Urinary health is dependent on the proper functioning of numerous organs, tissues and glands. Kidneys filter fluid that becomes urine, which is eventually stored in the bladder. When the bladder becomes full, valves open to allow the urine to travel down the urethra and out the body. Glands, such as the male prostate, can disrupt urine flow. The opening of the urethra is susceptible to infection, or UTIs, which can spread to other parts of the genitourinary system. Some herbs combat UTIs, reduce enlarged prostates and heal inflamed tissues. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplement.
Cranberry
Cranberry or its juice is a common herbal remedy to combat or prevent UTIs. According to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," cranberry is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can act to reduce free radical damage in the sensitive tissues of the genitourinary system, but it also prevents the adhesion of E. coli bacteria to the bladder and urethra. E. coli is a common cause of infections. Although cranberries are usually sour and acidic, they have an alkalizing effect on the body, which inhibits the growth of most pathogenic microorganisms. If the juice is consumed, unsweetened varieties are recommended.
Goldenseal Root
Goldenseal root was traditionally used by Native Americans to clean wounds, treat inflammation and heal various skin afflictions, although its antibiotic and antiviral properties are being better appreciated, as cited in "Medical Herbalism." Goldenseal root can be consumed as a tea, tincture or capsule to promote urinary health. Additionally, goldenseal can be applied externally to genital warts, or used as part of a douche to help with bacterial and fungal infections of the vagina, which can spread to the urethra and bladder. Consult with your doctor if you see any evidence of a genital infection.
Chaparral Leaf
Chaparral leaf is a traditional herbal remedy used by native peoples of the southwest United States to combat viral diseases, including sexually transmitted ones that can affect urinary health. According to "Nutritional Sciences," modern use of chaparral leaf extract has proven to have strong antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties. Consult with your doctor before taking chaparral leaf to treat any condition.
Saw Palmetto Berry
Saw palmetto extract, derived from berries of small palm trees native to the southeastern United States, is a traditional remedy used to reduce prostate enlargement. Benign prostate enlargement is common in American men 40 years and older. An enlarged prostate eventually puts pressure on the bladder and urethra, disrupting the flow of urine and causing many false urges. According to "Human Biochemistry and Disease," saw palmetto inhibits the synthesis of a steroidal hormone linked to benign prostate growth. Ask your doctor if saw palmetto berry would be beneficial for you.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; A. Fauci et al.; 2008
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Nutritional Sciences"; Michelle McGuire; 2007
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
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