Overactive bladder, also known as urge incontinence, is the unexpected and urgent need to urinate. The condition is caused by bladder spasms, or contractions, that may occur regardless of the volume of urine contained in your bladder. Bladder spasms have many possible causes. Numerous herbs and supplements have historically been used in treating overactive bladder, but these substances should only be used after you have discussed their risks and benefits with your physician.
About Overactive Bladder
MayoClinic.com reports that overactive bladder causes urinary urgency that may be difficult to suppress, and that this condition may also cause the involuntary leakage of urine. Possible causes of overactive bladder-related bladder spasms include bladder cancer, bladder infection and inflammation, obstruction of your bladder outlet, certain neurological diseases, spinal cord injuries, stroke and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Frequent urination, urine leakage and urinary urgency are among the most common symptoms associated with overactive bladder.
Herbs and Supplements
Many herbs and supplements have long been used in treating overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, although not all dietary supplements used in treating this condition may have been subjected to contemporary testing procedures. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch recommends free-form amino acids, calcium and magnesium, potassium, vitamins A and E and zinc to treat this condition. Helpful herbal supplements may include horsetail, buchu and arnica.
Horsetail
Naturalist and herbal medicine expert Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," reports that horsetail is particularly helpful in treating urinary incontinence caused by bladder irritation, although this herbal supplement may also help treat passive bleeding within your urinary tract and elsewhere throughout your body. The spring stems of the horsetail plant are used in dietary supplements.
Considerations
Overactive bladder and urinary incontinence may be bothersome and even embarrassing, in some cases. Herbal and nonherbal dietary supplements should always be cleared with your physician before using them, as some supplements may cause profound physiological changes in your body and unexpected side effects. For the most relevant supplement-related information, meet with a botanically trained health care provider or a health care professional specializing in clinical nutrition. Ask your doctor what herbs are appropriate for you and your condition.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Urge Incontinence
- MayoClinic.com: Overactive Bladder
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
