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Fastest way to get rid of a uti at home. Natural Home Remedies for UTIs: 4 Effective Ways to Treat and Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

How can you treat a UTI at home without antibiotics. What are the most effective natural remedies for urinary tract infections. Which lifestyle changes can help prevent recurring UTIs. Why is staying hydrated crucial for UTI treatment and prevention. How do cranberries help fight urinary tract infections. What role does Vitamin C play in combating UTIs. When should you seek medical attention for a UTI instead of treating it at home.

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Understanding Urinary Tract Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, affecting millions of people worldwide. These infections occur when bacteria, typically Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply. While both men and women can develop UTIs, women are more susceptible due to their shorter urethras, which provide an easier pathway for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Common symptoms of a UTI include:

  • A persistent urge to urinate
  • Burning sensation or pain during urination
  • Passing only small amounts of urine
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  • Pelvic pressure

Is it possible to differentiate between a mild and severe UTI? While mild UTIs may sometimes clear up on their own, it’s crucial to recognize when medical attention is necessary. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, or if you experience fever, back pain, or blood in your urine, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, men and pregnant women should always seek medical advice for UTI symptoms, as they are at higher risk for complications.

The Controversy Surrounding Antibiotic Treatment for UTIs

Traditionally, UTIs have been treated with antibiotics such as Bactrim (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole), Keflex (cephalexin), or Monurol (fosfomycin). However, there’s growing concern about the overuse of antibiotics and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This has led to increased interest in alternative treatments and preventive measures for UTIs.

Can UTIs be treated effectively without antibiotics? For some individuals with uncomplicated UTIs and no other serious health issues, it may be possible to treat the infection at home without antibiotics. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting any home treatment. They can assess your specific situation and determine if it’s safe for you to manage the UTI without prescription medication.

Hydration: The Foundation of UTI Prevention and Treatment

One of the most fundamental and effective strategies for both preventing and treating UTIs is proper hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, diluting urine and increasing the frequency of urination.

How much water should you drink to combat a UTI? According to Dr. Rena Malik, a urologist and director of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, patients with recurrent UTIs are advised to consume about 2 to 3 liters of fluid per day. This can include water, flavored water, and non-caffeinated beverages.

A study involving 141 girls aged 3 to 18 found a strong link between inadequate fluid intake, infrequent urination, and recurrent UTIs. This underscores the importance of staying well-hydrated, especially for those prone to urinary tract infections.

Beverages to Avoid During a UTI

While increasing fluid intake is crucial, it’s equally important to avoid certain beverages that can irritate the bladder and exacerbate UTI symptoms. These include:

  • Alcohol
  • Caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
  • Carbonated beverages
  • Artificial sweeteners

By steering clear of these irritants and focusing on water and other bladder-friendly fluids, you can support your body’s natural defense mechanisms against UTIs.

The Power of Cranberries in Fighting UTIs

Cranberries have long been associated with urinary tract health, and scientific research is beginning to support this traditional remedy. The secret lies in proanthocyanidins (PACs), compounds found in cranberries that may prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining.

What is the optimal daily intake of cranberry PACs for UTI prevention? Studies suggest that consuming 36mg of cranberry PAC daily can be effective in preventing UTIs. However, it’s important to note that not all cranberry products are created equal. Many commercial cranberry juices contain high amounts of sugar but insufficient PACs to be truly beneficial.

Dr. Malik recommends opting for either a concentrated, 100% cranberry juice with no added sugar or a capsule or tablet that provides the appropriate dosage of PACs. These options ensure you’re getting the potential benefits of cranberries without the unnecessary sugars that can actually feed harmful bacteria.

Cranberry Supplements vs. Juice: Which is More Effective?

When it comes to harnessing the power of cranberries for UTI prevention, supplements may offer advantages over juice:

  1. Consistent dosage: Supplements provide a standardized amount of PACs, ensuring you get the right dose.
  2. Lower sugar content: Many cranberry juices are high in sugar, which can be counterproductive for UTI prevention.
  3. Convenience: It’s often easier to take a supplement daily than to consume large quantities of juice.
  4. Cost-effectiveness: In the long run, supplements may be more economical than purchasing cranberry juice regularly.

However, it’s essential to choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Vitamin C: Boosting Your Body’s Natural Defenses Against UTIs

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting overall immune function, which is essential for fighting off infections, including UTIs. Additionally, vitamin C may help prevent UTIs by making urine more acidic, creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria.

How does vitamin C contribute to urinary tract health? Here are several ways:

  • Enhances immune system function
  • Increases urine acidity
  • Supports the production of collagen, which is important for urinary tract tissue health
  • Acts as an antioxidant, protecting urinary tract tissues from damage

While vitamin C can be obtained from various foods, including citrus fruits, berries, and leafy green vegetables, supplements may be necessary to achieve therapeutic doses for UTI prevention. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as excessive vitamin C intake can have side effects.

Recommended Dosage and Sources of Vitamin C

The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. For adults, the general recommendation is:

  • Men: 90 mg per day
  • Women: 75 mg per day
  • Pregnant women: 85 mg per day
  • Breastfeeding women: 120 mg per day

For UTI prevention, higher doses may be recommended by a healthcare provider. Excellent food sources of vitamin C include:

  1. Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons)
  2. Berries (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries)
  3. Kiwi fruit
  4. Bell peppers
  5. Broccoli
  6. Brussels sprouts
  7. Potatoes

Probiotics: Restoring Balance to Your Urinary Microbiome

The concept of beneficial bacteria for urinary tract health is gaining traction in the medical community. Probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus species, may help prevent UTIs by promoting a healthy balance of microorganisms in the urogenital area.

How do probiotics contribute to UTI prevention? Probiotics work in several ways:

  • Competing with harmful bacteria for resources and space
  • Producing substances that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria
  • Strengthening the immune system
  • Maintaining a healthy pH in the urogenital area

While more research is needed to establish definitive guidelines for probiotic use in UTI prevention, incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements into your diet may offer benefits beyond urinary tract health.

Choosing the Right Probiotic for UTI Prevention

When selecting a probiotic for UTI prevention, consider the following factors:

  1. Strain specificity: Look for products containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which have shown promise in UTI prevention.
  2. Colony-forming units (CFUs): Choose a product with at least 1 billion CFUs per dose.
  3. Shelf stability: Ensure the product doesn’t require refrigeration if you can’t store it properly.
  4. Quality and purity: Select products from reputable manufacturers that undergo third-party testing.

As with any supplement, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a probiotic regimen, especially if you have a compromised immune system or other health concerns.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Recurring UTIs

While natural remedies can be effective in treating and preventing UTIs, implementing certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of recurring infections. These habits support overall urinary tract health and create an environment less conducive to bacterial growth.

What are the most effective lifestyle changes for preventing UTIs? Consider incorporating the following practices:

  • Urinate frequently and completely, especially after sexual activity
  • Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
  • Wear breathable, cotton underwear
  • Avoid using harsh soaps or douches in the genital area
  • Take showers instead of baths
  • Urinate before and after sexual intercourse
  • Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
  • Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

By adopting these habits, you can create a strong foundation for urinary tract health and reduce your susceptibility to infections.

The Role of Diet in UTI Prevention

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary tract health and preventing UTIs. Certain foods can help boost your immune system, promote healthy urine pH, and support the growth of beneficial bacteria in your urogenital area.

