Supplements to fight OAB (part 2)
Overactive bladder (OAB) is most commonly treated with prescription medications to control bladder muscles. Yet, herbal remedies are becoming more common as a natural treatment. This is part 2 of a series on the use of herbal supplements. Here are a few herbs that have a proven benefit to (OAB).
Bladderwrack is a form of seaweed. Due to its high iodine content, this herb is mostly recognized in treating underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It is also used in the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB).
There is not yet enough studies to prove that "Bladderwack" herb is an effective treatment method to treat OAB, and you should avoid it if you:
take synthetic hormones for hypothyroidism
have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
use other forms of iodine, such as kelp
are pregnant or breastfeeding
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto plants are commonplace in eastern parts of the United States, such as Florida. While the tree might look good in your yard, some evidence suggests that it can do your bladder good, too.
The herb is actually derived from saw palmetto berries. According to theNational Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, it is most effective for overactive bladder in men with prostate problems. However, saw palmetto should not be used to treat prostate cancer.
Gosha-Jinki-Gan (see previous blog post for link)
Other herbs have a little more backing from science, like Gosha-jinki-gan. A 2007 study focused on the effects of this herb on bladder activity in rats. According to the study, bladder contractions were lower in the group of rats given the herb.
Researchers concluded that the blended herbal medicine inhibited bladder activity by maintaining balance in the nervous systems. This provides some hope for overactive bladder treatment, but human studies are still needed.
Tonics and Mixtures
While there are some stand-alone herbs used to treat overactive bladder, others can be combined with different ingredients. One example is the BioActive Homeopathic Kidney Tonic. This tonic includes some herbs, such as pareira brava and Echinacea, to help decrease urinary urges and frequent bathroom visits. Tonics like this one still aren’t FDA-approved, and they are not recommended for children.
Unwanted Side Effects
Unwanted side effects can be a downside to the natural aspect of herbs. For example, cornsilk, an herb used to prevent bladder infections, also has a diuretic effect on the body. Horsetail may also be a diuretic. Herbs like these may actually increase trips to the bathroom, as well as your urges to go.
Other common herbal side effects can include:
upset stomach
sleeping problems
blood clotting issues
These side effects are more likely when taking more than one herb at the same time.
Most herbs are off-limits during pregnancy and breast-feeding because of transfers to babies.
Are Herbs Worth the Risk?
Misconceptions surrounding safety are among the biggest risks associated with herbal remedies. While herbs are deemed as natural, they can be just as powerful as conventional medications. This means that seemingly safe herbs can pose some side effects, and even interact with other bladder medications. Before choosing an herbal remedy for (OAB), you should discuss all of the safety aspects with your doctor first. Your doctor can talk you through dosage(s), side effects, drug interactions, and more.
(Please stay tuned to this blog as we review more herbal supplements on our future posts.)
