Bladder infections, also known as cystitis, cause inflammation of your bladder. Bladder infections are caused by bacteria and are more common in women than men, due to the position and length of the urethra in women. Herbal remedies, including goldenseal, have been used in treating bladder infection, although you should avoid ingesting herbs until you have discussed their health ramifications with your doctor.
Bladder Infection
Bladder infection, notes MayoClinic.com, usually is a painful and annoying health problem, although this condition may lead to serious health consequences if your bacterial infection migrates up your urinary tract to your kidneys. Possible risk factors for bladder infection include sexual activity, being pregnant, using certain types of birth control and changes in your immune system. Lower abdominal discomfort, burning during urination, increased urinary urgency and blood in your urine are all possible signs and symptoms of bladder infection.
Plant Information
Goldenseal, a plant indigenous to eastern North America but now cultivated in Oregon and Washington, is a perennial herb that possesses a hairy stem and bears green-white flowers. The plant's rhizome, or underground stem, and roots contain numerous medicinal ingredients -- including berberis alkaloids -- that are incorporated into herbal supplements. Other important constituents in goldenseal include phytosterins, resins and chlorogenic acid. Goldenseal, a member of the buttercup family of plants, has a bitter and astringent taste.
Plant Actions
Goldenseal is commonly used in treating bladder infections. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic doctor and herbal medicine expert Sharol Tilgner states that goldenseal is effective against several types of pathogens, including bacteria, yeast and protozoa. Goldenseal has traditionally been used in treating bladder infection, middle ear infection, vaginitis, conjunctivitis, colds, flu, sore throats, allergies, ulcers and uterine bleeding. You should avoid using this herbal remedy if you are pregnant.
Warning
If you develop the signs and symptoms of a bladder infection, do not delay in seeking treatment for your ailment. Visit your doctor to be properly diagnosed and treated. In most cases, bladder infections should be treated using a combination of conventional allopathic and complementary alternative treatments. Goldenseal, though often helpful and effective for this health purpose, may not be appropriate for everyone. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits associated with this herbal remedy.
References
- National Health Service: Cystitis
- MayoClinic.com: Cystitis
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