Consider incorporating the following UTI-fighting foods into your diet:

  1. Berries (cranberries, blueberries, strawberries)
  2. Fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)
  3. Garlic and onions
  4. Leafy green vegetables
  5. Citrus fruits
  6. Green tea
  7. Whole grains
  8. Nuts and seeds

On the other hand, it’s wise to limit or avoid foods that can irritate the bladder or promote bacterial growth, such as caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and highly processed foods.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a UTI

While home remedies and lifestyle changes can be effective for preventing and managing mild UTIs, it’s crucial to recognize when professional medical care is necessary. Untreated or severe UTIs can lead to serious complications, including kidney infections.

When should you consult a healthcare provider for a UTI? Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Symptoms that persist for more than 48 hours
  • Fever or chills
  • Back pain or flank pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Blood in the urine
  • Confusion or disorientation (especially in older adults)

Additionally, certain groups should always consult a healthcare provider for UTI symptoms, including:

  • Pregnant women
  • Men
  • Children
  • People with diabetes or compromised immune systems
  • Individuals with a history of kidney problems

Remember, while natural remedies can be effective for prevention and managing mild cases, antibiotics may be necessary for treating more severe or persistent UTIs. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding treatment options.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis

It’s worth noting that some conditions can mimic UTI symptoms. These include:

  1. Sexually transmitted infections
  2. Interstitial cystitis
  3. Overactive bladder syndrome
  4. Bladder cancer (in rare cases)

For this reason, it’s crucial to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider. They may perform a urine culture to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the most effective treatment approach.

How to Treat a UTI at Home With 4 Natural Remedies

  • To treat a UTI at home, it’s important to drink lots of water, and consume cranberries and Vitamin C. 
  • Often, you will need antibiotics to effectively treat a UTI, and you should check in with your doctor first to determine if you’re able to treat one at home. 
  • Antibiotics will likely be more effective at treating a UTI after it’s occurred, but with these natural remedies, you can help reduce your risk and prevent future UTIs. 
  • This article was medically reviewed by S. Adam Ramin, MD, urologic surgeon and medical director of Urology Cancer Specialists in Los Angeles. 
  • Visit Insider’s Health Reference library for more advice.

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One of the most common bacterial infections is a urinary tract infection, or UTI. If left untreated, a UTI can develop into serious health problems, such as a kidney infection. 

To treat the UTI, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, including: 

  • Bactrim (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) 
  • Keflex (cephalexin)
  • Monurol (fosfomycin)

However, antibiotics can also increase bacterial resistance, and in some cases, your doctor may recommend that you can safely and effectively treat a UTI at home, without antibiotics. 

Here’s how to tell if you have a UTI and when it’s OK to treat one at home.

UTI symptoms

This painful infection occurs when bacteria, usually Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urinary tract through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of your body. 

 These are some of the common symptoms of a UTI:

  • A constant urge to urinate
  • Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
  • Only being able to urinate small amounts
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  • Pressure in your pelvic area

It’s important to see a doctor if your symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, or if you have a fever, back pain, or blood in your urine.  

Both men and women can get a UTI. However, it’s more common in women because they have shorter urethras, making it easier for bacteria to reach their bladders. In fact, almost half of all women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime.

Can you treat a UTI without antibiotics? 

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of a UTI, you should always check in with your doctor first. 

Because they’re at higher risk for complications, men and pregnant women should never try to treat a UTI at home, according to Rena Malik, M.D., a urologist and director of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

But for some women with no other serious health problems, it can be possible to treat a UTI at home, without antibiotics. For instance, mild or uncomplicated UTIs may clear out of the bladder naturally, as a strong immune system can help resolve these infections.  

To boost your immune system and help reduce your risk of severe UTIs, it’s important to stay well-hydrated and incorporate essential vitamins and nutrients into your diet. And while these methods won’t treat your UTI as effectively as antibiotics after it’s occured, they can help prevent future ones from occurring. 

Drink lots of water 

Drinking water and staying hydrated can help prevent and treat a UTI. This dilutes your urine so you’ll pee more frequently, helping to flush out the bacteria that’s causing your infection. 

“We recommend that all our patients who have recurrent UTIs drink about 2 to 3 liters of fluid per day,” Malik says. “This can include water, flavored water, and non-caffeinated beverages.”

For example, a study of 141 girls from three to 18 years old showed that inadequate fluid intake and infrequent urination were linked to recurrent UTIs.

You should also avoid drinking fluids that could irritate your bladder and worsen symptoms, such as alcohol and caffeinated beverages.

Consume cranberries 

There is some evidence that cranberries may help prevent UTIs. That’s because they contain proanthocyanidins (PACs), which may stop bacteria from sticking to your urinary tract lining.

One study found that it’s most effective to consume 36mg of cranberry PAC daily to help prevent a UTI. 

“You can drink a very concentrated juice that’s 100% cranberry with no sugar added, or you can take a capsule or tablet that has that dosing in it,” Malik says. 

However, she warns that many cranberry juices contain a lot of sugar but not enough PAC, and many cranberry supplements don’t contain enough PAC to be effective — so make sure you know what kind of cranberry products you’re consuming. 

For reference, an 8-ounce (240-milliliter) serving of an Ocean Spray cranberry juice drink has about 33 to 36mg of PACs, according to a 2017 article in the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) Journal.

Get vitamin C 

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) may increase the acidity of your urine, which can help kill the bacteria causing your UTI. There have been few studies, with mixed results, on whether vitamin C is effective for preventing UTIs.

In one study, pregnant women who took 100mg of vitamin C daily for three months had significantly fewer UTIs than pregnant women who didn’t take vitamin C. However, in another study, participants with spinal cord injuries who took 2,000mg of vitamin C daily did not have fewer UTIs than participants who didn’t increase their vitamin C intake.

“[Vitamin C] certainly won’t hurt you in a short period of time, but if you’re taking it over a long period of time, you should discuss that with your doctor,” Malik says. 

Fruits and vegetables especially high in vitamin C include oranges, grapefruit, and red bell peppers. You can also take a vitamin C supplement.

Try probiotics 

Probiotics are microorganisms that help balance the “bad” bacteria that can cause infections in your body, such as E. coli, with the “good” bacteria that assist in digesting food properly. 

In addition, the probiotic strain lactobacillus may help prevent UTIs by stopping the bad bacteria from adhering to your urinary tract. That’s because lactobacillus produces antibacterial hydrogen peroxide, which makes it difficult for certain bacteria to survive. 

Lactobacillus is available in supplements. It’s also found in yogurt and fermented foods such as kimchi, miso, and sauerkraut.

In one small study, lactobacillus was found to be effective in preventing UTIs in premenopausal women. But another review didn’t find enough evidence to recommend its use.  

Malik says “the jury is still out” on how effective probiotics are for preventing UTIs, and you should talk with your doctor to see if using them could be right for you. 

The bottom line

These at-home remedies may help prevent or treat a UTI, as long as your doctor deems them safe for you.  

Additionally, there are a few general lifestyle behaviors you can practice to help prevent UTIs before they occur, including: 

  • When you feel like you have to urinate, go — don’t hold it.
  • After urinating and especially after a bowel movement, wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering your urethra.
  • Urinate before and after having sex.
  • Avoid using scented soaps, bubble baths, or douches.
  • Don’t wear tight pants.

If you do experience the symptoms of a UTI, it’s important to check in with your doctor before attempting to treat it yourself. Together, you can determine whether you’ll need antibiotics, or if you can treat your UTI at home. 

Related articles from our Health Reference library:

What to Do and When to See a Doctor

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are very common, particularly in women. A UTI is an infection of the urinary system, which includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Usually, UTIs are an infection of the lower urinary tract, which is your bladder and urethra.

Urinary tract infections happen when bacteria enter your body through the urethra and then spread and multiply in the bladder. The growing bacteria can cause an infection of the urinary tract. 

