Can eating dried mulberries treat urinary tract infections in women?

Women cannot directly treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) by consuming dried mulberries; however, they may help alleviate mild urinary discomfort caused by damp-heat. Acute or complicated UTIs require timely medical attention and prescribed medication. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a doctor in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:

If a UTI is caused by mild downward movement of damp-heat, dried mulberries—which are slightly cold in nature and contain anthocyanins and vitamin C—may be consumed in small amounts short-term to assist with clearing heat and promoting urination. Their antioxidant components may help reduce inflammation of the bladder mucosa. Combined with drinking plenty of water or herbal remedies, this may relieve symptoms such as frequent and urgent urination, although it cannot replace antibacterial treatment.

UTIs are mostly caused by pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli. Dried mulberries have no antibacterial properties, and delaying antibiotic treatment may lead to the infection ascending to the kidneys and causing pyelonephritis. Patients with comorbidities such as diabetes, urinary stones, or structural abnormalities in the urinary system who rely solely on dried mulberries may experience delayed treatment, increasing the risk of chronic persistence. Individuals with deficiency-cold in the spleen and stomach may experience diarrhea after consuming dried mulberries, which could further weaken immunity. Diabetic patients should also be cautious of the sugar content in dried mulberries, which may elevate blood glucose levels.

It is recommended that female UTI patients follow medical advice and use medications such as cefuroxime axetil granules, ceftazidime for injection, and moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets for treatment.