Effective Alternative Treatment Approaches for Cystitis

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It can lead to symptoms such as frequent and painful urination, urgency, and discomfort in the pelvic region. While it’s more common in women, men can also develop cystitis.

Causes Of Cystitis

Cystitis is commonly caused by bacterial infection, often due to bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and reaching the bladder. The most common bacteria responsible for cystitis is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the digestive system. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing cystitis include:

1. Sexual activity:Intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, particularly in women.
2. Poor bathroom hygiene: Wiping from back to front after using the toilet can facilitate the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
3. Urinary catheter use:Catheters can introduce bacteria into the bladder, increasing the risk of infection.
4. Blockages in the urinary tract: Conditions such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can obstruct urine flow, leading to stagnant urine that increases the risk of infection.
5. Weakened immune system: Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system can make individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections, including cystitis.
6. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can alter the urinary tract environment and increase the risk of cystitis.
7. Certain medications:Some medications, such as certain types of chemotherapy drugs, can increase the risk of cystitis by suppressing the immune system or causing irritation to the bladder lining.
8. Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk of urinary tract infections, including cystitis, due to elevated blood sugar levels that can promote bacterial growth.
9. Age:Older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, may be more prone to cystitis due to changes in the urinary tract lining and immune function.
10. Structural abnormalities: Congenital abnormalities in the urinary tract, such as vesicoureteral reflux, can increase the risk of cystitis.

Signs And Symptoms Of Cystitis

The signs and symptoms of cystitis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual factors.

Early Signs and Symptoms

1. Frequent urination:You may feel the need to urinate more often than usual, and the urge to urinate may be sudden and intense.
2. Pain or burning sensation during urination:Discomfort or a burning sensation when urinating is a common early symptom of cystitis.
3. Urgency: You may feel a strong and sudden urge to urinate, even if your bladder is not full.
4. Cloudy or strong-smelling urine:Urine may appear cloudy, foul-smelling, or have a stronger odor than usual.
5. Lower abdominal discomfort:Mild pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen may occur, often described as a dull ache.
6. Hematuria: Blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or brownish in color, can be a sign of cystitis.

Late Signs and Symptoms

1. Pelvic pain: As the infection progresses, you may experience more severe pain or pressure in the pelvic area.
2. Fever and chills: In some cases, cystitis can lead to systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and general malaise.
3. Nausea and vomiting:Severe cases of cystitis may cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
4. Back pain:Pain in the lower back, particularly on one side, may indicate that the infection has spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis).
5. Fatigue:Persistent fatigue and weakness may develop as the body fights off the infection.
6. Confusion (especially in older adults):In older adults, cystitis symptoms may be less pronounced, and confusion or changes in mental status may be the primary indicators of infection.

It’s important to note that not everyone with cystitis will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely from person to person. If you experience symptoms of cystitis, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and treatment. Untreated cystitis can lead to complications, such as kidney infection or recurrent urinary tract infections.

Conventional Treatment Of Cystitis

Conventional treatment for cystitis typically involves a combination of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection and supportive measures to alleviate symptoms.

1. Antibiotics: The primary treatment for bacterial cystitis is a course of antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment depend on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the presence of complicating factors, and the results of urine culture and sensitivity testing.. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.
2. Pain relief medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation associated with cystitis.
3. Increased fluid intake: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and dilute urine, reducing irritation and discomfort during urination. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and acidic beverages that may irritate the bladder.
4. Urinary tract analgesics: In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe urinary tract analgesics such as phenazopyridine (Pyridium) to relieve pain, burning, and urgency associated with cystitis. These medications work by numbing the bladder and urinary tract lining and should only be used for short-term relief of symptoms under medical supervision.
5. Voiding techniques:Your healthcare provider may recommend specific voiding techniques to help relieve symptoms and promote bladder emptying. For example, urinating in a sitting position rather than standing and gently leaning forward while voiding can help empty the bladder more completely and reduce the risk of residual urine that can contribute to infection.
6. Follow-up evaluation: After completing a course of antibiotics, your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up urine testing to ensure that the infection has cleared completely. If symptoms persist or recur, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out underlying causes or complications of cystitis.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of cystitis. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment can lead to ineffective treatment, complications, and the development of antibiotic resistance. If you experience symptoms of cystitis, seek prompt medical attention for evaluation and management.

