10 Best Herbal Teas For Overactive Bladder
Herbal teas for overactive bladder are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of frequent urination and incontinence.
They work by relaxing the muscles in the bladder and reducing inflammation, allowing for better bladder control. Examples of herbal teas that help include chamomile, peppermint, and sage, which have been shown to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
For instance, a woman with overactive bladder can enjoy a cup of chamomile tea before bed, promoting a restful night's sleep without frequent awakenings for urination.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for overactive bladder, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with overactive bladder because its active compounds, valerenic acid and valeranone, have a calming effect on the nervous system.
This relaxation of the nervous system helps to reduce muscle spasms in the bladder and urinary tract, allowing for more controlled urination.
Additionally, valerian teas have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to soothe and protect the bladder and urinary tract from irritation and damage, promoting a sense of calm and improved bladder function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid acts as a GABA_A receptor agonist, which helps to relax the detrusor muscle and reduce bladder spasms associated with overactive bladder.
- Valerenol: Valerenol exhibits a sedative and calming effect on the nervous system, which may help to reduce the frequency of bladder contractions and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Valeranone: Valeranone has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the bladder muscles, reducing bladder contractions and urgency, and may also have a direct effect on the bladder's ability to store urine, thereby alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which have a sedative effect and help to relax the muscles in the bladder.
- Stems: Stems also contain valerenic acids and are used in some herbal blends for their potential to help reduce bladder spasms.
- Leaves: Leaves of Valeriana officinalis contain smaller amounts of valerenic acids but are still used in some teas for their potential to help alleviate bladder discomfort and promote relaxation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for overactive bladder.
- Gather 2-3 grams of dried valeriana officinalis root in a clean container to make herbal tea.
- Boil 1 liter of water in a kettle for 5-7 minutes to reach the ideal temperature.
- Steep the valeriana officinalis root in the boiling water for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container immediately.
- Allow the tea to cool down for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance its therapeutic properties.
2. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Arctostaphylos uva ursi, also known as bearberry, teas helps with overactive bladder because it contains a compound called arbutin, which has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the muscles in the urinary tract.
This can help reduce the frequency and urgency of urination associated with overactive bladder.
Additionally, bearberry's natural astringent properties may help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract, further contributing to its potential benefits in managing overactive bladder symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce bladder inflammation and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Arbutin: This phenolic glycoside has been found to have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle of the bladder, which may help reduce bladder spasms and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic acid has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the bladder, leading to alleviation of overactive bladder symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Leaves: The leaves of Arctostaphylos uva ursi are used to make teas for overactive bladder due to their high concentration of arbutin, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Barks: The barks of Arctostaphylos uva ursi are used to make teas for overactive bladder as they contain tannins that help to reduce inflammation and relieve bladder spasms.
- Leaves: The leaves of Arctostaphylos uva ursi are also used to make teas for overactive bladder due to their ability to relax the muscles and reduce bladder contractions, helping to alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for overactive bladder.
- Harvest 1 to 2 ounces of fresh arctostaphylos uva ursi leaves and stems in late summer.
- Dry the harvested arctostaphylos uva ursi in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried arctostaphylos uva ursi in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the steeped arctostaphylos uva ursi and discard the solids to obtain the herbal tea.
- Serve the arctostaphylos uva ursi tea hot or cold within 3 days of preparation.
3. Cornus sericea
Cornus sericea, also known as red osier, teas helps with overactive bladder because of its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's extracts have been shown to relax the muscles in the bladder and urinary tract, reducing the frequency and urgency of urination. Additionally, Cornus sericea teas may help to soothe and calm the nervous system, which can be beneficial in managing stress-related bladder issues.
Regular consumption may lead to improved bladder control and a reduced need to urinate frequently.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cornus sericea teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, specifically including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce bladder inflammation and alleviate overactive bladder symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a major flavonoid in Cornus sericea, has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and relaxant effects on smooth muscle tissues, potentially alleviating bladder spasms and overactive bladder symptoms.
- Tannins: Tannins in Cornus sericea may help to reduce bladder spasms and alleviate overactive bladder symptoms by their astringent and antispasmodic properties, which can help to decrease bladder muscle contractions.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of red osier used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Roots: They contain cornuside, a compound that may help relax the bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which may have a calming effect on the bladder and help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Barks: They contain a variety of compounds, including tannins, that may help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the bladder.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red osier for overactive bladder.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried cornus sericea bark or leaves from a trusted herbal source for medicinal use.
- Combine the gathered herb with 8 ounces of boiling water to create a strong tea infusion.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the bioactive compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid herbal particles from the liquid.