While some people with a UTI don’t experience symptoms, others do. Symptoms may include:

  • A strong, constant feeling that you need to urinate
  • A burning feeling when you urinate
  • Cloudy urine
  • Blood in the urine (including pink, red, or brown urine)
  • Pain in the pelvis, especially in the center

You may be able to cure a mild urinary tract infection at home.

Remedies and Treatment for UTI

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections sometimes go away on their own. In one study, 21 out of 28 women’s infections disappeared without treatment.

Here are a few UTI remedies you can try at home to relieve symptoms and speed your recovery:

Consume Cranberries

Cranberries have been used to treat UTIs for centuries. This is because cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, chemicals that prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. Cranberries also contain quinic acid, which works to kill bacteria in the urinary tract. 

While some studies have found that cranberry juice or pills may help treat UTIs, other studies have found no positive effects of cranberries. Even if cranberries don’t actually help treat UTIs, the fruit is unlikely to cause you harm. However, don’t drink cranberry juice if you’re on blood thinners, like warfarin.

Avoid Diuretics and Irritants

Certain drinks may irritate the bladder, including coffee, alcohol, citrus and caffeinated drinks. Avoiding these liquids may help you relieve some symptoms, such as burning during urination. These drinks also act as diuretics, which will make you need to urinate more frequently, possibly making the UTI symptoms more irritating.

Incorporate Probiotics

Probiotics, live bacteria found in some foods and supplements, are important in maintaining natural balance in the vagina, urethra, and bladder. Probiotic supplements help avoid an overgrowth of E. Coli, the bacteria that commonly cause UTIs. Not only can probiotics help treat UTIs, but they also help you prevent UTIs in the future. Probiotics can be found in foods like yogurt. Probiotic pills can also be taken by mouth or inserted into the vagina.

Use a Heating Pad

Another simple home remedy is placing a heating pad on your abdomen. This can help lessen your discomfort.

Hydrate

Make sure you are drinking plenty of water to help flush out your urinary system.

Prioritize Prevention

Instead of only treating UTIs, you can make a point to avoid them. There are several actions you can take to help avoid urinary tract infections in the future. Follow these tips to help prevent UTIs long-term:

  • Urinate after having sex to help flush out any bacteria
  • Stay hydrated, and don’t resist the urge to urinate
  • Wipe from front to back after urinating or defecating
  • Avoid diaphragms and spermicide condoms
  • Avoiding scented products near your genital region, as they can irritate the urethra

Increased levels of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in your diet may also help prevent urinary tract infections. Scientists believe that this is because vitamin C makes the urine more acidic, which helps to prevent bacterial infections of the urinary tract.

When to See a Doctor

If your urinary tract infection does not clear up on its own, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics.

UTIs can be dangerous if the infection spreads to your kidneys. Go see your doctor if you experience fevers, shaking, nausea, or vomiting, as these may be signs of a more serious infection.

If a UTI is left untreated, kidney damage can occur. Sepsis, a life-threatening medical emergency, is also possible. In pregnant women, leaving a UTI untreated can lead to premature birth. In men, it can lead to narrowing of the urethra.

Treatment for Bladder Infection in Children

How do health care professionals treat bladder infections in children?

Bladder infections in children are treated with antibiotics, a type of medicine that fights bacteria.

Medicines

Which antibiotic your child takes is based on age, any allergies to antibiotics, and the type of bacteria causing the UTI. Children older than 2 months usually take an antibiotic by mouth—as a liquid or as a chewable tablet.

Your child may go to a hospital for intravenous (IV) antibiotics if the child is younger than 2 months old or vomiting. IV medicines are given through a vein.

Your child should start to feel better within a day or two, but it’s important to take every dose of the antibiotic on time and to finish all the medicine. The infection could come back if your child stops taking the antibiotic too soon.

The length of treatment depends on

  • how severe the infection is
  • whether a child’s symptoms and infection go away
  • whether a child has repeated bladder infections
  • whether the child has vesicoureteral reflux or another problem in the urinary tract

At-home treatments

Children should drink plenty of liquids and urinate often to speed healing. Drinking water is best. Ask your health care professional how much liquid your child should drink.

A heating pad on a child’s back or abdomen may help ease pain from a kidney or bladder infection.

How can I help my child prevent a bladder infection?

Drinking enough liquids, following good bathroom and diapering habits, wearing loose-fitting clothes, and getting treated for related health problems may help prevent a UTI in a child or teen.

Be sure your child drinks enough liquids

Drinking more liquids may help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Talk with a health care professional about how much liquid your child should drink, and which beverages are best to help prevent a repeat UTI.

Drinking plenty of liquids can help ease or prevent bladder infections in children. Water is best.

Follow good bathroom and diapering habits

Some children simply don’t urinate often enough. Children should urinate often and when they first feel the need to go. Bacteria can grow and cause an infection when urine stays in the bladder too long. Caregivers should change diapers often for infants and toddlers, and should clean the genital area well. Gentle cleansers that do not irritate the skin are best.

Your child should always wipe from front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement. This step is most important after a bowel movement to keep bacteria from getting into the urethra and bladder.

Avoid constipation

Hard stools can press against the urinary tract and block the flow of urine, allowing bacteria to grow. Helping your child have regular bowel movements can prevent constipation.

Wear loose-fitting clothing

Consider having children wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes so air can keep the area around the urethra dry.

Treat related health problems

When a child’s bladder doesn’t work exactly as it should—called dysfunctional voiding—treatments may help the bladder work better and prevent repeated infections. The muscles that control urination may be out of sync. Or, your child’s bladder may be overactive or underactive.

Health care professionals can treat these types of bladder problems with medicines, behavior changes, or both. Children often grow out of these bladder problems naturally over time.

If your child has vesicoureteral reflux, a urinary tract blockage, or an anatomical problem, see a pediatric urologist or other specialist. Treating these conditions may help prevent repeated bladder infections.

Diabetes and other health conditions can increase the risk for a bladder infection. Ask your child’s health care professional how to reduce the risk of developing a bladder infection.


This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. The NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by the NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.

The NIDDK would like to thank:
Saul P. Greenfield, MD, FAAP, FACS, State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine; Jeffrey M. Saland, MD, MSCR, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai

UTI Bath Remedies | Good Idea or Bad Idea?

UTI Bath Remedies and Other Treatment Options

Urinary tract infections (UTI) can be painful and distracting. A urinary tract infection is an infection in any part of your urinary system. Your urinary system includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Will a Bath Help a UTI?

A bath may help relieve some pain from your UTI, but it will not cure it and could make it worse. Taking a bath in the tub may cause bacteria in the bathwater to enter into the urethra causing more harm.

A UTI bath remedy is often referred to as a “sitz bath.” A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath used to cleanse the genital area, especially the area between your rectum and vulva. Sitz baths can ease the pain of a UTI but are not a reliable solution for UTI treatment and are not recommended by medical professionals.

Natural Remedies for a UTI

There are other natural remedies for UTIs that may be worth a try for symptom relief.

Natural remedies for a UTI are common. One common natural remedy for a UTI is to increase your fluid intake. That is, drink more water! Drinking more water will make you produce more urine, thus flushing out the bacteria from your urinary tract. This helps flush out the bacteria and helps you heal faster.

Probiotics are used as natural remedies for gut and vagina health. Your body is full of “good” and “bad” bacteria. When the “bad” bacteria overgrow the “good” bacteria, an infection is present. Probiotics help keep the good bacteria more colonized than the “bad” bacteria. A probiotic is a live microorganism that has health benefits. Probiotics can be found in yogurt, fermented foods, and dietary supplements.

