Urinary Incontinence is a frequently encountered medical problem that is often kept under wraps by those experiencing it. As a result, this condition, which is considered, emotionally distressing, and embarrassing is not treated at the earliest.
Urinary incontinence is also termed as enuresis or involuntary urination as it is characterized by decreased or complete loss of voluntary control over the bladder, resulting in spontaneous discharge of urine. In many patients, incontinence profoundly impairs their quality of life.
This inability in controlling the release of urine varies in severity from one person to the other but occurs more frequently in the male population (related to enlargement of prostate with advancing age). Some of the other causes related to this symptom (Take note: It is not a disease) include urinary tract infections, aging, obstruction, prostatitis, etc. Let’s take a look at some of the natural herbs that treat urinary incontinence.
Best Herbs For Incontinence
Saw Palmetto
Derived as the fruit extract of Serenoa repens, Saw palmettos has been in use as a tonic and antiseptic natural herb since many years. Saw palmetto does succeed in providing relief from urinary incontinence by shrinking the enlarged size of the prostate. The action of this herb involves cutting the activity of an enzyme that plays a role in triggering prostate problems.
One can either purchase or prepare the powdered form of saw palmetto and steep a few teaspoons (two to three) of the latter in boiling water so as to prepare herbal tea that can be taken a few times in a day. Some of the mild side effects to watch out for include gastrointestinal discomfort and constipation.
Horsetail
Herbalists often recommend the use of horsetail for people who experience the problem of urinary incontinence. Not only does Horsetail exhibit strong astringent properties, it also helps in strengthening the weakened connective tissue and muscles. The richness of silicic acid in the herb makes it a good choice for herbal treatment.
To prepare a cup of horsetail infused tea, add approximately two or three grams of the herb (in dried form) to boiling water. After allowing the water to steep for five minutes, strain it and have the resultant liquid at least twice in a day.
Cornsilk
Commonly known by other names, such as Indian corn, Stigmata maydes or mother’s hair, Cornsilk serves as a useful herbal remedy for urinary tract infections, stone formation, prostatitis as well as loss of bladder control.
Drinking cornsilk infused tea on a regular basis can help both, children as well as older people dealing with enuresis (bed wetting). Although it’s use seems safe for people, cornsilk may lead to the formation of rashes on the skin, initiate allergic reactions and itching. It is, therefore, advisable to have this herb in doses as recommended by the doctor.
Clear Incontinence With Cleavers
Another herbal plant that is easy to be found in many parts of the world is Cleavers, commonly called as catch weed or Goose grass. This herb belongs to Galium genus and has been recognized as an effective diuretic since a long time. This herb contains a number of active compounds; for example asperuloside, flavonoids along with tannins which helps in toning and strengthening the weak muscles that regulate bladder control.
Plantain
The leaves of Plantain are packed with tannins that prove to be of help in controlling the condition of hemorrhoids, bed wetting in children and overflow incontinence in adults.
Being a potent diuretic herb, the use of plantain accentuates the volume of urinary outflow, which flushes out the bacterial organisms and toxins. Speak to your doctor to know more about the potential side effects.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm or Melissa officinalis, popularly known as blue or bee balm, also cure-all offers innumerable medical benefits. Herbal decoctions prepared from the aerial parts of Lemon balm is believed to prolong longevity, alleviates heart palpitations as well as pain arising from dental problems.
Lemon balm works as a trustworthy herbal tonic. Therefore, people who have anxiety or stress induced bladder incontinence stand to benefit from it’s proper use.
