Herbal Treatment for Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection that may cause irreversible tissue damage, including damage to female reproductive organs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that chlamydia is the most commonly reported bacteria-related sexually transmitted infection among Americans, accounting for more than 1.2 million sexually transmitted infections in 2008. Some herbal medicines may be helpful adjunct therapies in treating chlamydia. However, you should always discuss herbs and their risks and benefits with your doctor before using them.

Herbs may be a helpful adjunct therapy for chlamydia. (Image: Design Pics/Tomas del Amo/Design Pics/Getty Images)

Chlamydia

Chlamydia, a disease that is usually sexually transmitted, is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. The National Center for Biotechnology Information reports that chlamydia infection is the most common sexually transmitted disease among Americans. If you have multiple partners, you have a greater risk for developing this condition. Common signs and symptoms associated with chlamydia include a burning sensation during urination, rectal pain or discharge and discharge from your penis or vagina.

Useful Herbal Treatments

Herbal remedies may be helpful adjunct therapies in treating chlamydia, although few herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific testing to determine their efficacy for this condition. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch notes that the following herbs may help heal chlamydia: astragalus, echinacea, goldenseal, pau d'arco and red clover. Astragalus should not be used in the presence of a fever, while echinacea and goldenseal should not be used for prolonged periods.

Highlighted Botanical

Echinacea is an herbal remedy that may be used in combination with other, more conventional therapies in treating chlamydia. Echinacea, notes Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," is regarded as an immune system modulator and tonic, and it has historically been used as a blood and lymph cleanser. This herb may be particularly helpful in reducing your susceptibility to infections or conditions associated with a weak immune system.

Disclaimer

Chlamydia is a serious health problem that may lead to several health complications, including inflammation of the cervix in women and inflammation of the urethra, or urethritis, in men. If left untreated, chlamydia may cause infertility in some women. If you develop the characteristic symptoms of chlamydia, meet with your doctor to be properly diagnosed and to review all possible treatment options. Herbal remedies, though usually safe and helpful, may cause unwanted side effects in some individuals.