Stress incontinence, the unintentional release of urine, is triggered by physical movements or activities--such as coughing, sneezing, laughing or heavy lifting--particularly when you have a full bladder. It's more common in women than in men, and can be caused by childbirth, medications, aging, excessive use of caffeine or alcohol, and urinary tract infections. Some people turn to herbal therapies to treat stress incontinence. Herbs can have side effects and interfere with prescription medications; never embark on an herbal regimen without first consulting your physician.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi--botanically known as Arctostaphylos uva ursi, and also called bearberry--has been used medicinally for centuries. Native Americans employed it for urinary tract infections. Herbalists prescribe it for stress incontinence and cystitis. According to University of Maryland Medical Center, the tannins in uva ursi have astringent effects, which may help tighten mucous membranes, reduce inflammation and fight infection. The usual dose of uva ursi is 3g dried leaves in 5 oz. water, steeped for 12 hours, then strained and taken hot or cold three times a day. Uva ursi can be toxic to the liver, and you should only use it under the supervision of your doctor. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have high blood pressure, don't take uva ursi at all.
Horsetail
Horsetail, botanically known as Equisetum arvense and also called bottlebrush, is one of the most commonly prescribed herbs for stress incontinence. According to Herbs 2000, the extremely high silicon content of horsetail allows it to restore urinary mucous membranes, strengthen connective tissues in the body and restore the functioning of the urinary system. Three cups of tea a day is the recommended dose; alternately, you can take 1 tsp. of the herbal juice or take horsetail in tincture form. Herbs 2000 advises taking between 2ml to 6ml a day. Don't take horsetail without first consulting your doctor, and make sure you are taking equisetum arvense and not equisetum palustre. The latter is toxic.
Agrimony
Agrimony, botanically known as Agrimonia eupatoria, is also called burr marigold and cocklebur. Its high tannin content is responsible for its astringent and tissue-toning effects. It also contains flavonoids and volatile oils. Herbs 2000 recommends using 1 tsp. to 2 tsp. of dried agrimony for each 8 oz. of boiling water, and letting the herb steep in the water for 15 minutes. Take the infusion three times a day. Agrimony can cause sensitivity to sunlight, and can lower your blood pressure. Don't take agrimony without first consulting your doctor, and don't use it at all if you are pregnant or nursing.
Chamomile
Herbalists often recommend the use of chamomile, or Chamomilla recutita, in a sitz bath to help treat stress incontinence by stimulating circulation in the urinary system. Www.digherbs.com advises using 3 quarts to 5 quarts of a chamomile and horsetail infusion in warm bathwater. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that you should not use chamomile if you are allergic to any plants in the daisy family, including ragweed, chrysanthemums and marigolds. Before using chamomile, get the OK from your doctor.
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