
A guide to using herbal remedies for Bladder Control
Most people think of the bladder as simply a “holding tank” for urine. However, the bladder is much more than that. The bladder is a muscular sac that stores urine until it is ready to be released. When the bladder muscle contracts, urine is forced out of the body through the urethra. There are many things that can go wrong with bladder function. One common problem is overactive bladder (OAB), which affects millions of people worldwide. OAB is a condition in which the muscles of the bladder contract too often, causing frequent urination and/or urinary incontinence (leakage). While there are medications available to treat OAB, some people prefer to use herbal remedies instead. Here are some of the most popular herbs used for OAB and other bladder problems.
Herbs for Bladder Control
- Dandelion Root
Dandelion root is a diuretic, which means it helps increase urine production. This herb has been used for centuries to treat urinary problems like OAB, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney stones. You can take dandelion root in capsules or tinctures, or you can add it to your diet by using it in cooking or as a salad topping
- Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root is another herb that has been traditionally used to treat UTIs and kidney stones. Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a type of carbohydrate that forms a gel when mixed with water. This gel can help soothe inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract.Marshmallow root is available in capsules, tinctures, and powders. It can also be brewed into tea
- Uva Ursi
Uva ursi, also called bearberry, is an evergreen shrub that grows in cold climates like Europe, Asia, and North America. The leaves and berries of this plant have been used for centuries to treat UTIs. Uva ursi contains arbutin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the urinary tract.Uva ursi is usually taken in capsule form but can also be found in teas and tinctures
- Oregon Grape Root
Oregon grape root is a type of berberine, a compound that has antibacterial properties. Oregon grape root also contains alkaloids, which can help soothe inflammation in the digestive system.This herb is traditionally used to treat UTIs, although there is limited scientific evidence to support its efficacy. Oregon grape root is available in capsules, tablets, tinctures, and extracts. It can also be brewed into tea.
- Buchu
Buchu is an herb native to South Africa that has been used to treat UTIs for centuries . Buchu leaves contain chemicals like quercetin and rutin , which have anti-inflammatory effects . This herb is usually taken in capsule or tincture form , but buchu tea bags are also available
These are just a few of the many herbs that have traditionally been used to treat urinary problems like overactive bladder , urinary tract infections , and kidney stones . While there is limited scientific evidence to support their efficacy , many people find relief from these herbs . Always speak with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal remedies , especially if you are pregnant or breast-feeding , or if you have any other health conditions