If your urine passes through your urinary system, then making your urine acidic would also kill certain bacteria causing the infection. Taking vitamin C tablets can result in more acidic urine which will kill urinary bacteria. If you do not want to take a vitamin C tablet, these foods are high in vitamin C:

  • Oranges
  • Grapefruit
  • Kiwi
  • Citrus fruits
  • Tomatoes
  • Tomato juice
  • Red peppers
  • Green peppers
  • Broccoli
  • Strawberries
  • Brussel sprouts

Another home remedy for UTIs include drinking unsweetened cranberry juice. Cranberries work by preventing bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall lining. Cranberry juice is used to help reduce the risk of urinary tract infection and is only applicable with unsweetened juice, not the sweetened brands.

Having good hygiene is another remedy for a UTI. Women especially should practice cleaning themselves from front to back after using the restroom. If you wipe from back to front, you move fecal particles towards your urinary opening. Allowing bacteria to enter more freely. Good hygiene practices decrease the risk of recurrent UTIs.

How To Prevent UTIs

If you are prone to UTIs it is better to be proactive against UTI infections than reactive. Some proactive tips to prevent future UTIs include:

  • Drink plenty of liquids, especially water
  • Drink pure cranberry juice (low sugar)
  • Wipe from front to back after using the restroom
  • Empty your bladder soon after intercourse
  • Avoid potentially irritating feminine products such as sprays or deodorants
  • Wear cotton underwear
  • Avoid too tight-fitting clothes
  • Avoid bubble baths

What Are The Symptoms of a UTI?

Urinary tract infections are often associated with painful urination that has frequency or hesitancy. Some common signs and symptoms of a UTI are:

  • Burning sensation while urinating
  • A strong persistent urge to urinate
  • Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
  • Urine that appears cloudy
  • Urine that has a strong odor
  • Urine that appears bloody, bright pink, or cola colored.
  • Pelvic pain
  • Fever

Women are more at risk than men to developing urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections usually occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder or other parts of the urinary tract.


Read: What is Interstitial Cystitis?


How Can I Get Relief From a UTI?

Drinking liberal amounts of fluids daily will flush out the bacteria. It may be helpful to drink pure cranberry juice because it contains an ingredient called A-type proanthocyanidins that can prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall.

It is best to avoid coffee, tea, colas, alcohol, and other fluids that are known to irritate the urinary system. Taking a vitamin C supplement may also help with UTIs because it makes your urine more acidic.

Pain relief such as a heat pack can be applied to the perineum area or lower abdomen to help relieve pain and spasms. This is also why prolonged warm baths relieve pain, but due to the risk of bacteria entering the urethra, they should be avoided.

How Do You Get Rid of a UTI in 24 Hours?

You cannot automatically get rid of a UTI in 24 hours, but you can get relief from symptoms within 24 hours. The pain associated with UTIs are quickly relieved once effective antimicrobial therapy is initiated.

Antibiotics are the first line of treatment for a UTI and work the fastest as they quickly eliminate bacteria. Many people report feeling relief from antibiotics in as little as 24 hours.

Untreated UTI and Complicated UTI

Ignoring the signs of a UTI can cause serious complications. Some complications of an untreated UTI include:

  • Urosepsis (severe urinary tract infection causing sepsis)
  • Sepsis (the body`s reaction to infection damages tissues)
  • Acute kidney injury (kidney damage)
  • Kidney infection (severe UTI infection)

These complications are potentially life threatening. Never let your UTI go untreated and seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of the above conditions.

How Can I Get Rid of a UTI Without Antibiotics?

If you frequently get UTIs you may be able to identify the early signs of a UTI and prevent it from getting more serious without antibiotics using the above natural remedies.

That said, some UTIs will require antibiotic treatment and it is important to know when to call a doctor in order to reduce the risk of serious complications.

If you catch your UTI early, some over the counter UTI remedies you can try for symptoms management are:

  • AZO urinary tract defense
  • AZO urinary pain relief
  • AZO urinary pain relief-maximum strength

That said, if your UTI does not go away or gets worse over time it is critical that you seek medical attention.

UTI online treatment online

If natural remedies are not providing relief, you need to see a doctor to talk about your urinary tract infection symptoms. You may need antibiotic therapy in order to cure the infection and not have complications.

A board-certified PlushCare doctor can work with you to diagnose your UTI and prescribe a treatment plan all from your phone or computer. The doctor will work with you to determine the best medication for you to take and will check on you to ensure the care plan is working. You can get this care without even leaving home.

Book an online appointment here, or download the free PlushCare mobile app. The average UTI appointment lasts just 15 minutes and 97% of conditions are successfully treated on the first visit. Don’t suffer with a UTI any longer, same day appointments are available.


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Cystitis – Better Health Channel

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is an infection of the bladder that almost always follows (is secondary to) bacterial infection in the urine. It is the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI), particularly in women.

The bladder is a muscular bag that stores urine from the kidneys. Urine leaves the body through a tube called the urethra. Cystitis occurs when bacteria travel up the urethra, infect the urine and inflame the bladder lining. 

Most women will experience cystitis at least once in their lives. While it is painful and annoying, it isn’t dangerous or contagious, and the infection can’t be passed on to your partner during sex.

If left untreated, the infection can ‘backtrack’ deeper into the urinary system from the bladder and reach the kidneys. A kidney infection is serious and needs prompt medical attention as it can cause kidney damage or even kidney failure.

Symptoms of cystitis

Cystitis can be mild to severe. The symptoms include:

  • frequent urge to urinate, if only to pass a few drops
  • burning pain or a ‘scalding’ sensation on urination
  • strong-smelling urine
  • cloudy or bloody urine
  • pain in your lower abdomen
  • blood in your urine.

Treatment for cystitis

The earliest symptom of cystitis is usually a faint prickling feeling on passing urine. It is possible to get rid of mild cystitis if you take action immediately. Some suggestions include:

  • Drink plenty of liquids.
  • Take a commercial urinary alkaliser (ask your pharmacist for advice) or one teaspoon of baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) in water.
  • Avoid acidic foods or drinks as they cancel out the effect of urinary alkalisers and can aggravate the burning when passing urine.

If self-help treatments aren’t working, seek medical advice quickly. Your GP will probably test your urine to check which micro-organism is present. Cystitis can be treated with a course (or more than one course) of antibiotics.

Regular or severe attacks of cystitis need to be investigated by a GP, because an underlying disorder such as kidney stones or a kidney infection could be the trigger.

Cause of cystitis

The most common bug or bacterium causing urinary tract infection is Escherichia coli (E. coli). The bacterium is often found when the urine is examined under a microscope – this test is called a microscopy and culture (M&C) of urine.

E. coli is commonly found in the digestive tract and bowel. Under normal conditions, it is harmless. However, E. coli thrives in the acidic environment of the bladder, where it multiplies and inflames the bladder lining.

Cystitis in women

Women in their late teens and older are most susceptible to cystitis, especially if they are sexually active. The female urethra is only 4 cm long, which gives bacteria easy access to the bladder. 

Female sex hormones influence the vaginal secretions that affect the ability of bacteria to survive. This makes women more susceptible to infection:

  • during certain stages of the menstrual cycle
  • during pregnancy
  • during menopause
  • after a total hysterectomy.

Cystitis in men and older people

Men tend to get cystitis later in life. Where trouble with urine flow is a symptom, this may indicate that the underlying cause is a problem with their prostate gland.

Cystitis is common in older people, particularly if they are unwell. Bladder catheters and some urinary-tract operations may also increase the risk of cystitis.

Cystitis in children

Cystitis in a child always needs to be investigated, because it may indicate a more serious condition such as urinary reflux (also known as vesicoureteric reflux). This is a bladder-valve problem, which allows urine to flow back towards the kidneys.