Herbal Treatments For Cystitis

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

• Symptom:Painful urination, inflammation.
• Benefit: Dandelion acts as a diuretic, promoting increased urine production, which helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with cystitis.

Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

• Symptom:Urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms, such as frequent urination, urgency, and burning sensation.
• Benefit:Uva Ursi contains arbutin and hydroquinone, compounds with antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacterial infections in the urinary tract, including cystitis.

2. Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon):
   • Symptom: Recurrent urinary tract infections, including cystitis.
   • Benefit:Cranberry contains proanthocyanidins, which may prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of infection. It also has antioxidant properties that support urinary tract health.
3. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis):
   • Symptom:Bacterial cystitis, urinary tract infections.
   • Benefit: Goldenseal contains berberine, a compound with antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacterial infections, including those that cause cystitis.
4. Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)
   • Symptom:Urinary tract irritation, inflammation.
   • Benefit: Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a soothing gel-like substance that coats the urinary tract lining, reducing irritation and inflammation associated with cystitis.
5. Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
   • Symptom: Difficulty urinating, urinary tract infections.
   • Benefit:Horsetail is a natural diuretic that can increase urine flow, helping to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. It also contains antioxidants that support urinary tract health.
6. Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis)
   • Symptom:Urinary tract infections, frequent urination.
   • Benefit:Juniper berries have diuretic and antimicrobial properties that can increase urine production and help fight bacterial infections in the urinary tract.
7. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
   • Symptom:Inflammation, pain.
   • Benefit: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with cystitis. It can also help fight bacterial infections in the urinary tract.

These herbal remedies can be used as complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments for cystitis. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Homeopathic Treatment For Cystitis

1. Cantharis
   • Symptom:Intense burning or cutting pain before, during, and after urination; constant urge to urinate with only a few drops passing at a time.
   • Benefit:Cantharis is often used for cystitis with severe burning pain and inflammation of the bladder lining. It can help alleviate the burning sensation and reduce inflammation.
2. Apis mellifica
   • Symptom:Stinging or burning pain during urination; sensation of swelling and heat in the urinary tract.
   • Benefit: Apis mellifica is beneficial for cystitis with intense stinging pain and inflammation, especially when there is a sensation of heat and swelling in the urinary tract.
3. Sarsaparilla
   • Symptom:Painful, burning sensation at the end of urination; frequent urge to urinate with little urine passed; pain extending from the bladder to the urethra.
   • Benefit: Sarsaparilla is often used for cystitis with severe pain at the end of urination and inflammation of the bladder and urethra. It can help relieve pain and discomfort during urination.
4. Berberis vulgaris
   • Symptom:Cutting or tearing pain in the bladder region, extending to the urethra; pain radiating to the back; frequent urge to urinate with scanty urine.
   • Benefit:Berberis vulgaris is indicated for cystitis with sharp, shooting pains in the bladder and urethra, especially when the pain radiates to the back. It can help reduce pain and inflammation in the urinary tract.
5. Staphysagria
   • Symptom:Cystitis triggered by emotional stress or suppressed anger; frequent urination with burning pain; feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
   • Benefit: Staphysagria is used for cystitis associated with emotional stress or suppressed emotions, especially when there is burning pain during urination and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
6. Pulsatilla
   • Symptom: Cystitis with mild, shifting pains; burning or stinging pain relieved by cold applications; frequent urination at night.
   • Benefit: Pulsatilla is indicated for cystitis with mild, shifting pains that change location, especially when the pain is relieved by cold applications and there is frequent urination at night.
7. Nux vomica
   • Symptom:Cystitis triggered by overindulgence in food, alcohol, or stimulants; burning pain before and after urination; constant urge to urinate with little urine passed.
   • Benefit: Nux vomica is used for cystitis associated with overindulgence and irritability, especially when there is burning pain before and after urination and a constant urge to urinate.

These homeopathic remedies can be effective in treating cystitis when selected based on individual symptoms and characteristics. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified homeopathic practitioner for proper evaluation and personalized treatment. Homeopathic remedies should be used under professional guidance and supervision.

Acupuncture Treatment  For Cystitis 

Acupuncture can be a complementary therapy for managing cystitis, and specific acupuncture points may be targeted to alleviate symptoms and promote overall urinary tract health.

