The strength, or tone, of your bladder is an important factor in maintaining your bladder control. Without sufficient bladder strength, you may develop a condition called urinary incontinence. The National Health System of the United Kingdom states that this condition is extremely common, affecting millions of people throughout the world. Certain herbs may help tone your bladder and treat your urinary incontinence. However, avoid using herbs until you have reviewed all relevant herb-related topics with your family physician.
Poor Bladder Control
Poor bladder strength, notes MedlinePlus, is responsible for most bladder control problems, although an overactive bladder may also cause bladder control issues. If you possess poor bladder strength, bladder accidents may be caused by sneezing, laughing or lifting heavy objects -- a condition known as stress incontinence. Nerve damage and prostate problems may also cause poor bladder control. Symptoms associated with poor bladder control range in severity from mild to severe. Although this condition is more common among older individuals, it can occur in anyone.
Useful Herbs
Several herbs may be useful in improving the strength of your bladder. However, few remedies that have historically been used in treating this health problem have been extensively studied using current scientific testing methods. According to Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," herbs that may possess the ability to tone your urinary tract structures include corn silk, gotu kola, lady's mantle, partridge berry and witch hazel.
A Commonly Used Botanical
Witch hazel -- a shrub or small tree -- is a commonly used botanical remedy to help improve the tone and integrity of your bladder. Tilgner notes that witch hazel possesses anti-inflammatory and astringent action, or the ability to reduce bladder inflammation and increase bladder tissue integrity and tone. According to naturopathic physician and expert herbalist William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," the twigs, leaves and bark of the witch hazel tree contain medicinal ingredients that are used in witch hazel supplements and preparations.
Warning
Although herbs have been used in treating loss of bladder control for many years, the use of these natural substances does not guarantee a change in your condition. In some cases, herbs may cause undesired side effects and lead to drug interactions with other prescription medications you might be taking. Herbal remedies should be used with the same level of caution applied to prescription drugs, as herbs can exert powerful effects within your body.
References
- National Health System: Incontinence, Urinary
- MedlinePlus: Urinary Incontinence
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