Long-term prevention of cystitis

In some women, one bout of cystitis allows their urinary system to build up a type of immunity and further bouts are rare. For other women, cystitis can occur regularly.

Although not always backed up by research, some women have found that useful suggestions include:

  • Go to the toilet to pass urine as soon as you feel the urge, rather than holding on.
  • Drink plenty of water every day to flush your urinary system.
  • Wipe yourself from front to back (urethra to anus) after going to the toilet.
  • Wash your genitals before sex and encourage your partner to do the same.
  • Urinate after sex.
  • Wear cotton rather than nylon underwear.
  • Avoid wearing nylon pantyhose, tight pants or tight jeans.
  • Don’t use perfumed soaps, talcum powder or any type of deodorant around your genitals.
  • Avoid bubble baths.
  • Treat vaginal infections such as thrush or trichomoniasis promptly, since these organisms can encourage cystitis.

Cranberries (usually as cranberry juice) have been used to prevent UTIs. Cranberries contain a substance that can prevent the E. coli bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract lining cells. However, recent research has shown that cranberry juice does not have a significant benefit in preventing UTIs, and most people are unable to continue drinking the juice on a long-term basis.

Let your GP know if you’re having cranberry juice as it can alter the effectiveness of some antibiotics.

Where to get help

Cystitis – NHS

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by a bladder infection.

It’s a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI), particularly in women, and is usually more of a nuisance than a cause for serious concern.

Mild cases will often get better by themselves within a few days.

But some people experience episodes of cystitis frequently and may need regular or long-term treatment.

There’s also a chance that cystitis could lead to a more serious kidney infection in some cases, so it’s important to seek medical advice if your symptoms do not improve.

Signs and symptoms of cystitis

The main symptoms of cystitis include:

  • pain, burning or stinging when you pee
  • needing to pee more often and urgently than normal
  • urine that’s dark, cloudy or strong smelling
  • pain low down in your tummy
  • feeling generally unwell, achy, sick and tired

Possible symptoms in young children include:

  • pain in their tummy
  • needing to pee urgently or more often
  • a high temperature (fever) of 38C or above
  • weakness or irritability
  • reduced appetite and vomiting

When to see a GP

Women do not necessarily need to see a GP if they have cystitis, as mild cases often get better without treatment.

Try some self-help measures or ask a pharmacist for advice.

See a GP if:

  • you’re not sure whether you have cystitis
  • your symptoms do not start to improve within 3 days
  • you get cystitis frequently
  • you have severe symptoms, such as blood in your urine, a fever or pain in your side
  • you’re pregnant and have symptoms of cystitis
  • you’re a man and have symptoms of cystitis
  • your child has symptoms of cystitis

A GP should be able to diagnose cystitis by asking about your symptoms.

They may test a sample of your urine for bacteria to help confirm the diagnosis.

What causes cystitis?

Most cases are thought to occur when bacteria that live harmlessly in the bowel or on the skin get into the bladder through the tube that carries urine out of your body (urethra).

It’s not always clear how this happens.

But some things can increase your risk of getting it, including:

  • having sex
  • wiping your bottom from back to front after going to the toilet
  • having a thin tube inserted into the urethra to drain the bladder (urinary catheter)
  • being younger than 1 or older than 75
  • being pregnant
  • using a diaphragm for contraception
  • having diabetes
  • having a weakened immune system

Women may get cystitis more often than men because their bottom (anus) is closer to their urethra and their urethra is much shorter, which means bacteria may be able to get into the bladder more easily.

How you can treat cystitis yourself

If you have been having mild symptoms for less than 3 days or you have had cystitis before and do not feel you need to see a GP, you may want to treat your symptoms at home or ask a pharmacist for advice.

Until you’re feeling better, it may help to:

  • take paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • drink plenty of water
  • hold a hot water bottle on your tummy or between your thighs
  • avoid having sex
  • pee frequently
  • wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet
  • gently wash around your genitals with a skin-sensitive soap

Some people believe that cranberry drinks and products that reduce the acidity of their urine (such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium citrate) will help.

But there’s a lack of evidence to suggest they’re effective.

Treatments for cystitis from a GP

If you see a GP and they diagnose you with cystitis, you’ll usually be prescribed a course of antibiotics to treat the infection.

These should start to have an effect within a day or 2.

If you keep getting cystitis, a GP may give you an antibiotic prescription to take to a pharmacy whenever you develop symptoms, without needing to see a doctor first.

Your GP can also prescribe a low dose of antibiotics for you to take continuously over several months.

Preventing cystitis

If you get cystitis frequently, there are some things you can try that may stop it coming back.

But it’s not clear how effective most of these measures are.

These measures include:

  • not using perfumed bubble bath, soap or talcum powder around your genitals (use plain unperfumed varieties)
  • having a shower, rather than a bath (this avoids exposing your genitals to the chemicals in your cleaning products for too long)
  • going to the toilet as soon as you need to pee and always emptying your bladder fully
  • staying well hydrated (drinking plenty of fluids may help to stop bacteria multiplying in your bladder)
  • always wiping your bottom from front to back when you go to the toilet
  • emptying your bladder as soon as possible after having sex
  • not using a diaphragm for contraception (you may wish to use another method of contraception instead)
  • wearing underwear made from cotton, rather than synthetic material, such as nylon, and not wearing tight jeans and trousers

Drinking cranberry juice has traditionally been recommended as a way of reducing your chances of getting cystitis.

But large studies have suggested it does not make a significant difference.

Interstitial cystitis

If you have long-term or frequent pelvic pain and problems peeing, you may have a condition called interstitial cystitis.

This is a poorly understood bladder condition that mostly affects middle-aged women.

Unlike regular cystitis, there’s no obvious infection in the bladder and antibiotics do not help.

But a doctor may be able to recommend a number of other treatments to reduce your symptoms.

Find out more about interstitial cystitis

Page last reviewed: 09 August 2018
Next review due: 09 August 2021

Home Remedies for UTIs | Health.com

Maybe you’ve heard other people’s UTI nightmares: the friend who gets one almost every time she has sex; the 70-something aunt who struggles with recurring infections now that she’s older. Or maybe you’re dealing with symptoms seemingly out of the blue or after a weekend of hot tubbing.

When symptoms surface, the cause doesn’t exactly matter; all you want to know is how to get rid of your UTI.

Antibiotics are the main treatment, especially if you have a raging infection. But when symptoms are mild or vague, it may be worth giving natural remedies for a UTI a try before popping a prescription pill or while you’re waiting for your meds to kick in.

So what exactly is a UTI? A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is a general term for any infection along the urinary tract. Infections usually start in the lower urinary tract, where the urethra (the tube that allows urine to pass out of the body) and bladder (where urine is stored) are located.

Sometimes UTIs travel to the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and kidneys (where urine is produced).

Anyone can get a UTI and at any age, including babies, toddlers, and men—but these infections are much more common in women. Doctors say it’s an anatomy thing: Women’s urethras are shorter than men’s and closer to the anus, so it’s easier for bacteria to enter the body and ascend the urinary tract.

Most UTIs are bladder infections (also called cystitis). Common symptoms include burning; lower abdominal pain; and a frequent or urgent need to urinate, even if you barely have a trickle of pee to pass.

If the infection travels from the bladder to one or both kidneys, more worrisome symptoms can develop. Kidney infections (also called pyelonephritis) are a type of UTI that can spike a fever and cause back pain; nausea; vomiting; and bloody, cloudy, or foul-smelling urine.

RELATED: 7 Things Every Woman Should Know About UTIs

Thomas Hooton, MD, professor of clinical medicine at the University of Miami School of Medicine, tells patients with recurrent infections who have mild symptoms to “try to treat it naturally with increased fluid and some pain relief.” If UTI symptoms improve in a day or two, “well, then, you’ve saved yourself an antibiotic,” he says.

