.

In terms of vascular properties, the gall tannins in Bearberry are useful for preventing haematuria and improving blood circulation in the bladder mucosa.

However, precautions should be taken. It is crucial to maintain an alkaline urinary pH to activate the antiseptic effect of hydroquinone. There are contraindications, particularly for pregnant or breast-feeding women, people with urinary tract cancer and those with kidney problems. Side effects such as green-brown coloured urine may occur.

Dosages vary according to the form chosen, and it is advisable not to take it for more than a week or more than 5 times a year without medical advice, especially for men, for whom its use is not traditional. Drug interactions and precautions for use should also be taken into account when taking Bearberry.

Orthosiphon

Diuretic, choleretic and anti-adhesive, orthosiphon is generally used for intestinal and renal elimination.

Orthosiphon leaves have a range of remarkable pharmacological properties. Orthosiphon increases diuresis, promotes the elimination of sodium (Na+) and chlorine (Cl-) ions, and reduces uric acid in the urine, while preserving potassium (K+). These effects are attributed to flavonoids such as sinesetin and eupatorin, as well as caffeic acid derivatives such as rosmarinic acid and cichoric acid. These compounds help to eliminate kidney stones and prevent the formation of uric acid crystals.

Orthosiphon also has nephroprotective properties by inhibiting the binding of TGF-β1 to its receptors, which could be beneficial in the treatment of kidney disease.

On the hepatobiliary level, Orthosiphon stimulates hepatocytes and increases bile secretion (choleretic), thus promoting bile evacuation.

On a metabolic level, this plant has hypoglycaemic properties by inhibiting the enzymes α-glucosidase and α-amylase, which may be beneficial in the management of type 2 diabetes. In addition, thanks to its high flavonoid content, Orthosiphon encourages the mobilisation of fat from cells, which can be useful in slimming diets.

Orthosiphon is also active in terms of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-infectious effects. It inhibits the production of nitric oxide (NO) and has antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation. It also prevents Escherichia coli bacteria from adhering to the surface of bladder cells, which can prevent urinary tract infections.

Orthosiphon excludes its use in cases of renal colic, and does not recommend its use in pregnant women, children or adolescents. It requires adequate hydration during treatment. In the event of worsening symptoms or fever, medical consultation is recommended. Finally, it is important to take into account drug interactions and specific precautions.

Meadowsweet

A diuretic and anti-inflammatory, meadowsweet is used to treat fluid retention.

The flowering tops of Meadowsweet have various pharmacological properties, making it a plant with multiple benefits. First and foremost, it has anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective properties. Thanks to the salicosides they contain, they act by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, thereby reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes. This anti-inflammatory, analgesic and platelet anti-aggregating action is similar to that of aspirin, but without the latter’s undesirable effects.

Meadowsweet also has immunomodulating properties, inhibiting the action of complement and the proliferation of T cells, making it useful in the treatment of respiratory tract diseases and infections.

It is also notable for its anticoagulant properties, thanks to a substance similar to heparin, as well as its astringent, vasoconstrictive and anti-diarrhoeal properties. Meadowsweet also acts as a diuretic, promoting the elimination of sodium, potassium and uric acid.

In antioxidant terms, it is highly active, helping to protect cells against free radicals. It also has antibacterial properties, particularly against staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.

However, precautions should be taken in certain situations, including allergy to salicylates, asthma triggered by aspirin, pregnancy, breast-feeding, Reye’s syndrome in children with fever, and when co-administered with other drugs. Theoretical side effects are linked to the presence of salicylic acid. Meadowsweet also contains tannins that protect mucous membranes and blood vessels.

Echinacea

An immunostimulant and anti-infectious(Escherichia coli), Echinacea is indicated for urinary tract infections. Echinacea roots, in particular Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea pallida, have a range of remarkable pharmacological properties. These medicinal plants are reputed to strengthen the immune system, providing a defence against infection. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for joint problems. They also help to heal wounds. They have antioxidant properties that protect cells from oxidative damage.

Echinacea root stimulates immunity. They boost defences thanks to alkylamides and polysaccharides. In vivo studies have demonstrated their effectiveness against stress-induced immunosuppression. They increase splenocytes and strengthen NK cells. Echinacea also modifies T lymphocytes.

They also have an anti-infectious action. They act against viruses, bacteria and fungi. Echinacea treats skin problems and respiratory, gastrointestinal and urogenital infections. They also prevent infections.

Finally, these roots have anti-inflammatory properties, linked to compounds such as polysaccharides and alkylamides. They act on vascular and tissue inflammatory mechanisms, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and protecting against oxidative stress.

However, certain precautions should be taken when using echinacea, particularly in the presence of autoimmune diseases, allergies to asteraceae, liver disorders or in the event of interaction with other drugs. Echinacea has many benefits. However, their use must be carefully monitored to ensure that they are both effective and safe.

Hawkweed

A diuretic and urinary antiseptic, pilosella is used for cystitis and kidney elimination. Hawkweed is a medicinal plant with a range of pharmacological properties that are beneficial to health. It is associated with essential diuretic, hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.

