Natural vitamins for bladder health have been used for centuries to relieve infections and help individuals control bladder problems. Some of the same ingredients are used today, found in herbal vitamins, teas and formulas for bladder health. Cranberry, buchu and uva ursi are examples of popular options that can be taken to control chronic bladder conditions and relieve the occasional bladder infection.
Cranberry
Cranberry is a widely used supplement for bladder health, touted for its effectiveness at preventing bacteria from accumulating within the bladder. According to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, cranberry is the natural product most used for urinary tract infections, used by 1.6 million people in 2007. Other benefits of cranberry include anti-inflammatory action and antioxidant activity. Cranberry can be taken as a supplement for the prevention of bladder infections, which may help relieve the symptoms associated with such infections, including frequent urination and urgency.
Buchu
Buchu is a natural remedy for conditions of the bladder, available over the counter in drug stores and herbal shops. It may be used alone, or in conjunction with other herbal ingredients in formulas for health. The active ingredients are found in the buchu plant's leaves, and they include flavonoids, B vitamins, disophenol and tannins, according to ChineseHerbs.org. The antiseptic and diuretic characteristics of the plant make it an effective remedy for bothersome bladder symptoms and infections. According to Drugs.com, the drug has been included in the United States National Formulary, described as a diuretic and antiseptic. While other medications have taken the place of buchu, it remains a popular ingredient in herbal diuretic preparations, which may help you empty your bladder, reducing urgency and risks of infections.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) is also known as bearberry, due to its popularity among bears. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the herb has been used since the 2nd century as a remedy for urinary tract infections. Today, uva ursi remains a treatment for urinary tract infections and bladder inflammation. The active ingredients, chemicals like hydroquinone, antibacterial properties and tannins allow the herb to fight infection and reduce inflammation. Conventionial medications may be more practical options, however, presenting fewer risks of side effects, according to UMMC.
