Interstitial cystitis, also called IC, is more than a bladder infection. It is a chronic condition that can interfere with an individual's life and cause significant discomfort. Treatments are available, but some individuals may want to try treating IC with herbs. Before doing so, consult your health-care provider to ensure that these herbs are safe for you to take and will not interact with any medications you are taking.
Interstitial Cystitis
Symptoms of IC can be so different among individuals that some doctors think this condition is actually a cluster of diseases, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NKUDIC. It is thought that IC is a type of bladder infection that causes irritation to the bladder walls, although no bacteria has been associated with the condition. Individuals typically have pain or discomfort in the bladder and pelvic area, a feeling of needing to urinate frequently or a sudden urge to urinate. There is no cure for IC, but treatments like bladder distention, medications, electrical nerve stimulation and diet changes focus on alleviating symptoms.
Uva Ursi
According to the IC Network, uva ursi is a commonly used herbal supplement for IC. This herb is also called bearberry and has been used medicinally since the second century, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The herb acts as an antibacterial agent, and the tannins in the herb help reduce inflammation. Although more research needs to be done on the efficacy of this herb, uva ursi is often used to treat urinary tract infections and problems. Before using this herb, talk with your doctor to make sure it is safe for you to consume.
Marshmallow
The herb Althea officinalis is also known as marshmallow, but it is not the campfire snack. This herb can be used as a medicinal herb or consumed as food and has been used for more than 2,000 years by the Romans, Syrians, Chinese and Egyptians, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. The IC Network states that this herb can help relieve irritation, possesses anti-inflammatory properties and helps boost the immune system. This herb coats your stomach and interferes with absorption of nutrients, so take marshmallow a few hours before or after other medications or supplements if your doctor says this herb is safe for you to consume.
Pipsissawa
Pipsissawa is another possible remedy for IC symptoms. The main chemical compound in the herb is called quinine, which acts as a urinary antiseptic, according to the IC Network. It may also have antibacterial properties. It should not be used as a long-term remedy and may interact with birth-control pills because of estrogen-like effects the plant has. This is a less commonly used herb, so ask your doctor whether it is safe for you to consume before doing so.
References
- National Kidney and Urological Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome; December 2009
- Interstitial Cystitis Network; Patient Handbook; Herbal Supplements; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Uva Ursi; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; March 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Marshmallow; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2009
