Numerous herbal remedies may be helpful in treating your overactive bladder. According to MedlinePlus, overactive bladder, also known as urge incontinence, is the strong, immediate need to urinate due to bladder spasms, or contractions. Possible causes of overactive bladder include bladder inflammation and irritation, bladder stones or prostate problems in men. Before taking herbs to help treat your overactive bladder, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.
Horsetail
Horsetail, also known as Equisetum arvense, is a perennial, non-flowering weed that grows throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America. Horsetail, a relative of the fern, has a slightly sweet taste and cooling and drying tendencies. The above-ground parts of the plant are used medicinally to help treat numerous health problems, including overactive bladder. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that horsetail is a diuretic and astringent that increases connective tissue tone and helps prevent urinary incontinence. Meet with your doctor to discuss potential side effects, appropriate dosage and possible drug interactions before taking horsetail to help treat your overactive bladder and urinary incontinence.
Buchu
Buchu, a small, shrubby plant that contains volatile oils and mucilage, is a member of the rue family, has a sharp, bitter and spicy taste and smells like cat urine. Buchu, also known as Barosma betulina, possesses cooling and drying tendencies. The leaves of the plant are used for medicinal purposes and may be effective in treating your overactive bladder and urinary incontinence. According to Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of the book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," buchu is a mild urinary tract anti-inflammatory and antiseptic that has been used to treat incontinence associated with prostate problems. Tilgner notes that buchu soothes your pelvic nerves and helps treat irritable bladder. If your are pregnant, you should avoid taking this herb. Consult with your physician prior to taking buchu.
Lady's Mantle
Lady's mantle, also known as Alchemilla vulgaris, is a plant that favors northern climates or mountain ranges, such as the Himalayas. Lady's mantle, which belongs to the rose family, possesses a slightly bitter, astringent taste and drying tendencies. The budding herb of the plant is used to help treat conditions such as overactive bladder and urinary incontinence. Tilgner notes that lady's mantle is an astringent and reproductive tract tonic that is indicated for pelvic organs, including your bladder, that lack sufficient tone. Lady's mantle has also been used to help treat diarrhea, bleeding disorders, vaginal laxity and dysmenorrhea. Before taking this herb to help improve the health of your bladder and reduce your urinary incontinence, schedule an appointment with your doctor to see if lady's mantle is appropriate for your specific condition.
