10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Overactive Bladder

Herbal decoctions for overactive bladder are concentrated liquid extracts made from a combination of herbs, which have been used to alleviate symptoms associated with urinary incontinence.

These decoctions help by soothing the bladder and urethral muscles, reducing frequency and urgency of urination. Examples of herbs used include horsetail, marshmallow root, and chamomile, which can be brewed into a tea or taken as a supplement.

By using herbal decoctions, individuals with overactive bladder can experience improved bladder control, reduced incontinence episodes, and enhanced overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for overactive bladder, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi

Bearberry decoctions helps with overactive bladder because of its natural ability to strengthen the muscles in the urinary tract.

The anthraquinone compounds present in bearberry, specifically aloe-emodin and chrysophanol, have been shown to increase the tone of the bladder musculature, reducing the frequency and urgency of urination. Additionally, bearberry's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe the bladder lining and reduce irritation, alleviating discomfort associated with overactive bladder symptoms.

This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to manage overactive bladder symptoms without relying on pharmaceutical interventions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid that acts as a muscle relaxant, helping to reduce muscle spasms in the bladder and urethra, thereby alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Tannins: A type of polyphenolic compound that has astringent properties, reducing inflammation and helping to regulate bladder contractions, thus providing relief from overactive bladder symptoms.
• Arbutin: A hydroquinone glycoside with antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the bladder muscles and reduce the frequency of urination associated with overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: Used for their astringent properties, which can help reduce urinary incontinence and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Barks: Employed for their medicinal properties, which include reducing inflammation and promoting muscle relaxation in the bladder.
• Roots: Utilized for their antispasmodic and astringent effects, which can help calm bladder spasms and reduce the frequency of urination.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for overactive bladder.

1. Harvest the required amount of dried uva ursi leaves which should be around 1 to 2 tablespoons per cup of water.
2. Rinse the dried uva ursi leaves with cold water to remove any impurities and residue.
3. Combine the rinsed dried uva ursi leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid has cooled down to room temperature.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.

2. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with overactive bladder because it provides a soothing and protective coating to the bladder lining, reducing irritation and inflammation.

The anti-inflammatory properties of marshmallow root also help to calm the muscles in the urinary tract, allowing for more efficient emptying of the bladder and reduced frequency of trips to the bathroom.

Additionally, marshmallow decoctions can help to reduce urgency and burning sensations associated with overactive bladder, promoting a sense of comfort and relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Mucilages: These complex polysaccharides help with overactive bladder by forming a protective film on the bladder mucosa, reducing irritation and inflammation.
• Glycosides: Inulin, a type of fructan glycoside, has prebiotic properties that can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for normal bladder function.
• Flavonoids: Kaempferol, a flavonoid present in Althaea officinalis, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce bladder inflammation and oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are commonly used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate urinary tract issues.
• Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are employed for their calming and demulcent effects to help manage symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Barks: Althaea officinalis barks are used for their protective and soothing properties to calm the bladder and urinary tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for overactive bladder.

1. Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried althaea officinalis root, rinsing it under cold running water to remove any debris.
2. Combine the dried root with 2 cups of boiling water in a saucepan, allowing it to steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove the solids.
4. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature, which may take about 30-45 minutes.
5. Transfer the cooled decoction to an airtight container, label it, and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

3. Solidago virgaurea

Goldenrod decoctions helps with overactive bladder because its active compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, have a soothing effect on the urinary tract.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the bladder and urethra, alleviating symptoms of urgency and frequency. Additionally, goldenrod's natural antibacterial properties may also help to eliminate underlying infections that can contribute to overactive bladder.

As a result, regular consumption of goldenrod decoctions may provide relief from frequent urination and other uncomfortable symptoms associated with overactive bladder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help relax the muscles of the bladder and urinary tract, reducing spasms and urgency associated with overactive bladder.
• Triterpenes: Triterpenes, particularly ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the bladder and urinary tract, contributing to overactive bladder symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid, may help relax the smooth muscles of the bladder and urinary tract, reducing spasms and frequency of urination associated with overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their diuretic properties, which can help increase urine production and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their ability to relax the urinary tract muscles and reduce spasms that can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.
• Barks: The barks are used due to their potential to reduce inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract, which can exacerbate overactive bladder symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for overactive bladder.

1. Harvest 20 to 30 grams of solidago virgaurea roots and rhizomes in early spring or fall for best results.
2. Chop the harvested solidago virgaurea into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped solidago virgaurea with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solidago virgaurea solids and discard.

4. Equisetum arvense

Field horsetail decoctions helps with overactive bladder because it is rich in silicon, which has been shown to strengthen the bladder lining and reduce inflammation.

The decoction's antioxidant properties also help to soothe the urinary tract and reduce irritation. Additionally, the flavonoids present in field horsetail have a natural ability to relax the muscles surrounding the bladder, allowing for improved urine flow and reduced urge to urinate.

