The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, sphincter muscles and the urethra. Its main job is to remove urea, a waste byproduct, from your blood. When your urinary system is not running smoothly due to age, illness, or injury, problems such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections may arise. For most of these conditions, medication is available but there are other remedies to consider such as herbs that have diuretic, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi is an herb used to treat bladder inflammation and urinary tract infections, due to its antibacterial properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, uva ursi is most effective at the first sign of infection, and when the urine is mostly alkaline. The September 2008 issue of "Alternative Medicine Review" concurred, claiming that uva ursi is effective in treating early onset UTIs but only as a short-term preventative solution because it contains a chemical that is toxic to the liver known as hydroquinone. Before using this herb, consult a doctor. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, insomnia and mild irritability. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or people who have digestive issues such as Crohn's disease, kidney or liver disease, ulcers, or high blood pressure should avoid using uva ursi.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle is used to treat urinary issues such as urinary tract infections and benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is an enlarged prostate. It may also be used to relieve specific BPH symptoms including post urination drip, the constant urge to urinate and reduced urinary flow. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that stinging nettle acts like finasteride, a common medication prescribed for BPH, slowing down the growth of prostate cells but does not decrease prostate size. Using stinging nettle appears to be safe but can cause mild side effects including fluid retention, stomach upset, hives and skin rashes. Stinging nettle should never be used by pregnant women because it can cause miscarriage. Consult a doctor before using stinging nettle for any urinary issue.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that has immuno-stimulating, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that may be used to treat and prevent urinary tract infections. Using echinacea may cause nausea, dyspepsia and dizziness. According to "American Family Physician," echinacea may also cause a severe allergic reaction, especially to those who have a history of allergies to the daisy family including marigold, ragweed, and chrysanthemum, resulting in asthma exacerbation, angio-edema and anaphylaxis. Consult a medical professional before using this herb.
Goldenrod
Goldenrod is an herb that carries anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, analgesic, and diuretic properties that may be help treat urinary tract infections, remove urinary gravel and prevent kidney stones. Goldenrod is considered generally safe but may cause minor heartburn. This herb may also cause an allergic reaction. Those who suffer from osteoporosis, hypertension, hypotension, heart or kidney disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using goldenrod.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Uva Ursi
- "Alternative Medicine Review"; Natural Approaches to Prevention and Treatment of Infections of the Lower Urinary Tract; K.A. Head; September 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Stinging Nettle
- "Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift"; Goldenrod--A Classical Exponent in the Urological Phytotherapy; M.F. Melzig; November 2004
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Goldenrod
- "American Family Physician"; Echinachea; B. Klinger M.D.; January 2003
