I see many patients with urinary tract infections that have repeated UTI’s . These are females with either bladder incompetency as they age or interstitial cystitis and men with prostate issues. Antibiotics are effective but many organisms become resistant to the antibiotics after repeated use. I rather prefer botanical for urinary tract issues. There are many herbal antibiotics.
The botanical, Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) is used primarily to treat urinary tract infections. It acts as an antiseptic and is most effective in an alkaline environment. Although capsules are effective, I prefer the tincture. I use 1 teaspoon two to three times a day during acute UTI's. After the symptoms subside I use D-mannose (active ingredient: cranberry). There are many active ingredients in this botanical. Some are ursolic acid (which acts like a diuretic), tannins, resins and phenolic acid.
The class of berberines can be used for urinary tract infections. These include Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Oregon grape root (Berberis aquifolium). Both are antibacterial and inhibit bacteria from adhering. The main constituent for both is berberine. I feel that Goldenseal is overused. Most individuals when they feel ill will go a local health food store and buy echinacea and goldenseal. I use more Oregon grape root in lung, sinus and mouth infections rather than for urinary tract infections. I prefer adding the Oregon grape tincture 1 dropperful to a cup of simmering ginger tea