Bladder problems can range from a minor urinary tract infection to something more serious, like bladder cancer. Depending on the condition, a variety of treatments exist. Herbal teas may be helpful in promoting bladder health and relieving symptoms, although they may not be appropriate for everyone. If you want to use herbal teas for a bladder problem you are experiencing, consult your doctor before consuming any of the teas, to ensure they are safe for you to use.
Uva Ursi
Until the discovery of sulfa drugs for bladder infections, uva ursi was typically used as a remedy, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb has antibacterial and astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. It is still used to help treat urinary infections, although it is said to be most effective when symptoms first start to appear. To make uva ursi tea, put 3 g of dried leaves into 5 oz of water, and let it sit for 12 hours, instructs the University of Maryland. Then strain the mixture and drink it hot or cold, three to four times daily. Pregnant women and breast feeding women should not drink this tea, and since this herb may interact with medications, consult your doctor before consuming it.
Green Tea
Green tea has been widely touted for its health benefits and antioxidant properties. The University of Maryland explains that green tea contains large amounts of antioxidants called polyphenols, which are very powerful. Research has been done on the association between green tea consumption and a reduced risk of developing cancer, including bladder cancer. In a study published in 2010 by Y Sagara et al, in the journal "Cancer Epidemiology," mice who were given green tea polyphenol had less bladder cancer tumor invasion and growth, compared to mice who did not receive the green tea. More research needs to be done to establish more definitive associations between green tea and bladder cancer, but results look promising. Two to three cups of green tea daily is the standard recommended amount, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Ask your doctor whether it is safe for you to drink green tea if you are taking any other medications or supplements.
Echinacea
Typically thought of as an immunity-boosting herb, echinacea may also be used to treat bladder infections, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herbal tea can help reduce pain, alleviate inflammation, and provide antiviral, antioxidant effects. Tea can be made by using 1 to 2 g dried echinacea root or herb. Drink it three times a day, usually for 7 to 10 days, advises the University of Maryland. Pregnant women and those who are nursing should ask their doctor before consuming echinacea tea, and individuals with a daisy allergy should not use this herb.
Considerations
If you think you have any bladder problems or infections, it is best to see a doctor, and not self-treat. A clinical examination can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Using herbal teas in conjunction with the recommended treatment may be an option; talk with your health care provider about whether it is safe to do so.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Uva Ursi; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea; Dr. David Zieve; 2010
- PubMed.gov: "Cancer Epidemiology"; Green Tea Polyphenol Suppresses Tumor Invasion and Angiogenesis in N-butyl-(-4 hydroxybutyl) Nitrosamine -Induced Bladder Cancer; Y Sagara et al; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Echinacea; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2009