1. CV3 (Zhongji)
   • Location:Located on the midline of the lower abdomen, about 4 finger widths below the navel.
   • Symptoms:Frequent urination, urgency, burning or painful urination.
   • Benefits: Stimulating CV3 can help regulate bladder function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of cystitis.
2. CV4 (Guanyuan)
   • Location: Located on the midline of the lower abdomen, about 3 finger widths below the navel.
   • Symptoms: Bladder discomfort, urinary urgency and frequency, pelvic pain.
   • Benefits: CV4 is believed to tonify the kidneys and regulate urinary function, helping to relieve symptoms of cystitis and promote bladder health.
3. BL22 (Sanjiaoshu)
   • Location: Located on the lower back, about 1.5 finger widths lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra.
   • Symptoms: Lower back pain, urinary discomfort, bladder inflammation.
   • Benefits: Stimulating BL22 can help strengthen the kidneys, promote circulation to the bladder, and alleviate lower back pain associated with cystitis.
4. SP6 (Sanyinjiao)
   • Location: Located on the inside of the lower leg, about 4 finger widths above the medial malleolus, in the depression between the tibia and fibula.
   • Symptoms:Urinary urgency, frequent urination, pelvic discomfort.
   • Benefits:SP6 is a commonly used acupuncture point for regulating urinary function, reducing inflammation, and relieving symptoms of cystitis.
5. LI4 (Hegu)
   • Location:Located on the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.
   • Symptoms:Painful urination, bladder spasms, general discomfort.
   • Benefits:LI4 is a powerful acupuncture point for relieving pain and promoting circulation. Stimulating LI4 can help alleviate symptoms of cystitis and promote overall well-being.
6. KD3 (Taixi)
   • Location:Located on the inside of the ankle, in the depression between the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon.
   • Symptoms: Urinary urgency, frequent urination, lower abdominal discomfort.
   • Benefits: KD3 is a key acupuncture point for tonifying kidney function, regulating bladder function, and alleviating symptoms of cystitis.

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi (energy) and promote balance within the body’s systems.

Yoga and Cystitis

1. Child’s Pose (Balasana)
   • Kneel on the mat with your big toes touching and knees slightly apart.
   • Sit back on your heels and extend your arms forward, lowering your torso towards the mat.
   • Rest your forehead on the mat and breathe deeply, stretching the spine and hips.
   • Child’s pose can help relax the pelvic muscles and relieve tension in the lower abdomen.
2. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
   • Start on your hands and knees with wrists aligned under shoulders and knees under hips.
   • Inhale, arch your back, and lift your tailbone and chest towards the ceiling (Cow Pose).
   • Exhale, round your spine, tuck your chin to your chest, and draw your belly button towards your spine (Cat Pose).
   • Repeat this flowing movement, syncing breath with movement to gently massage and stretch the abdomen and pelvic area.
3. Reclining Bound Angle Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)
   • Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the mat.
   • Allow your knees to fall out to the sides, bringing the soles of your feet together.
   • Support your knees with yoga blocks or pillows if needed to prevent strain.
   • Relax your arms by your sides with palms facing up and close your eyes, focusing on deep belly breathing.
   • Reclining Bound Angle Pose can help open the hips, release tension in the pelvic floor, and promote relaxation.
4. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
   • Sit on the mat with legs extended straight in front of you.
   • Inhale, lengthen your spine, and lift your arms overhead.
   • Exhale, hinge at the hips, and fold forward over your legs, reaching for your feet or ankles.
   • Keep your spine long and engage your core as you fold forward.
   • Seated Forward Bend stretches the hamstrings, lower back, and pelvic muscles, helping to relieve tension and discomfort in the pelvic area.
5. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
   • Lie on your back with knees bent and feet hip-width apart, arms by your sides.
   • Inhale, press into your feet, and lift your hips towards the ceiling, engaging your glutes and core.
   • Hold the pose for a few breaths, focusing on opening the chest and lifting the pelvis.
   • Exhale, slowly lower your hips back down to the mat.
   • Bridge Pose strengthens the pelvic floor muscles and stretches the spine, providing relief from discomfort associated with cystitis.

