Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, including as a remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs). In various folk medicine systems, watercress has been valued for its purported diuretic properties, meaning it was believed to help increase urine flow, thereby “flushing out” the urinary tract. This traditional use is supported by references in European and Middle Eastern herbal texts, where watercress was recommended for kidney and bladder health, including the alleviation of symptoms associated with UTIs, such as burning urination and frequent urge to urinate.

However, modern scientific validation for watercress as a treatment for UTIs is limited. Some phytochemical studies have shown that watercress contains glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, which can have mild antimicrobial properties in vitro. Nevertheless, there are no robust clinical trials directly evaluating watercress as a treatment for UTIs in humans. Any diuretic effect appears mild and not clearly linked to improved infection outcomes. Thus, while watercress’s use for UTIs is justified by tradition and historical precedent, the evidence does not rise above anecdotal or low-quality data. It is not considered a scientifically validated therapy for UTIs, and it should not replace standard medical treatments. Always consult a healthcare provider for UTI management.

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