Inflammation of the bladder is also known as cystitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, this is usually caused by a bacterial infection and may be called a urinary tract or bladder infection. It may also be caused by certain medications, radiation therapy or catheter use. While antibiotics are typically used to treat cystitis, herbal remedies may also be effective for some people. Prior to using herbal remedies, consult your provider about consuming them, as they may interact with certain medications.
Step 1
Consume marshmallow root tea, capsules or tablets. According to the Interstitial Cystitis Network, marshmallow root tea helps provide a coating on the bladder that soothes it. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and provides relief from irritation. This herb can interfere with the absorption of other drugs, so consult your health care provider before consuming it in any form.
Step 2
Soak uva ursi leaves in water for five hours and drink the tea hot or cold three to four times a day, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb may also be taken in capsule form. Uva ursi is an herb that has been used since the second century for urinary infections by Native Americans, but it can be toxic and cause liver damage, so check with your physician before using this herb.
Step 3
Consume motherwort extract or capsules. According to the Interstitial Cystitis Network, motherwort has anti-bacterial effects, which can help fight bacteria in the urinary tract.
Step 4
Drink pipsissawa tea using leaves or the tincture of the herb. This herb contains quinine, which acts as a urinary antiseptic, says the Interstitial Cystitis Network. It also has antimicrobial characteristics. It should not be used long-term and may interfere with oral contraceptive effectiveness.
Tips and Warnings
- If you do not like drinking tea, check your local health food stores for these herbs in a capsule form.
- Herbal remedies do not have to be evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for safety. Prior to using any herbal teas or supplements for cystitis, tell your doctor about any medications you are taking and what herbs you want to consume, to see if there are any potential adverse effects. Herbal remedies may not be safe for everyone.