- Serve the herbal tea immediately and discard any remaining solids to minimize flavor degradation.
4. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, teas helps with overactive bladder because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The leaves of the plant contain mucilages, which soothe and calm the bladder muscles, reducing spasms and urgency. This helps to regulate bladder function and improve continence. Additionally, the tea's diuretic properties help to flush out toxins and excess fluids, further reducing the frequency and urgency of bladder episodes.
This natural remedy provides a holistic approach to managing overactive bladder symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Apolipoprotein a-i: This constituent helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the bladder, which can contribute to symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the bladder from damage caused by free radicals and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Apolipoprotein b-48: This constituent has been shown to have a relaxing effect on smooth muscle cells in the bladder, which can help reduce the frequency and urgency of urination associated with overactive bladder.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for overactive bladder due to their high concentration of aucubin, a compound with diuretic properties.
- Seeds: They are used to make teas for overactive bladder due to their ability to reduce inflammation and act as a natural diuretic.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for overactive bladder due to their high concentration of aucubin and other compounds that help in reducing the frequency of urination.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for overactive bladder.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh plantago major leaves and stems to use for herbal tea.
- Rinse the plantago major leaves and stems with cold water to remove dirt.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried plantago major leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the plantago major tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove loose leaves.
- Store the herbal tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
5. Crataegus monogyna
Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, teas helps with overactive bladder because it contains flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs) that may help relax the bladder muscles and improve bladder control.
These compounds may also increase the bladder's capacity and reduce the frequency of urination. Additionally, hawthorn's diuretic properties can help reduce fluid retention, which can exacerbate overactive bladder symptoms.
By addressing these underlying issues, hawthorn tea may provide relief for individuals experiencing overactive bladder.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, which can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds may have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle in the bladder, reducing muscle spasms and urgency.
- Proanthocyanidins: These powerful antioxidants may help improve bladder function by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and muscle spasms, leading to improved bladder control.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Fruits: The fruits of Crataegus monogyna are used to make teas, as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have been shown to have a beneficial effect on the bladder and urinary system.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are used in teas, as they are rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help to reduce the frequency of urination and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Buds: The buds of Crataegus monogyna are used in teas, as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to relax the bladder muscles and reduce the symptoms of overactive bladder.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for overactive bladder.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh or dried berries of the specified tree in the morning.
- Wash the berries thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and impurities.
- Combine the berries with 1 cup of boiling water in a large pot.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes or until the desired strength is achieved.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
6. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, teas helps with overactive bladder because of its soothing and calming properties.
The roots of the marshmallow plant contain mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the bladder and urinary tract walls. This helps to reduce inflammation and irritation, alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder such as urgency and frequency.
By relaxing the muscles and reducing spasms, Althaea officinalis tea promotes smooth and controlled urination, providing relief from the discomfort and disruptions caused by overactive bladder.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and calm the bladder mucosa, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with overactive bladder.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce bladder irritation and prevent bladder muscle contractions.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Althaea officinalis teas have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which may help relax the bladder muscle and reduce the frequency of urination.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Roots: Used for their demulcent and soothing properties to calm the bladder and urinary tract.
- Leaves: Employed for their ability to reduce inflammation and irritation in the urinary system.
- Barks: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to promote bladder health and prevent spasms.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for overactive bladder.
- Harvest 2 to 4 ounces of dried root of althaea officinalis from well-drained soil in late summer.
- Rinse the dried root in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water for 2 minutes.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried root with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes then strain it into a teacup using a fine-mesh strainer.
- Serve the tea warm or at room temperature immediately after straining for optimal flavor.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with overactive bladder because of its diuretic properties, which promote urine production and improve bladder function.
The tea's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and inulin, help to reduce inflammation and relax the bladder muscles, reducing symptoms of urgency and frequency. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties may help to protect the bladder from damage and promote overall urinary health, providing relief for those suffering from overactive bladder.
Its benefits make it a popular natural remedy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene helps with overactive bladder by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can reduce muscle spasms and inflammation in the bladder.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin helps with overactive bladder by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can alleviate bladder irritation and reduce muscle contractions.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid phenolic compound helps with overactive bladder by exhibiting antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce muscle spasms and inflammation in the bladder, leading to improved bladder control.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Roots: The roots are another primary source of bioactive compounds, particularly saponins, that contribute to the medicinal properties of Taraxacum officinale teas for overactive bladder.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas that help relax the urinary tract muscles and reduce spasms, providing relief from overactive bladder symptoms.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for overactive bladder.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers for tea preparation.
- Rinse the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with cold running water to remove impurities.
