MANAGING RECURRENT URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS WITH HERBAL THERAPY: A PILOT CASE STUDY

Mohd. Faizan*, Yusra Qureshi and Naseem Akhtar Khan

ABSTRACT

UTIs are a common health issue typically treated with antibiotics. However, the growing antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli, responsible for 75% of UTI cases, presents a major challenge. This increasing resistance highlights the need for alternative treatments, with herbal medicine emerging as a promising option. UTIs (Ṭa’diya Majra-i-Bawl) are managed using plant-based remedies known for their antiseptic (Da’fe Ufoonat), anti-inflammatory (Muhallilat), and diuretic (Mudirrat) properties. Polyherbal formulations combining these medicinal herbs are believed to be effective against Escherichia coli infections. This case study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of an Unani polyherbal formulation as a natural and effective UTI remedy. It was conducted on a patient with UTI symptoms, who was treated with a formulation containing 50% hydro-alcoholic extracts of Karonda (Carissa carandas), Khar-e-Khasak (Tribulus terrestris), Mako (Solanum nigrum), Beekh-e-Kasni (Cichorium intybus), Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), and Chirayata Shireen (Swertia chirata). The patient received two capsules of 500 mg and Qurs-e-Kafoor (two tablets) twice daily for 21 days. Post-treatment assessment showed significant improvement in symptoms and urine analysis, with no recurrence observed during follow-up. The Unani formulation proved highly effective for UTI treatment, was well tolerated, and caused no adverse effects.

Keywords: UTIs, ?a’diya Majra-i-Bawl, Qurs-e-Kafoor, Da’fe Ufoonat, Muhallilat, Unani polyherbal formulation.