You've probably heard of echinacea as an herbal remedy to make your cold go away more quickly, but some herbalists recommend it more generally to treat other bodily infections, including bladder infections. Supplements containing echinacea can be made from the plant and can include the flower, root and leaves. If you want to use echinacea to treat a bladder infection, first consult your doctor. A serious bladder infection is likely to require antibiotics, not just an herbal treatment.
The Medical Evidence
Echinacea most commonly gets used as a remedy for the common cold, but some practitioners of herbal medicine also recommend it more generally to fight infections and boost the function of the immune system. Although studies have shown it can reduce the duration of a cold, no specific studies to date demonstrate its usefulness in treating bladder infections or infections such as the flu, MedlinePlus reports. If you want to try echinacea to treat a bladder infection, first consult your doctor.
Safe Dosing
Echinacea supplements come in many forms, and the dosage varies based on the type you use. If you use dried echinacea, the recommended dose is 1 g to 2 g when used in a tea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If your echinacea supplement is a tincture extract, use 2 mL to 3 mL per day, or try 300 mg of a standardized powder extract. For a stabilized fresh extract, use 0.75 mL per day; or, for a tincture, use 1 mL to 3 mL per day. Always follow label directions regarding dosage and speak with a medical professional so you understand how to use it safely.
Side Effects
Oral use of echinacea is generally considered safe and does not usually cause side effects. Some people experience a numb or tingling sensation on the tongue, however. Other known side effects include sore throat, dry mouth, joint and muscle aches, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, nausea, vomiting and fevers. Allergic reactions also are possible.
Safety Precautions
Because echinacea affects the immune system, you should not use it if you have autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, MedlinePlus advises. You should also avoid the herb if you take medications that suppress the immune system, such as those prescribed for people who have received an organ transplant. People who have tuberculosis, connective tissue disorders, HIV, AIDS, leukemia and diabetes also should not take echinacea because of potentially hazardous effects. The safety of echinacea has not been determined for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