Practice these yoga poses mindfully and gently, listening to your body and avoiding any movements that cause pain or discomfort. If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise routine.

Dietary Supplements For Cystitis

1. Fruits
   • Cranberries:Cranberry supplements or unsweetened cranberry juice may help prevent urinary tract infections, including cystitis, by inhibiting bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls.
   • Blueberries:Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and may have similar anti-adhesive properties to cranberries, helping to support urinary tract health.
   • Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and support overall urinary tract health.
2. Vegetables
   • Leafy greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in vitamins and minerals that support immune function and overall health, which can help prevent urinary tract infections.
   • Garlic: Garlic contains compounds with antimicrobial properties that may help fight bacterial infections in the urinary tract, reducing the risk of cystitis.
   • Sweet potatoes:Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, which can help support the mucous membranes of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of inflammation and infection.
3. Seeds
   • Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which plays a role in immune function and may help prevent urinary tract infections.
   • Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help support urinary tract health.
4. Nuts
   • Almonds:Almonds are high in vitamin E, an antioxidant that can help support immune function and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
   • Walnuts: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.

Incorporating these dietary supplements into your daily diet can help support urinary tract health and reduce the risk of cystitis. 

Physical Medicine For Cystitis

Physical medicine techniques can complement conventional treatments for cystitis and help alleviate symptoms

1. Heat therapy

Applying heat to the lower abdomen or pelvic area can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with cystitis. Use a heating pad or warm compress for 10-15 minutes at a time to relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the area.

2. Pelvic floor physical therapy

 Pelvic floor physical therapy involves exercises and techniques to strengthen and relax the muscles of the pelvic floor. These exercises can help improve bladder control, reduce urinary urgency and frequency, and alleviate pelvic pain associated with cystitis.

3. Bladder training

 Bladder training techniques involve gradually increasing the time between urinations to improve bladder control and reduce urinary urgency and frequency. This approach can help retrain the bladder to hold urine for longer periods and reduce the symptoms of cystitis.

4. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

 TENS therapy involves applying mild electrical currents to the skin over the lower abdomen or pelvic area. This can help block pain signals and reduce discomfort associated with cystitis.

5. Biofeedback

Biofeedback techniques involve using electronic devices to monitor and provide feedback on muscle activity in the pelvic floor. This can help individuals learn to control their pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder function.

6. Hydrotherapy

 Hydrotherapy techniques, such as sitz baths or warm water immersion, can help relax the pelvic muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cystitis.

7. Massage therapy

 Massage therapy techniques, such as gentle abdominal massage or myofascial release, can help reduce tension in the pelvic area, improve circulation, and promote relaxation, which may help alleviate symptoms of cystitis.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting any physical medicine techniques for cystitis, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant. A personalized treatment plan can be developed based on your individual needs and symptoms to optimize the effectiveness of physical medicine approaches for cystitis management.

Prevention 

1. Hygiene Practices
   • Proper hygiene, especially around the genital area, can help prevent the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract, reducing the risk of cystitis.
   • Tips for maintaining good hygiene include wiping from front to back after using the toilet, washing the genital area with mild soap and water regularly, and wearing cotton underwear to allow for better airflow and moisture absorption.
   • Avoiding irritants such as harsh soaps, scented feminine products, and tight-fitting clothing can also help prevent irritation and inflammation of the urinary tract.
2. Sitz Baths
   • A sitz bath involves sitting in warm water that covers the hips and buttocks, which can help soothe and cleanse the genital area.
   • Adding ingredients such as Epsom salts or baking soda to the sitz bath water can provide additional relief by reducing inflammation and discomfort.
   • Sitz baths can promote relaxation of the pelvic muscles, improve blood flow to the pelvic area, and help reduce pain and inflammation associated with cystitis.
   • It’s recommended to take sitz baths for about 10-15 minutes several times a day, especially during acute episodes of cystitis or after intercourse to help prevent urinary tract infections.

Lifestyle Remedies For Cystitis

1. Reduce stress

Find ways to cut down stress because stress can trigger inflammation. With this in mind, you want to practice relaxation techniques to de-stress because it’s known to lower the recurrence of cystitis. An Epsom salt bath can be another great way to relax pelvic floor muscles and reduce pain.