This combination of properties makes field horsetail decoctions an effective natural remedy for managing overactive bladder symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Shikimic acid: Helps with overactive bladder by acting as a muscarinic receptor antagonist, which can reduce muscle contractions in the bladder and alleviate symptoms of urgency and frequency.
• Furanosesquiterpenes: Contributes to the therapeutic effects of Equisetum arvense by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Furanofuran lignans: May help to relax the bladder muscles and reduce the frequency of urinary incontinence by interacting with specific receptors in the bladder and promoting a reduction in bladder contractions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of compounds that help relax the muscles and reduce spasms associated with overactive bladder.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used in decoctions for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help soothe and calm the bladder.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used in combination with other parts, as they contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for overactive bladder.

1. Collect fresh equisetum arvense shoots in quantities of 20-30 grams for a standard decoction.
2. Chop the equisetum arvense shoots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better infusion.
3. Combine the chopped equisetum arvense with 500 milliliters of water in a pot and bring it to boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let the equisetum arvense decoction simmer for 5-10 minutes to release its active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the residue.

5. Serenoa repens

Saw palmetto decoctions helps with overactive bladder because it has been traditionally used to support urinary tract health and relieve symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and nocturia.

The natural compounds in saw palmetto may help soothe an overactive bladder by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation in the urinary tract, allowing for more control over bladder function.

By calming the muscles in the urethra and bladder, saw palmetto decoctions can reduce symptoms of urge incontinence and improve overall bladder health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Serenoa repens decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Iridoids: Iridoids, such as aucubin, may help with overactive bladder by exerting a relaxant effect on the bladder muscle, reducing spasms and frequency of urination.
• Phenylpropanoids: Phenylpropanoids, such as ferulic acid, may help with overactive bladder by acting as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the bladder and surrounding tissues.
• Triterpenes: Triterpenes, such as beta-sitosterol, may help with overactive bladder by exerting a mild relaxant effect on the bladder muscle, reducing the frequency and urgency of urination, and improving bladder control.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of saw palmetto used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Roots: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of fatty acids and phytosterols, which are believed to have a beneficial effect on the urinary system.
• Leaves: They are often used in decoctions as they are rich in flavonoids and terpenes, which may help to reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Barks: They are sometimes used in traditional medicine for their purported benefits in treating urinary issues, although the evidence is less clear than that for roots and leaves.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saw palmetto for overactive bladder.

1. Collect fresh or dried roots of serenoa repens in quantities of 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water.
2. Chop the collected roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has cooled to a comfortable temperature.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids to obtain the herbal decoction.

6. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with overactive bladder because its natural compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have a soothing effect on the urinary tract.

These compounds help to reduce inflammation and relax the smooth muscle in the bladder wall, allowing for improved urine storage capacity and reducing the frequency of urination. Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties help to protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to bladder dysfunction.

As a result, regular consumption of herbal ginger decoctions may provide relief from overactive bladder symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Gingerols: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help alleviate bladder spasms and reduce inflammation associated with overactive bladder.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols possess antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relax the bladder muscles and reduce the frequency of bladder contractions.
• 6-gingerol: This compound has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the bladder muscles, reducing the urgency and frequency of urination associated with overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Rhyzomes: Used for their anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties to help relax bladder muscles.
• Roots: Used for their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe bladder irritation and reduce urgency.
• Leaves: Used for their diuretic properties to help increase urine production and reduce bladder pressure.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for overactive bladder.

1. Harvest 2-3 inches of fresh zingiber officinale rhizome roots to be used for decoction.
2. Chop the harvested rhizome roots into small pieces to increase their surface area.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of chopped rhizome roots with 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with overactive bladder because it has a natural diuretic effect, increasing urine production and reducing frequency of urination.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe the urinary tract, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with overactive bladder symptoms. Additionally, dandelion's ability to balance electrolytes and fluids can help regulate the bladder's muscle contractions, providing relief from frequent trips to the bathroom.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to support urinary health and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale decoctions may help with overactive bladder by reducing inflammation and soothing the bladder muscles, thereby reducing urinary frequency and urgency.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, in Taraxacum officinale decoctions may help with overactive bladder by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bladder irritation and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, in Taraxacum officinale decoctions may help with overactive bladder by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bladder inflammation and improve bladder function.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are commonly used to make decoctions for overactive bladder due to their diuretic and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce bladder muscle spasms and increase urine production.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for overactive bladder because they contain compounds that have a soothing effect on the bladder and urinary tract, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for overactive bladder due to their antispasmodic and diuretic properties, which help to relax bladder muscles and increase urine production, providing relief from symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for overactive bladder.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh taraxacum officinale roots in the spring or fall to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Clean and chop the roots into small pieces to release their active compounds and make them easier to use.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove any solids.

8. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with overactive bladder because of its ability to soothe the urinary tract and reduce inflammation.

The flavonoids present in licorice root have a direct effect on the smooth muscle surrounding the bladder, relaxing it and reducing contractions that can lead to frequent urination. Additionally, the antioxidants in licorice decoctions help to combat oxidative stress and damage caused by chronic inflammation, further reducing symptoms of overactive bladder.

By providing relief from discomfort and inflammation, licorice decoctions can offer a natural solution for managing overactive bladder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Glycyrrhizin: It helps with overactive bladder by inhibiting the activity of the 5-HT3 receptor, which is involved in the regulation of bladder contractions.
• Licopyranocoumarin: It exerts an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing inflammation in the bladder and alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Licoricidin: It has antioxidant properties, helping to protect the bladder tissue from oxidative stress and potentially reducing bladder spasms and urgency.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used in decoctions to provide a gentle and soothing effect on the bladder, helping to reduce spasms and inflammation.
• Barks: The barks are also used in traditional medicine for overactive bladder, possibly due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help to relax the bladder muscles.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for overactive bladder.

1. Collect 5-10 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier.
2. Wash the roots gently with cold water to remove any impurities or debris.
3. Chop the roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Steep 2-3 grams of the chopped roots in 200 milliliters of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow decoctions helps with overactive bladder because of its ability to relax the urinary tract muscles, reducing spasms and frequency.

The antispasmodic properties in yarrow help calm the nerves that control urine flow, allowing for a smoother and more controlled release. Additionally, yarrow's anti-inflammatory effects may reduce inflammation in the bladder and urethra, further alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.

By promoting urinary health and reducing discomfort, yarrow decoctions can provide relief from frequent urination and urgency.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with overactive bladder by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can reduce muscle spasms in the bladder and alleviate symptoms.
• Nepalensetin: This flavonoid has been shown to inhibit the contraction of smooth muscle, which can help in relaxing the bladder muscles and reducing the urge to urinate.
• Bornyl acetate: This terpene has been found to have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle, thereby reducing muscle spasms in the bladder and alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to have a relaxing effect on the urinary tract.
• Roots: They are used due to their content of sesquiterpenes, which have been found to have a calming effect on the bladder muscles.
• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of apigenin, a flavonoid that has been shown to relax the smooth muscle of the bladder and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for overactive bladder.

1. Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh achillea millefolium leaves and flowers for decoction preparation.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces to release its medicinal properties efficiently immediately.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final product.

10. Juniperus communis

Juniper decoctions helps with overactive bladder because its active compounds, specifically terpenes and flavonoids, possess antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help to relax the muscles in the urinary tract, reducing spasms and contractions that can lead to frequent urination and incontinence. Additionally, juniper's ability to reduce inflammation may also help alleviate symptoms such as burning or discomfort associated with overactive bladder.

As a natural remedy, juniper decoctions offer a non-invasive and effective way to manage these bothersome symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Juniperus communis decoctions that help with overactive bladder.

• Terpenes: These terpenes have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the bladder muscles and reduce spasms associated with overactive bladder.
• Phenolic glycosides: These compounds have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the bladder and urethra, reducing the frequency of urination and alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids possess antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the urinary tract, alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder and promoting overall bladder health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of juniper used to make decoctions for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: Used due to their diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Seeds: Utilized for their ability to stimulate urine flow and relieve bladder spasms.
• Buds: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help reduce bladder irritation and muscle spasms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic juniper for overactive bladder.

1. Harvest fresh juniperus communis berries from the plant in late summer or early fall for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested berries in a single layer on a paper bag or parchment paper for 1 week.
3. Combine 20 grams of dried juniperus communis berries with 2 liters of boiling water to create a decoction.
4. Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the solids.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for overactive bladder?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with overactive bladder is a blend of Saw Palmetto, Uva Ursi, and Marshmallow root.

Saw Palmetto helps to reduce inflammation and relax the bladder muscles, while Uva Ursi has antibacterial properties that prevent infections and soothe the bladder lining. Marshmallow root provides soothing and protective properties, reducing irritation and inflammation. This combination can be consumed as a tea or decoction, ideally three times a day, to alleviate symptoms and promote bladder health.

Consult a healthcare professional before making any changes.

What ailments similar to overactive bladder are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to overactive bladder that are treated with herbal decoctions are urinary incontinence, bedwetting, and nocturia.

These conditions can be caused by various factors such as weakened pelvic muscles, hormone imbalances, or nerve damage.

Herbal decoctions like Cassia tea, Cnidium tea, and Epimedium tea have been traditionally used to treat these conditions by strengthening the bladder and urethral sphincters, reducing urine frequency and urgency, and improving overall urinary function.