That’s important, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), because overuse of antibiotics can render these drugs ineffective against future bacterial infections, including recurrent UTIs.

If symptoms are bad or don’t improve, “by all means,” Dr. Hooton says, “call the doctor and get an antibiotic.”

Older, post-menopausal women experiencing repeated UTIs should speak with a doctor about a prescription for vaginal estrogen, adds Nazema Siddiqui, MD, assistant professor of urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgery at Duke University Medical Center. Research shows it can help by building the body’s defense against bad bugs.

If your child has urinary symptoms (which can differ from your own), consult your pediatrician and seek immediate care if fever and other signs of illness last more than 24 hours. Young children are at greater risk of kidney damage from UTIs than older kids and adults, says the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

That said, there are times when it makes sense for UTI sufferers to go the home-remedy route because some things may actually help. Here’s how to treat a UTI at home.

RELATED: What Does It Mean if You’re Peeing Blood? We Asked a Doctor

How to pluck a duck at home quickly and correctly (+ video)

Duck meat is a tasty and nutritious product. However, before preparing it, it is necessary to carry out a number of manipulations in the form of plucking feathers and proper cutting of the carcass. Experienced farmers already know how to pluck a duck quickly and efficiently, getting not only meat, but also excellent fluff. But for novice poultry breeders and hunter’s household, the article will help to understand this not very pleasant, but necessary procedure.

Contents of article

General recommendations

A suitable time for the slaughter of young domestic ducks is selected not only according to the fattening of the mass, but also according to the state of plumage. By this time, the birds should have finished juvenile molt, and the ducks are completely covered with feathers. As a rule, this is about 3 months for the Indo-breed and 2-2.5 months for the Peking breed. An adult bird is also checked before slaughter by plucking several feathers from it.

It is not recommended to slaughter ducks during molt.

If the feather comes off easily, the plucking process will be much easier and better. By slaughtering livestock during molt, plucking can be much more difficult, which will be uneven.To obtain meat without hemp in the skin, slaughter should be postponed for a week or two, allowing the new young feathers to grow long enough. If it is impossible to select, the pen is removed with the skin.

Plucking is started 2-4 hours after slaughter. During this time, the subcutaneous fat will freeze in the bird, which will avoid skin tears when plucking. Although, with the dry method, pinching the feather to the procedure can be started without delay.

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Plucking should begin with the largest flight feathers located on the tail and wings, which are removed in the direction of their growth to avoid damage to the skin.The back and chest, neck and finally the legs of the duck are cleaned alternately from the feather.

Small feathers can be pulled out in any direction, but do it carefully, especially on delicate areas of the skin, so as not to tear it. You should try to clean the entire carcass as much as possible, except for the cover on the neck and head. Jerks should be sharp and short. Feathers are trapped in small tufts, which will also keep the skin from tearing.

After plucking, the duck carcass is seared with a gas burner.

The remaining fluff is removed by clamping it between the blunt side of the knife and the thumb.A small sprinkle of water will help to avoid scattering of light fluff. If the bird’s feather is planned to be used in the future, then when pinching it is advisable to immediately sort it into different containers.

To completely clean the skin, burn the carcass using a gas burner. To remove excess moisture, the duck is pre-rubbed with flour. Straightening the skin folds and wings, the whole carcass is processed with fire. To do this, you can also use a bundle of straw, which, unlike the burner, will not leave an unpleasant smell, but, on the contrary, will give the aroma of a fire.At home, you can burn a bird over the burner of a gas stove or using dry alcohol. The flame treatment is carried out quickly to preserve the skin and not melt the fat.

Attention. Large feathers must be removed by hand before singeing to prevent carcass fires. It is best to use metal tongs to avoid accidental burns.

At the end, soot and flour residues are washed off with a large amount of water, and the carcass is wiped dry with a clean cloth.

Methods of plucking duck

There are several ways of plucking poultry. These are dry and hot processing methods. After reviewing all the options, each owner chooses according to his preference. For long-term storage of meat in the freezer, only the dry method of separating the feathers is suitable; with hot methods, the duck must be immediately processed into a food product.

After hot processing, the meat changes its natural color to red, moreover, in this case, it will no longer be possible to use the feather as a filler for clothes and bedding.Care must be taken when working with hot water, the carcass itself and the iron to avoid burns. The advantage of hot methods of plucking over dry ones is the ease of separation of the feather and the absence of flying fluff.

The duck can be plucked in a variety of ways.

Dry method

The dry method is the simplest and most common. Plucking can be started immediately after slaughter, while the carcass is warm. This is the opinion of hunters who use this technique for processing game.

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As the necessary equipment, you will need a deep container for down and a container with water for moistening in order to avoid it scattering in the air.

Milestones:

  1. In front of you, you need to lay out a blanket, sheet or newspapers and sit down, placing the carcass between your knees upside down.
  2. Holding the skin with one hand, the other makes sharp but neat jerks. If the skin breaks, then further plucking of the feather will become difficult.
  3. A non-sharp knife is also useful, with the help of which unripened short feathers are plucked.
  4. Down and feathers not removed by mechanical means are destroyed by singeing.
  5. The washed duck is ready to be eviscerated.

Hot scalding

The method is also often used by poultry farmers. To some, it may seem more complicated than the previous one, but with the necessary skill, everything turns out easily and quickly. To do this, you will need a large saucepan or basin that can fully accommodate the duck. You can additionally use a kettle.

In the hot method, the duck carcass is first scalded in water.

Procedure sequence:

  1. Heat the water in a saucepan to 80 degrees.The water should not boil because boiling water can burst the skin, and it will no longer be possible to pluck the feathers. Temperatures below this will not give the desired effect.
  2. Place the carcass in the water. Young birds are kept in a container for 1 to 5 minutes. Old bird carcasses can be kept for up to 10-15 minutes. Longer processing is fraught with the fact that the skin can be cooked and subsequently removed along with the feathers.
  3. Alternatively, you can pour the duck with heated water from the kettle, trying to get on all the feathers and leave it in the saucepan for 15 minutes.
  4. The scalded carcass is removed from the water and immediately begins to pluck, hanging it by its paws for ease of processing. In this case, it is more convenient to remove the feather against its growth.
  5. Further singeing will help get rid of the remaining lasts and lint.
  6. Soot is removed by washing.

Hot method with bag and iron

This method of plucking also deserves attention, although it is used less often than the previous ones.

When scalding with an iron, the skin on the duck carcass does not tear, the feather comes off easily.

It is carried out with an iron, boiling water and natural fiber burlap in the following sequence:

  1. Soak a canvas bag in boiling water and wring it out with care.
  2. Place the duck in the bag, wrap it tightly and leave to lie for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Using the maximum heated iron, iron the bundle evenly several times.
  4. Unfold the burlap and start processing the carcass in the same sequence.

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The method is convenient in that the heated feather is easily removed, and the risk of damage to the skin is minimal. Therefore, it is used by hunters for wounded game with punctured skin. Unlike scalding, meat retains its color.

Important. Hot working methods, although simple, are traumatic. It is better to remove the carcass from the water with tongs. Be careful when starting the plucking process, as a wet feather remains hot for a long time. It is worth being careful with a hot iron.

Of course, the listed methods of freeing duck carcasses from feathers are suitable only in the presence of a small number of birds. The owners of large poultry farms know how to quickly cope with this task with a feathering machine. However, small feathering attachments for a screwdriver can facilitate the procedure and are quite affordable even for the owner of several birds in the yard.

