Bladder infections are common, yet painful infections that you want to eliminate quickly from your body. The most common form of treatment for a bladder infection is a course of antibiotics. Goldenseal -- an herb found in the United States -- has been commonly used in the treatment of infections. While not studied in the treatment of bladder infections, goldenseal can help prevent bacteria from sticking to your bladder walls.
Bladder Infections
Bladder infections are common bacterial infections that affect the bladder. You may also here a bladder infection referred to as a UTI, urinary tract infection or cystitis. Bladder infection symptoms include painful urination, burning during urination, cloudy urine, foul-smelling urine, the frequent urge to urinate, abdominal pain, chills, fever and nausea. These infections can occur in anyone, but most commonly occur in females. A bladder infection is rarely serious, but does require treatment by a doctor. A medical history, urine specimen and physical exam will help to confirm a bladder infection. Treatment includes an antibiotic, over-the-counter pain medication and drinking plenty of fluids.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a plant that grows in the wilderness of the United States -- especially the Blue Ridge Mountains. You may also here goldenseal referred to as yellow root. Goldenseal can be used dry to make tea. Liquid and solid extracts from goldenseal can e used to make pills -- in capsule and tablet forms. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine indicates that goldenseal has a variety of uses including the treatment of ulcers, skin diseases, gonorrhea, infections, inflammation, cancer, sore gums, wounds and canker sores.
Goldenseal and Bladder Infections
The University of Michigan Health System indicates that goldenseal can help prevent and treat urinary tract infections. Goldenseal contains a substance known as berberine. Berberine is an alkaloid substance that can help to prevent bladder infections by inhibiting bacteria from sticking to the walls of your bladder. Goldenseal -- along with other substances that contains berberine can be able to treat bladder infections. However, no studies have been completed as of 2011 regarding goldenseal and the treatment of bladder infections.
Considerations
Always consult your doctor prior to using goldenseal for a bladder infection. Goldenseal may decrease the effectiveness of prescription medications and cause negative drug interactions. Goldenseal should not be used in treating children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Goldenseal is safe for short-term use in adults. Side effects may include vomiting and nausea.
