Weak bladder, also known as urinary incontinence, usually involves the involuntary and unintentional passing of urine. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that weak bladder is a common global health problem, affecting over 50 million people in the developed world alone. Your weak bladder may respond to certain herbal remedies, although it is always wise to exercise caution when using herbs. Talk with your family doctor about the health ramifications of using herbs.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence may be caused by numerous factors, notes MerckManuals.com. Possible causes of this annoying and potentially embarrassing condition include bladder infection, the use of certain prescription drugs, brain and spinal cord damage, enlarged prostate gland in men, and diseases that target the nerves that carry information to and from your bladder. There is also a type of urinary incontinence known as stress incontinence, in which coughing, sneezing or other factors that include intra-abdominal pressure cause the release of small amounts of urine.
Useful Herbal Remedies
In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," herbalist and naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner states that several herbs may be particularly beneficial in treating your weak bladder. Fresh corn silk, St. John's wort and partridge berry may help in treating this condition. Other herbs, including lady's mantle, witch hazel and gotu kola may also be helpful in reducing pelvic inflammation and increasing the tone of structures throughout your urinary tract, including your bladder. Herbs that may help treat urinary tract infections include uva ursi, echinacea, buchu and usnea.
A Commonly Used Remedy
Lady's mantle, also known as bloodwort, may be a commonly used herbal remedy in treating your weak bladder. Nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," notes that lady's mantle possesses anti-inflammatory, diuretic and antiviral action and has historically been used in treating many health problems, including excessive bleeding, menstrual cramps and muscle spasms. The entire plant, except the root, may be used in herbal preparations, notes Balch.
Considerations
Urinary incontinence may significantly affect your activities of daily living, including work, recreation and aspects of your personal life. If you suffer from urinary incontinence, schedule an appointment with your family physician to discuss treatment options, including herbs. Although herbs have historically been used in treating this condition, few herbs have yet to be thoroughly evaluated by contemporary medical science. Herbs should be used with caution and under the care of a skilled health care practitioner.
References
- National Health Service: Incontinence, Urinary
- MerckManuals.com: Introduction
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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