Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections, especially in women. They cause burning, urgency, and frequent urination — and for some, they keep coming back. While antibiotics are often necessary, many people are looking for natural, preventative options to support urinary health and reduce recurrence.
At our clinic, we combine acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and insights from Japanese Kampo medicine to support urinary tract balance and help prevent recurrent infections.
How TCM Understands UTIs
In TCM, UTIs are known as Lin syndrome (淋病) — a condition where “damp-heat” accumulates in the bladder, causing burning, urgency and pain.
Other contributing patterns can include:
Qi stagnation – stress or tension disrupting bladder flow
Qi or Yang deficiency – chronic weakness leading to frequent infections
Yin deficiency – dryness and irritation without infection
Treatment focuses on clearing heat, draining dampness, and strengthening the body’s natural defences, helping restore balance to the urinary system.
What the Research Says
Recent studies suggest promising results for integrative care:
Chinese herbal medicine has shown higher cure rates and lower recurrence compared to antibiotics alone in some studies.
Electroacupuncture and acupuncture may help reduce UTI recurrence by improving bladder function and regulating inflammation.
In Japan, Kampo medicine such as Choreito (Zhu Ling Tang) has been used alongside antibiotics and was shown to reduce overall antibiotic use and symptom duration in acute cystitis (Antibiotics, 2022).
While more high-quality research is needed, current evidence supports acupuncture and herbal medicine as safe, effective complementary approaches for managing and preventing recurrent UTIs.
Acupuncture & Herbal Treatment in Practice
Treatment plans are personalised but may include:
Acupuncture: points such as CV3, SP9, BL28, ST36, and KI3 to clear heat, support bladder function, and ease discomfort.
Chinese herbs: tailored formulas that clear damp-heat or strengthen the bladder and kidneys.
Kampo support: formulas like Choreito (Zhu Ling Tang) or Hachimijiogan (Ba Wei Di Huang Wan) may be used depending on the pattern.
Lifestyle guidance: hydration, post-urination hygiene, stress reduction, and pelvic floor support (often in collaboration with physiotherapy).
Many patients notice fewer UTI episodes, reduced discomfort, and better overall urinary balance after several weeks of care.
Safety and When to Seek Medical Care
UTIs can become serious if untreated. Always see your GP for diagnosis and antibiotics when needed, especially if you have fever, back pain, or blood in your urine.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine can be safely integrated alongside medical treatment to support recovery and help prevent recurrence.
In Summary
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer a natural, research-supported approach to urinary health. By addressing the root causes of imbalance and supporting the body’s defences, they can help reduce recurrence, improve comfort, and enhance wellbeing, naturally and holistically.