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Discomfort of the urinary tract is a straight forward condition, is quite common, and occurs when microbial species (bacteria), colonize within the tract.
The most common symptoms are:
*increased frequency of urination
*discomfort during urination
*increased urgency to urinate
*bladder discomfort
*feeling of not having completely emptied the bladder
*cloudy urine
In addition to poor hygiene, the following behaviors may increase the likelihood of infection:
*a sedentary lifestyle
*inadequate fluid intake
*retention of urine for a long time
*poor nutrition
*stressful situations
It is estimated that approximately 50% of all women between 20 and 40 years of age experience urinary tract discomfort at least once in their life. In light of this, phytotherapy is an excellent tool for these sensitive needs. Medicinal plants that are useful for the physiological well-being of the urinary tract commonly belong to the Ericaceae plant family; Uva Ursi is primarily used, but Black Billberry is known to be helpful as well.
Uva Ursi remained largely ignored by western herbalists until the thirteenth century when Marco Polo reported its use by Chinese doctors as a remedy for kidney problems. Thanks to the stories of the Venetian traveler, Uva Ursi became popular in Europe where a wide application was found for it in cases of health needs associated with the urinary and renal systems. The effectiveness of Uva Ursi can be increased when used in combination with certain plants, such as Golden Rod. Golden Rod’s health effects have been known since the Middle Ages and have been confirmed by recent studies. In regards to possible synergies, the union of these herbs with the essential oils of medicinal and aromatic plants, such as Sage, may be especially helpful.
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