Bed wetting, also called nocturnal enuresis, is a common problem in children under 6 years of age. According to FamilyDoctor.org, numerous factors may cause bed wetting in your child, including genetics, stress, hormonal factors, urinary tract infections, spinal cord abnormalities and a small bladder. Herbal remedies may be a helpful natural therapy in treating your child's bed wetting, but you should always be judicious when using herbs for this health purpose.
Bed-Wetting Information
Most cases of bed wetting involve a physical cause -- such as a small bladder -- and are not your child's fault, states the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Bed wetting is usually a medical problem, not a behavior problem, notes the organization. In some cases, bed wetting may be an indication of infection or other underlying health problems. Bladder training, moisture alarms, and natural and pharmaceutic medications are among the most common treatment methods for this health problem.
Helpful Herbs
Numerous herbs have historically been used in treating bed wetting in children. However, more extensive clinical research trials may be necessary to support the use of these herbs for this health problem. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," herbal medicine expert and naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner states that horsetail, oat, plantain, nettle, California poppy, corn silk and St. John's wort may support your child's urinary tract and help treat bed wetting in kids.
A Powerful Herb
St. John's wort is a powerful herb in the treatment of bedwetting. Tilgner notes that St. John's wort, a sedative herb, has traditionally been used in treating bed wetting in children, especially bed wetting associated with neurological issues or depression. Naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," recommends a dosage of 20 drops of the tincture twice daily in treating bed wetting. Always discuss dosage with your doctor before using this herb.
Considerations
Though most causes of bed wetting among children are benign, bed wetting may be associated with an underlying health problem that requires the help of a licensed health care provider. Nutritional supplements, though commonly used in treating bed wetting in children, should always be used with extreme caution. Some nutritional supplements may not be appropriate for your child, especially if she has certain allergies or other health problems. Always discuss possible side effects with your child's physician before using nutritional supplements to help stop bed wetting.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Enuresis (Bed Wetting)
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I Need to Know About my Child's Bed Wetting
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