- Chop the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers into smaller pieces for efficient steeping.
- Steep one teaspoon of taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in boiling water for five to seven minutes.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale tea and discard the solids to serve hot or chilled.
8. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, teas helps with overactive bladder because it contains hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds may help to soothe the bladder muscles, reducing spasms and frequency of urination. Additionally, St. John's Wort tea may also help to regulate the body's hormonal balance, which can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.
The anti-inflammatory properties may also reduce inflammation in the bladder, leading to a reduction in symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Hyperforin: Helps with overactive bladder by acting as a potassium channel opener, which can lead to relaxation of the bladder muscle and improved bladder control.
- Hypericin: Exerts anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation and irritation in the bladder that may contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.
- Ampelopsin: A flavonoid compound that may help relax the bladder muscle and improve bladder function, possibly by inhibiting the activity of certain neurotransmitters involved in bladder contractions.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Leaves: They are used due to their flavonoid content, which has been shown to have a positive effect on bladder control.
- Flowers: They are used for their flavonoid and phenolic acid content, which may help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Roots: They are used for their flavonoid and alkaloid content, which may help relax the muscles in the urinary tract and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for overactive bladder.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh or dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the summer months when in bloom.
- Cleanse the harvested plant material by rinsing it with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steep 2-3 teaspoons of the cleaned plant material in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the steeped mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the plant material.
- Allow the tea to cool for 5-10 minutes before consuming it.
9. Equisetum arvense
Equisetum arvense, also known as field horsetail, teas helps with overactive bladder because it contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds may help soothe and calm the bladder muscles, reducing frequency and urgency of urination. Additionally, Equisetum arvense is believed to help balance hormonal fluctuations that can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms, promoting a healthy balance of the body's natural detoxification processes.
Regular consumption of Equisetum arvense teas may provide relief from overactive bladder symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Furanosesquiterpenes: These compounds have been found to relax smooth muscle in the bladder, reducing contraction and alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.
- Saponins: Saponins in Equisetum arvense may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, contributing to the alleviation of overactive bladder symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, present in Equisetum arvense, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce bladder irritation and inflammation, thereby alleviating overactive bladder symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Roots: They contain compounds like flavonoids and lignans, which may help in reducing inflammation and alleviating overactive bladder symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may contribute to their potential benefits in managing overactive bladder symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, that may help in reducing inflammation and improving urinary function.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for overactive bladder.
- Harvest fresh or dried equisetum arvense stems and leaves in the spring or early summer.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material to prevent contamination and ensure quality.
- Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried equisetum arvense per 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the plant material in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the equisetum arvense tea hot or iced.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with overactive bladder because of its natural ability to relax the smooth muscles in the bladder.
The tea's active compounds, such as anethole, have a calming effect on the bladder muscles, reducing muscle spasms and the frequent need to urinate. Additionally, fennel tea may help improve bladder control by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is often linked to bladder health.
This natural remedy provides relief for those suffering from overactive bladder symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with overactive bladder.
- Foeniculin: Foeniculin, a sesquiterpene, may help reduce overactive bladder symptoms by modulating smooth muscle relaxation and inhibiting contraction.
- Anethole: Anethole, a phenylpropene, may help alleviate overactive bladder symptoms by exhibiting antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the bladder muscles and reduce urinary frequency and urgency.
- Dillapiole: Dillapiole, a phenylpropanoid, may help alleviate overactive bladder symptoms by exhibiting antispasmodic and relaxant properties, which can help reduce bladder muscle contractions and frequency of urination.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for overactive bladder.
- Seeds: Fennel seeds are commonly used to make teas for overactive bladder due to their natural ability to soothe the digestive system and relax the muscles.
- Leaves: Fennel leaves are used to make teas that help to calm the urinary tract and reduce the frequency of urination.
- Roots: Fennel roots are used to make teas that can help to calm the nervous system and reduce the symptoms of overactive bladder.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for overactive bladder.
- Harvest 2-3 teaspoons of fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers or 1 teaspoon of dried material for tea.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot for 2-3 minutes or until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Steep the harvested foeniculum vulgare in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until it reaches desired strength.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Serve the tea hot or iced and enjoy it as is or with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for overactive bladder?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with overactive bladder is a blend of Uva Ursi, Corn Silk, and Dandelion root.
Uva Ursi helps to soothe and calm the bladder, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Corn Silk tea has natural diuretic properties that aid in flushing out the system, while Dandelion root tea supports kidney function and promotes a healthy balance of fluids.
This combination can help to alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder and promote overall urinary health.