2. Cooling Diet

Pitta Diet and LifestyleAyurveda recommends choosing a diet to lower heat in the urinary tract. Accordingly, cooling food is called a pitta pacifying diet. Avoid sugar, alcohol, refined carbohydrates (white bread and pasta), and full-strength fruit juices. Also, you want to eat generous amounts of garlic and onions.

3. Drink water

natural remedies for cystitisAcute cystitis can happen from lack of adequate fluid intake. So then, Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. For example, aim to drink at least 64 oz of pure water or unsweetened liquid daily to flush out the bugs.

4. Stopping smoking

5. Maintain intimate hygiene

• Shower daily to keep vulva area clean. As a rule:
• Wipe from front to back after a bowel movement
• Avoid wearing nylon pantyhose or tight clothing (like tight skinny jeans) for long hours. (tight clothing can be a breeding ground for bacteria).
• Aim to wear loose, cotton underwear
• Stop using douches, soaps or deodorants in the vaginal area as it depletes the natural pH levels.
• Empty your bladder and clean the vaginal area after sexual intercourse

6. Hot and Cold Therapy

natural remedies for cystitisExperiment with a heating pad and cold pack to see what works best for you. Often a combination of both is most effective

• Heat can help to soothe the spasms and aches. The easiest thing is to use just a simple heating pad or hot water bottle.

• natural remedies for cystitis But since cystitis is a heated condition, an ice pack placed directly on the perineum can bring instant relief. Cold also helps to reduce inflammation

Do not leave either hot or cold on too long. It’s best to alternate every 20 minutes or so.

Home Remedies For Cystitis

1. Manage Stress:Reducing stress is crucial as it can trigger inflammation. Practice relaxation techniques to de-stress, such as deep breathing or meditation. Additionally, an Epsom salt bath can relax pelvic floor muscles and alleviate pain.
2. Follow a Cooling Diet: Adopt a pitta pacifying diet, focusing on cooling foods to lower heat in the urinary tract. Avoid sugar, alcohol, refined carbohydrates, and opt for cooling foods like garlic and onions.
3. Stay Hydrated:Adequate fluid intake is essential to flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Aim to drink at least 64 ounces of pure water or unsweetened liquids daily to help prevent cystitis.
4. Quit Smoking:Smoking irritates the bladder, leading to inflammation and infection. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of cystitis and promote overall urinary tract health.
5. Maintain Intimate Hygiene:Practice good hygiene habits, such as wiping from front to back, wearing loose cotton underwear, and showering daily. Avoid tight clothing and refrain from using douches or harsh soaps in the vaginal area.
6. Use Hot and Cold Therapy: Experiment with alternating hot and cold therapy to relieve symptoms. Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to soothe spasms, and use an ice pack to reduce inflammation in the perineal area.

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Home & Herbal Remedies for Cystitis

1. UriCare:This Ayurvedic herbal formulation improves urine flow and bladder muscle function. It contains Indian Madder, known for promoting normal bladder muscle contraction and relaxation.
2. Baking Soda:Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in water for quick relief from cystitis symptoms.
3. Licorice Root:Licorice coats the bladder wall, protecting dry bladder membranes and easing painful urination. It can be taken in capsule form or as a tea.
4. Mannose Powder:Taking 1/2 teaspoon of mannose powder in water every 1-2 hours can improve urinary infections.
5. Cranberry Juice:Drink 16 ounces of unsweetened cranberry or blueberry juice daily to prevent bacteria from binding to cells and reduce the risk of cystitis recurrence.
6. Yogurt:Eating yogurt with acidophilus helps cure and prevent bladder infections by promoting healthy bacteria.
7. Spinach Drink: Blend spinach juice and coconut water to ease burning and itching sensations caused by cystitis.
8. Cornsilk: A natural diuretic, cornsilk eases bladder inflammation and infection, making it safe for children with cystitis.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar:Mix 1 tablespoon of raw, unflavored apple cider vinegar in 3/4 cup of water and drink three times daily to prevent bacterial growth.
10. Cucumber and Lemon Drink: Blend cucumber with lemon juice and yogurt to cool the bladder and inhibit bacterial growth, consuming twice daily.

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These lifestyle changes and herbal remedies can be effective in managing cystitis symptoms and preventing recurrence. However, consult a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments, especially if you have underlying health conditions.