The renal activity of Hawkweed is remarkable. Hawkweed helps to eliminate urea, uric acid and chlorides. This relieves inflammation of the urinary tract. Its high inulin content increases osmotic pressure in the kidneys. This creates a diuretic effect.

It also has bacteriostatic properties. It inhibits the growth of bacteria such as Brucella and Salmonella typhimurium. This also includes Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. These effects are due to the phenolic acids, which are antibacterial.

As far as the hepatodigestive system is concerned, Hawkweed has choleretic properties, encouraging the production of bile, and cholesterol-lowering properties. It also has an antispasmodic effect on the sphincter of Oddi.

Pilosella is also beneficial for the intestinal system due to its astringent tannins, which give it anti-diarrhoeal and intestinal healing properties.

Finally, this plant is rich in polyphenolic compounds, giving it antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiproliferative and cardioprotective properties. It has been associated with the reduction of free radicals and potential anti-cancer effects.

However, precautions should be taken. It is recommended that you consult a health professional before using Pilosella, particularly during pregnancy or when breast-feeding. It is also important to maintain adequate hydration during treatment and to monitor symptoms. Piloselle is not suitable for people suffering from fluid retention due to kidney or heart problems. If in doubt, or if symptoms worsen, medical advice should be sought.

Essential oils

Common Juniper twig berry essential oil

Juniper essential oil is indicated for lithiasis and pyelonephritis. Apply clove oil diluted 30% in a vegetable oil and massage the lower abdomen and kidneys, 2 times a day for 7 days.

Juniper berry essential oil has a range of beneficial pharmacological properties. Firstly, it demonstrates antimicrobial activity in vitro against various bacteria and viruses, including staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, the herpes virus HSV-1, and others. It also has antifungal properties against Candida albicans and dermatophytes.

Juniper essential oil is also diuretic, promoting normal urinary excretion. This makes it useful for benign urinary disorders. It stimulates choleresis and reduces the formation of gallstones. It has a beneficial effect on the liver and pancreas. In respiratory terms, it has expectorant and venotonic properties. It also protects the renal filter and is beneficial for the kidneys.

Other notable properties include :

• its cerebral tonic effect,
• its anti-asthenic action
• its anti-rheumatic role
• its lymphotonic capacity,
• its antispasmodic action,
• its inhibition of protein glycation,
• antioxidant activity,
• and its topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

However, certain precautions must be taken when using Juniper essential oil. It is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, or for children under the age of 8. Overly concentrated topical use may cause skin irritation. It should not be inhaled, diffused or added to bath water. In addition, it should not be used in combination with cortisone, as there is a risk of drug interaction. It is contraindicated for asthma sufferers. It is not recommended for heavy periods. Finally, prolonged use can lead to albuminuria. To use it as a diuretic, you need to drink at least two litres of water a day. The health authorities recognise some of its traditional uses. These include use as a complementary diuretic treatment for urinary tract infections and to relieve digestive disorders.

Ceylon cinnamon bark essential oil

A urinary anti-infective,Ceylon cinnamon essential oil is indicated for severe urinary tract infections.

Ceylon cinnamon bark essential oil has a wide range of beneficial pharmacological properties. Firstly, it has strong antibacterial activity, covering a broad spectrum of bacteria, including staphylococcus, bacillus, enterobacter, pseudomonas, Helicobacter pylori and Salmonella typhii. It is also antifungal, acting against Candida albicans, even when Candida spp. are resistant to fluconazole. It also acts against Aspergillus and Trichosporon ovoides, involved in mycosis of the scalp. It also has a specific action against fungi affecting the digestive and urinary tracts, acting as an anti-colibacillary. It also inhibits the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with gastric ulcers.

Ceylon cinnamon essential oil also has anti-parasitic, insecticidal and repellent properties, effective against lice and nits. It should not be used directly on the skin, however, as it is caustic.

It helps reduce excess intestinal fermentation by stimulating the gastrointestinal tract, relieving flatulence and constipation.

It is also known for its tonic, aphrodisiac, euphoric, stimulant and muscle-strengthening properties. It also has anti-inflammatory and mild anticoagulant effects, and can act as a central nervous system sedative.

However, precautions must be taken when using Ceylon cinnamon essential oil. It is not recommended for children under the age of 12, or for pregnant or breast-feeding women. It should not be combined with cortisone because of the risk of drug interaction. It can also cause arrhythmias. This essential oil must be diluted before use, as it is dermatotoxic in its pure state. Finally, its use on animals should be avoided.

New scientific insights

Finally, it is crucial to look at recent scientific advances that shed new light on this condition. A major study published in Nature Reviews Nephrology offers new insights into the mechanisms of this disease.

The research, entitled“Uropathogen and host responses in pyelonephritis“, focuses on the complex interactions between uropathogenic bacteria, primarily Escherichia coli, and the body’s immune responses. The results of this study shed light on how these bacteria manage to infect the urinary tract. They cause inflammation, leading to pyelonephritis. Secondly, it reveals that the response of the host immune system plays a crucial role in the progression of the disease. This could have significant implications for the development of new therapeutic approaches.

By better understanding these host-pathogen interactions, researchers hope to develop more targeted and effective treatment strategies. These strategies could include ways of boosting natural immune responses or specifically targeting uropathogenic bacteria to prevent their spread and virulence.