If you have an overactive bladder, you know how embarrassing and stressful it can be. The sudden urges to urinate may catch you off guard. Herbs may help control an overactive bladder, but a physician should be notified and issues discussed before attempting to remedy the problem on your own. According to MayoClinic.com, an overactive bladder may be caused by serious problems. A doctor can evaluate whether herbal supplements may help you or if medicines or surgery are needed.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort is an herbal supplement most commonly used to battle symptoms of depression, but the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that it can help urinary incontinence when taken in the correct dose. The recommend dose is 300 mg, two to three times a day. Caution should be exercised if the supplement is used with prescription drugs. As with any herb used for bladder control issues, check with a pharmacist or your doctor to be sure it will not affect any other drugs you may be taking.
Pumpkin Seed Extract
A water-soluble pumpkin seed extract is being used to help overactive bladder problems. In fact, in a November 2008 report by William Faloon, published in Life Extension Magazine, this extract is heralded as a breakthrough that lowers daytime urination by 39 percent and nighttime urination by 68 percent.
Alpinia Oxyphylla
Alpinia oxyphylla is a natural herb that is closely related to ginger, according to the Natural Bladder website. It is used as an herbal solution for controlling the bladder and easing the urge to urinate. It is usually mixed with other products to make formulas, and the website claims that the use of these formulas has been beneficial for the treatment of overactive bladder. Talk to a doctor before buying a product with Alpinia oxyphylla, and be sure to discuss medicines you are already taking.
Buchu
Buchu is a plant that has been developed into herbal supplements. It is thought that the active constituent is diosphenol. Diosphenol has diuretic and antiseptic healing properties to the urinary system, according to Herbs2000.com. This natural bladder-control herb is usually stewed as a tea and consumed three times a day. Consult a physician before using buchu supplements.
