Interstitial cystitis disease is a condition in which the walls of the bladder become chronically inflamed. This inflammation causes pain in the pelvic area as well as painful urination and intercourse. Interstitial cystitis can also cause increased urgency to urinate that can lead to needing to urinate more frequently. According to PubMed Health, there is no known cause of interstitial cystitis, but it tends to affect women more often than men and usually strikes between the ages of 30 and 40. Medications are used to treat symptoms of interstitial cystitis, and some herbs may also help decrease symptoms. Check with your doctor before using any herbal treatment approach.
Uva ursi
Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, is an herb commonly used to treat infections of the urinary tract. This versatile herb has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may treat and prevent recurring bladder infections. Additionally, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains that uva ursi is also an effective treatment for interstitial cystitis. Uva ursi is available in tea, capsule and dried herb forms. Uva ursi should be used with the supervision of your physician due to its potentially toxic effects that can cause liver damage.
Marshmallow Root
Unlike the candy of the same name, the herb marshmallow root has medicinal properties and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that can reduce the pain of interstitial cystitis. Marshmallow also forms a coating when it comes in contact with water, which can help soothe the irritated lining of the digestive and urinary tracts. Marshmallow is available as a capsule, tea, dried root and extract and is also used in many natural topical creams for inflammation. This herb is considered relatively safe to use, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center; however, always check with your doctor first.
Motherwort
Motherwort is an herb that is a natural antibacterial that also has sedative properties. According to the Interstitial Cystitis Network, motherwort can also relax spasming muscles, decreasing pain and inflammation, and it can restore flexibility to the walls of your uterus. If you have interstitial cystitis, using motherwort may help relieve pain and feelings of urinary urgency. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center explains that the recommended daily dosage of motherwort is 4.5 gm of the dried herb. Motherwort is considered relatively safe to use, with few reported side effects. If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, however, check with your doctor before using this herb.
Garlic
Garlic is popular as a flavoring for foods, but it is also an herb that has antibiotic, antiviral and anti-fungal properties, according to the Interstitial Cystitis Network. Garlic also helps improve immunity and may keep yeast infections in the body under control. ICN explains that individuals with interstitial cystitis are twice as likely to have a history of recurring urinary tract infections. Garlic may help decrease this incidence by strengthening the immune system, which helps reduce the incidence of opportunistic infections that can occur under stress.
References
- PubMed Health: Interstitial Cystitis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Uva Ursi
- Interstitial Cystitis Network: Patient Handbook: Herbal Supplements
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Marshmallow
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center: Motherwort
- Interstitial Cystitis Network: What is Interstitial Cystitis and Painful Bladder Syndrome
