Natural Bladder Purging Techniques

Your body naturally purges itself of excess fluids, toxins and electrolytes through your urinary tract. The process of "bladder purging", a concept similar to colon cleansing or juice-fasting, has become popular in recent years. Although there is no evidence to suggest that bladder purging is beneficial, some alternative medicine practitioners recommend it as a method for removing toxins, treating bacterial infections or promoting general well-being.

The following natural bladder purging techniques may be beneficial. As always, consult your health care provider before using any medicinal herb or making any radical changes to your lifestyle.

Increased Water Intake

A safe, reliable method of bladder purging involves dramatically increasing your fluid intake. Most adults take in far too few fluids. Mayo Clinic advises all adults to drink 1.5 to 3 liters of water each day. If you are adequately hydrated, you should produce at least one liter of clear urine per 24 hours. By increasing your fluid intake, you help to flush infectious bacteria and water-soluble toxins from your urinary tract.

Cranberry Juice

Best known for its ability to prevent urinary tract infections, cranberry juice offers several benefits as a natural bladder purging technique. Compounds in cranberry can prevent infection-causing bacteria from clinging to the bladder, kidneys and urethra. As a fluid, cranberry juice can contribute to the increased production of urine to cleanse other toxins from the system. Cranberry juice also acts as a powerful antioxidant and may help to prevent microscopic cellular damage to your internal organs.

Dandelion

All parts of the dandelion plant act as diuretics, or products that increase the production of urine. Unlike conventional diuretics and most herbal diuretics, dandelion also provides potassium, an electrolyte mineral which helps to regulate fluid balance. Because of its electrolyte properties, dandelion is associated with fewer sid effects than other bladder-purging products. Use dandelion with caution if you have a history of gallbladder disease or an allergy to any member of the ragweed family. Always consult your health care provider before self-diagnosing or self-treating any medical condition.