The fastest way to pluck a duck carcass is to use a feather picker.

Preserving duck feathers and down

In addition to meat products, ducks are capable of producing wonderful material in the form of down and feathers.Duck down is less valuable than eider, swan or goose down. However, it also has excellent thermal insulation properties. Down and small feathers will serve as a good filler for blankets and pillows, and the rest of the feather will come in handy in the kitchen for greasing baked goods, various crafts and decoration.

As mentioned above, a recyclable material can be obtained by dry plucking.

Proper preparation of raw materials will allow them to be used for up to ten years or more:

  1. Sorting .It is more convenient to carry out pinching during the process, immediately separating a small feather with down from a large one.
  2. Wash . To get rid of grease, odor and dirt, the collected mass is soaked in a warm solution of soapy water for 2-3 hours. Then you need to thoroughly rinse the raw materials in a large amount of cool water and squeeze.
  3. Drying . Clean fluff is dried in a cloth bag in a ventilated dry place or in the sun. To avoid rotting, the feather is subjected to periodic shaking and tedding.

Many poultry farmers retain duck down and feathers when plucked.

Rules for butchering duck

After plucking, singing and washing the duck, it is advisable to immediately start gutting it. The neck is cut off first. The first step is to remove the intestines to prevent spoilage of the product, especially in the warm season. To do this, you need to carefully make a hole at the cloaca and pull out the intestines through it, while cutting out the sebaceous gland.

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The esophagus and goiter are taken out through the opening in the neck.The abdomen is then cut open to gut the lungs, heart, liver, and stomach. These by-products are set aside separately for preparing various dishes from them. Fat is separated and deposited, which can later be melted and used for frying. The wings are cut at the first joint, the legs are cut just below the heel joint. You can also remove the neck, which is of little nutritional value.

The gutted carcass is thoroughly washed from blood residues with repeated water changes. After the water has drained and dried, the carcasses are ready for freezing.
If duck is supposed to be cooked in parts, then the next step will be cutting the carcass.

After plucking, the duck carcass must be gutted and cut.

Having felt the joints, cuts are made along them and first the hams are separated, then the wings. Laying the duck carcass on its back, make a cut along the keel and separate the loin. The remaining bone skeleton from the ribs and the spine is separated and further used to prepare broths.The skin is sent to the fat mass for melting.

Now you can start your final goal – cooking duck meat.

After getting acquainted with how you can manually pluck and butcher a duck, we hope that you will succeed quickly, efficiently and without unnecessary hassle.

In the video, the farmer shows the whole process of plucking and cutting a duck carcass.

How to pluck a duck quickly and easily: 3 ways

Knowing how to pluck a duck quickly and correctly at home should not only be a farmer, but also a city dweller; it is never known when this skill might come in handy.After all, now you can buy fresh duck on the market that has not yet been plucked. Our article will help you not to get confused and to carry out this procedure in accordance with all the rules.

Before we move on to the analysis of specific methods of plucking feathers from ducks, pay attention to the general rules and recommendations.

General recommendations

So, you should not pluck ducks immediately after slaughter, according to experts, you need to wait at least 2-3 hours. This pause will give you the opportunity to preserve the skin, as the subcutaneous fat will harden during this time.It is best to start plucking with large feathers, for example, from the wings and tail, gradually, as they peel, moving to small ones. It is necessary to pull out feathers in the direction of their growth and in no case do not mind. In many sources, you can find the opposite information, but experienced poultry farmers recommend plucking this way, as this allows you to maximally protect delicate areas of the skin from injury. But note that these recommendations apply only to large feathers, small ones can be plucked both in the direction of growth and against.

After getting rid of feathers, a light fluff may remain on the skin, it is best to remove it with a blunt knife. A little advice from experienced farmers: so that the fluff does not fly in all directions and does not interfere with your work, you must sprinkle it with water before plucking.

Having familiarized ourselves superficially with this procedure, let’s find out more specifically about how to pluck a duck correctly and what methods are best to use.

Dry method

The dry method is considered the simplest and most affordable method of plucking.If you know a few rules and nuances, then this procedure can be done as quickly and effortlessly as possible. Interestingly, this is the method used by hunters to pluck the game, as they believe that it is best to pluck the bird while it is warm.

Remember that the most important thing is not to damage the delicate skin of the duck when plucking, otherwise it will begin to crumble and the procedure will be much more difficult, and in some cases impossible.

So, let’s look at how to quickly pluck a duck:

  1. Place the duck on a newspaper or sheet that has been spread beforehand, and start pulling out all the largest feathers.It is best to start with the wings and tail, gradually moving towards the back. Plucking, as mentioned above, is best in the direction of feather growth, as this will minimize damage to the delicate skin of the duck.
  2. The chest and neck should be plucked last, as the smallest feathers grow here.
  3. After plucking, fine fluff will remain on the duck’s skin, it is almost impossible to remove it with your hands, therefore the following 2 methods are recommended: remove with a blunt knife or dust the duck carcass with flour and scorch it.The carcass must be kept over the fire for no longer than 2 minutes, otherwise the subcutaneous fat will begin to melt and the skin will burn.
  4. Finally, the carcass is well washed under running water and cleaned of soot.

This is by far the easiest way to pluck a duck quickly.

Hot picking methods

Hot picking methods are also common among poultry keepers. But after hot plucking, it is recommended to cook the poultry immediately, since after scalding the meat quickly deteriorates.With dry feathering, you can place the bird in the freezer for a long time.

Scalding

The most famous hot method of plucking is scalding the carcass.

Please note that it is not necessary to start plucking immediately after slaughter. At least 4 hours should pass. After this time, you can safely proceed to the procedure.

So:

  1. Heat the water to 80 degrees in a large saucepan or pot.Please note that the water should not boil, otherwise the skin on the carcass will simply burst and it will be almost impossible to pluck the feathers.
  2. Dip the duck in the saucepan for no more than one minute.
  3. Then proceed with the plucking procedure. With this method, feathers will be easier to remove if you pluck against their growth.
  4. Begin plucking from the wings, moving to the tail. Last but not least, remove any down and feathers from your chest, back and neck.
  5. For the same purpose as in the first option, the carcass must be singed.
  6. Thoroughly rinse and remove any grime.

This method of plucking ducks has a slight disadvantage: after scalding with hot water, the duck meat turns red.

With the help of the bag

The method of plucking the duck with the bag is very common. For this procedure, you will need a bag, preferably a cloth bag, a basin and an iron.

So, let us consider in detail how to pluck a duck using this method:

  1. Soak a cloth bag for 10-15 minutes in boiling water.
  2. After this time, remove the bag and squeeze it well so that no water drips from it.
  3. Place the duck carcass in a bag, tie it well and dip in a bowl of hot water for 5-7 minutes.
  4. While the duck is in the water, heat the iron to the maximum temperature, and then begin to iron the poultry carcass well through the bag (after pulling it out of the basin, of course). You must do this as carefully as possible so that there are no creases. All this will greatly simplify the plucking procedure.
  5. After ironing the duck, remove it from the bag and begin to pluck.

Sometimes the question arises: how to pluck a duck in this way, if there is no iron at hand. You can use this method without ironing; this procedure speeds up the plucking a little, but if there is no iron, then you can easily cope without it. The only caveat is that you can hold the duck in the water a little longer.

Hot methods are very traumatic, because it is very easy to burn your hand on a hot bird or water.Be as careful as possible when singing the duck. It shouldn’t light up. Experienced farmers also recommend holding the carcass with tongs so as not to burn your hands.

Video “Plucking a duck with scalding”

In the video you can see how a duck is plucked after scalding it with boiling water.

