Urethritis is the inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. In men, the urethra also carries semen. Urethritis is most commonly caused by bacterial infections, often sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Non-infectious causes include injuries, chemical irritants (like soaps or spermicides), or certain medical procedures.
In Ayurveda, we believe that urethritis is caused when your Pitta and Vata doshas are not in balance, i.e., when your body is too hot (Pitta) or dry (Vata). When your body’s energies are out of balance, they disturb the ‘mutravaha srotas’, the urinary channels of your body.
As per Ayurveda, we call this condition Mutrakrichra i.e, difficulty passing urine. Ayurveda examines your symptoms but also the underlying causes that lead to this condition, such as poor digestion, excess body heat, lifestyle choices and external infections (which could be due to unprotected sex or poor hygiene).
Ayurvedic treatment for urethritis does not aim at stopping the infection only. With this, it also aims at cooling your body naturally, soothing inflammation, detoxifying your urinary tract and strengthening your immunity to avoid recurrence of the infection.
If you experience repeated urinary discomfort, consultation with an Ayurvedic expert can help you understand your condition and get lasting relief.
Even if you have been diagnosed with urethritis, it is important to understand that there are various kinds of this disease. The type of urethritis depends on what is causing the inflammation of your urinary tract. The two main types are:
This type of urethritis is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the same bacteria which causes gonorrhea (also an STI).
With this type, you may experience yellow or green discharge from the penis or vagina, frequent urination and pain while urinating. It is usually spread if you have unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
The more common type of urethritis is nongonococcal urethritis, which is not caused by the gonorrhea bacteria. Rather, it can be due to other infections like Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis or viruses like herpes. It may also happen because of chemical irritation, injury, or poor hygiene.
In this type, you may feel a burning sensation when you urinate, pain in the lower abdomen, or clear discharge.
As we have discussed, urethritis is basically inflammation of your urethra, which can happen because of some infection or irritation. Now, let us understand the most common causes of urethritis :
The symptoms of urethritis can vary depending on what is the real cause behind it. Some patients with urethritis show no direct symptoms.
It is also possible that you may have urethritis without showing any symptoms, usually when it comes from infections like chlamydia. This is why you should consult your Ayurvedic doctor if you are sexually active and feel even slight discomfort.
If it hurts when you pee, it might be a sign of urethritis.
You might find yourself going to the bathroom more frequently than normal, even when there is little urine.
You may feel a dull ache or pressure around the bladder or lower stomach region.
You may also experience burning, itching or irritation near the urethral opening.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Urethritis using time-tested Ayurvedic methods. Our treatment plans are made in a custom manner to target the root causes of Urethritis, and instead of treating the symptoms only, they focus on complete healing, balance and stability.
Ayurveda offers a natural and safe way to deal with urethritis using tested Ayurvedic herbs that help to fight infection, reduce inflammation and support your urinary system. These herbs ease pain and discomfort and target the main cause of this disease to prevent future flare-ups.
These are some effective Ayurvedic herbs used for managing urethritis:
Gokshura is an anti-inflammatory and diuretic herb which flushes out bacteria from your body. It also soothes inflamed tissues and assists with proper urine flow.
This Ayurvedic herb helps to reduce swelling and excess water retention. It helps to cleanse your kidneys and urinary tract and prevents frequent infections.
Varuna breaks down and flushes out urinary toxins. It also supports healthy bladder function and helps with passing urine discomfort.
Guggulu is believed to have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. It reduces internal swelling and facilitates the healing of tissues in chronic urethritis.
This herb is often used to clear urinary blockages and relieve burning when urinating. It also prevents crystals or stones from forming in your urinary tract.
Vacha inhibits bacterial growth and promotes healing from within. It also calms your nervous system, which can be helpful in stress urinary problems.
Mustak has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It relieves urination pain and supports faster wound healing.
Khadir is believed to purify your blood and has antiseptic qualities. It helps to control infections and maintain a healthy urinary system.
Giloy is renowned for strengthening immunity and preventing recurring infections. It also decreases urethral inflammation and speeds up your recovery.
Amalaki is high in vitamin C. It helps flush out toxins from your body and boosts your immune response. It also helps your inflamed tissues to heal faster.
Daruharidra is a natural antibiotic that fights infections and soothes your irritated urinary tract tissues.
Shilajit is a renowned Ayurvedic herb that can improve strength, immunity and your overall health. It also relieves urethritis pain and discomfort.
Kaash is believed to relieve urinary irritation and reduce the burning sensation you feel while urinating.
Traditionally used in urinary conditions, Darbha has cooling properties and helps reduce pain and heat in the urinary tract.
Ikshu juice is not only cooling for your body but it also helps to relieve burning sensation while urinating. It also hydrates your body and helps to flush out toxins.
Triphala is made with Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki, which together detoxify your body and keep your urinary tract clean and healthy.
Coriander seeds can be boiled to make a soothing tea. This can help reduce inflammation in your urinary tract and support comfortable urination.
You can apply sandalwood externally as a paste to cool the inflamed area and get relief from itching or burning caused by urethritis.
Garlic is a natural antibiotic herb. It kills bacteria and relieves lower abdominal pain if you are suffering with urethritis.
Turmeric is an antimicrobial and antibacterial Ayurvedic herb. It reduces urethral swelling and promotes faster healing.
ACV is a natural cleansing agent that kills bacteria in your urinary tract. It shows best results when taken in warm water with honey.
This is why Ayurvedic remedies are generally considered a better and safer option for urethritis.
Ayurveda approaches Urethritis by focusing on reducing inflammation (Pitta dosha imbalance), eliminating toxins (Ama), and strengthening the body's natural defences (Immunity or Ojas).
Jiva’s evidence-based ayurvedic treatment for Urethritis often includes,
Diet and lifestyle play an auxiliary role in managing Urethritis and maintaining overall well-being:
Is Urethritis contagious?
Urethritis, due to STIs, is very infectious. A person should avoid sexual contacts until the infection is cleared entirely and inform sexual contacts.
How is Urethritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is by urine test or swab of the urethra to identify the causative organism.
Can Urethritis cause complications?
Untreated Urethritis can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) in men, and infertility in both sexes.
Can I use over-the-counter medications for Urethritis?
It's crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Over-the-counter medications may mask symptoms but not cure the infection.
Can Ayurveda completely cure Urethritis?
Though Ayurveda might effectively control symptoms and speed healing, it is often wise to consult with a certified ayurveda doctor in conjunction with a medical doctor, especially with regard to infections. Ayurveda may be used in addition to conventional treatment.
Are there specific ayurvedic dietary restrictions in Urethritis?
Spicy, sour, and salty foods, alcohol, and caffeine should be avoided in general during treatment.
How long does it take to clear Urethritis through treatment?
Usually within a few days to a week, bacterial Urethritis will clear with appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Can stress make Urethritis symptoms worse?
Stress may not cause Urethritis itself but can compromise the body's immune system, potentially hindering the body from effectively fighting the infection.
Which are the best home remedies for Urethritis?
Drinking plenty of water, cranberry juice (for non-gonococcal Urethritis), and avoiding irritants might bring some relief, but do not replace medical treatment. Always consult a specialist doctor first