Preserving the fluff

Do not rush to throw away the plucked feathers and fluff. After all, this is a very valuable material; filler is made from it for pillows, blankets and even everyone’s favorite down jackets.

Waterfowl down is the most valuable because it has good thermal insulation properties. The shelf life of duck down is about 10 years.

To preserve the down, after plucking it must be washed under warm water with the addition of a small amount of washing powder. It is best to soak the feathers in soapy water for several hours. During this time, the remains of duck fat, unpleasant odor and dirt will be washed off from the fluff. After “washing”, rinse the fluff well under cool water, then squeeze thoroughly.

Place the down in a bag and hang to dry. Please note that the room must be well ventilated and dry so that the fluff does not rot. If possible, hang the fluff out to dry in the sun. Shake the feathers periodically.

Now, after reading our article, you know all about how to pluck ducks easily and without much effort.

Video “Do-it-yourself plucking machine”

In the video, a man shows how to make a machine for plucking a bird, and demonstrates its work.

Slaughtering ducks, how to pluck and butcher a duck correctly, tips

It is not difficult to hammer a duck, but how to pluck a duck correctly, many do not know or have little experience. There are guidelines that everyone can follow to learn how to do it quickly. Of course, everyone who has had to do this has their own methods, but if you do not take into account some of the nuances, this can spoil the taste of the meat and affect its shelf life.

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Slaughter of poultry

The time when a duck is most suitable for slaughter can be determined by the state of its plumage.The most convenient moment is in 60-65 days, since by this time the feather cover has fully grown for the first time, while the feathers on the wings should not yet be mature, otherwise, it can be considered that the right moment for slaughter has been missed, the duck carcass will be bristly and will lose its attractive appearance. Postpone slaughtering for ten days to allow small feathers to branch, then plucking them will be much easier.

Before slaughtering a duck at home, it is first prepared for this. To clear the stomach and goiter of the poultry from food debris, it is recommended not to feed the ducks 12-16 hours before slaughter, although water can be given without restriction.It is imperative that the room where the selected bird is kept has lighting on the night before slaughter.

For slaughtering duck, like any other poultry, it is best to use a tried and true outdoor method. In a private house, this is easier and more convenient to do. You can always find a secluded spot in the yard to bleed the carcass.

  1. Hang the bird by its legs, with wings folded behind each other, or use cones, as in the photo above;
  2. Grasping your head, extend your neck and cut the carotid artery with a knife.During slaughter, keep the knife directed not perpendicular to the neck, but slightly downward;
  3. To completely bleed the carcass, it will need to be held in a suspended state for 5-10 minutes.

When the blood stops flowing, we proceed to the next stage – plucking.

Plucking methods

Not every housewife can enjoy the plucking process, but if you follow the exact algorithm and choose the most convenient method, you can get rid of feathers quickly and easily.There are several tried and tested methods for plucking duck. So, dry and hot (scalding) methods can be distinguished.

Dry processing

Consider how you can quickly process and clean the duck carcass from feathers. The most common method is dry. It is customary to apply it directly after the duck has been slaughtered.

  1. Sit on something so that you can keep the slaughtered bird on your lap. The duck’s head should hang down. At the bottom, put the dishes prepared in advance, where the plucked feathers will be folded;

    In order not to damage the skin, try to remove duck feathers carefully.If you damage the skin while plucking, it will begin to creep away and it will be difficult and inconvenient to continue plucking.

  2. Start plucking feathers from the chest, then remove from the back and shoulders. The wings and tail are the last to be cleared of feathers;
  3. This is not enough to completely pluck ducks at home. After removing large feathers, small hairs remain on the carcass. It is impossible to pluck them with one hand. It is better to do this with a knife:
    • Use the blunt side to attach it to the carcass;
    • Using your thumb, press the hairs against the knife and pull them out with a sharp movement.
  4. Next, roll the carcass in flour, rubbing it in a circular motion. So excess moisture is better absorbed;
  5. In order not to waste a lot of time plucking fluff and small hairs, singe the carcass. Do this carefully, making sure that the duck does not catch fire at all times.
    • Spread the carcass so that no wrinkles remain on the skin, unfold the wings to the sides;
    • As it is, bring it to the burner and scorch. Do this carefully, otherwise the fat under the skin will melt, the skin will be damaged and the duck will lose its presentation;
    • During this procedure, soot usually appears, which does not need to be afraid, as it will be washed off along with the flour.Singe the duck slowly.
  6. Rinse the carcass.

The wild duck is plucked in the same sequence.

Hot working or scalding

Let’s look at how to quickly pluck a duck using the scalding method and do it right. To use this method, at least four hours must elapse between slaughter and plucking.

  1. Heat the water in a saucepan to eighty degrees. Boiling water is not suitable, as scalding with boiling water can lead to the fact that the skin on the carcass will burst and it will not be easy to remove feathers;
  2. Dip the duck in the pan, letting it sit for a minute;
  3. Start plucking.It will be faster and more convenient if the feathers are pulled out in the opposite direction from their growth;
  4. First pull the feathers out of the wings and then from the tail. Then proceed to remove the fluff from the neck and chest. Down from the back and legs is plucked out last;
  5. When all feathers are removed, burn the carcass.

There is one drawback to this method of cleaning the duck from feathers: after scalding, the duck meat turns red. But there is also a plus, this method is convenient when there is no way to pluck a bird immediately after slaughter.

Subtleties and nuances of fast plucking

In order to choose some method of plucking, you can try everything and stop at the one that seems most suitable and convenient. When using the hot plucking method, be aware that the color of the meat may change. Heating, like any heat treatment, affects the meat and after the hot plucking method, it is better not to store the bird, but to cook it right away. If the carcass will be stored in the refrigerator for a while, a dry method for removing feathers is suitable.

In order not to burn your hands and not damage the skin on the duck, after using the hot method, you do not need to immediately start plucking feathers. Let the carcass cool slightly.

In the singling process, only fine hairs and down are fired.

Rules for butchering duck

Let’s look at how to properly cut a duck. For cutting wild duck, as for domestic duck, the same sequence of actions is applied:

  1. Cut off the neck. At the same time, cut the skin, leaving a part in front so that it can cover the cut point if the duck is cooked stuffed;
  2. Find where the heel joint is on the legs and cut the legs two centimeters higher;
  3. Remove the wings at the first joint;
  4. Cut open the belly and remove the offal.Giblets include the heart, stomach, liver, and lungs. Abdominal fat also needs to be removed. Pull the esophagus and goiter through the hole in the neck and cut off;
  5. After removing the giblets, rinse the carcass under cold running water and in the most thorough way. It is not worth rinsing for a long time. The longer it is kept in water, the more it will lose nutrients;
  6. After rinsing, place the carcass on a baking sheet and let dry. If it is not supposed to be cooked right away, the carcass can be frozen;
  7. In order to prepare a dish, you must continue cutting the duck carcass;
  8. Duck dish sometimes contains small bones after cooking.To avoid this, keep the tubular bones intact; you do not need to try to cut or sever them. It is better to make incisions in the joints:
    • First, remove the hams with a carving knife, while grabbing the meat closer to the back;
    • To remove the wings, make incisions near the vertebra;
    • To separate the loins, lay the duck on its back, make an incision along the keel and gradually cut the meat;
    • Use kitchen scissors to remove the ribs;
    • Before cutting off the tail, remove the sebaceous gland that can spoil the taste when cooking meat.

After removing all parts, the spine and oily skin will be left from the carcass. After finishing cutting, the skin and fat can be melted, and broth can be prepared from the spine. With proper cutting, you can use not only the meat parts, but also all the rest.

If this is the first time you are faced with the need to butcher a domestic or wild duck, it is advisable to take into account the recommendations given.