10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Overactive Bladder

Herbal tinctures for overactive bladder are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have been traditionally used to support urinary health.

These natural remedies help alleviate symptoms by reducing muscle spasms and relaxing the bladder, allowing for more efficient urination. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise in managing overactive bladder include St. John's Wort, which helps regulate nerve function, and Marshmallow root, which soothes and calms the urinary tract.

By taking these tinctures, individuals can experience a reduction in frequency and urgency of urination, improving their quality of life and reducing anxiety related to accidents or leakage.

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

1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi

Bearberry tinctures helps with overactive bladder because it contains anthraquinones, a natural compound that has been shown to have a calming effect on the muscles in the urinary tract.

This relaxation of the muscles can help reduce the frequency and urgency of urination, as well as alleviate symptoms such as leakage and discomfort.

Additionally, bearberry tinctures may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe any irritation or inflammation in the bladder and urethra, further reducing symptoms associated with overactive bladder.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound helps with overactive bladder by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, which can contribute to symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Arbutin: This phenolic glycoside has been shown to relax the smooth muscle in the bladder and reduce the frequency of urination, making it a potential natural treatment for overactive bladder.
• Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have astringent properties that may help to reduce the frequency of urination and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder by constricting the bladder and reducing its irritability.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used because they are known to contain arbutin, a compound that helps relax the bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Roots: The roots are used because they are rich in arbutin and other bioactive compounds that help relax the bladder muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of clean dried arctostaphylos uva ursi leaves and stems in the summer months.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Filter the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage.

2. Serenoa repens

Saw palmetto tinctures helps with overactive bladder because it has a natural ability to relax the muscles in the urinary tract, reducing symptoms of urgency and frequency.

The herb's primary compound, beta-sitosterol, blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is known to cause an increase in prostatic size and contribute to overactive bladder syndrome.

By balancing hormonal levels and relaxing the muscles, saw palmetto tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder, providing relief for those affected by this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoids: Iridoids, such as serenoa glycoside, may help alleviate overactive bladder symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the activity of certain neurotransmitters involved in bladder control.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in saw palmetto may help decrease inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, which can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms, thereby reducing discomfort and improving bladder control.
• Lignans: Lignans in saw palmetto may help relax the smooth muscle in the bladder and urethra, reducing muscle spasms and improving bladder capacity, which can lead to relief from overactive bladder symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of saw palmetto extract, which has been traditionally used to support urinary health.
• Leaves: They are used as an alternative to roots, as they also contain saw palmetto extract and have similar properties.
• Rhyzomes: They are used as they contain a high concentration of saw palmetto extract, similar to roots, and are used in some herbal remedies for urinary health.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of serenoa repens roots and rhizomes in the fall or spring for optimal potency.
2. Chop 1 part of the harvested plant material into smaller pieces to increase surface area.
3. Mix 1 part of chopped plant material with 2-3 parts of 80% ethanol or glycerin in a glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks or up to 8 weeks for stronger tincture.
5. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle after the steeping period.

3. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with overactive bladder because of its soothing properties that calm the urinary tract and reduce inflammation.

The herb's mucilage, a thick, protective substance, coats and shields the bladder lining, relieving irritation and discomfort. Additionally, marshmallow tincture has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to repair and regenerate damaged tissue, reducing frequency and urgency of urination.

This natural remedy can provide long-lasting relief for individuals suffering from overactive bladder symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the bladder, reducing irritation and inflammation that can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.
• Phenolic glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce bladder muscle spasms and improve bladder function in individuals with overactive bladder.
• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to reduce bladder irritation and inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and calm the bladder muscles.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their ability to relax the bladder muscles and reduce inflammation, providing relief from overactive bladder symptoms.
• Barks: The barks are used for their medicinal properties, including their ability to calm the bladder and reduce spasms, which helps to manage overactive bladder symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 100 grams of fresh or dried roots of althaea officinalis.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 500 milliliters of high-proof ethanol in a clean glass container.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for a minimum of two weeks to allow infusion.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

4. Zea mays

Corn tinctures helps with overactive bladder because they contain a unique combination of herbs that work together to soothe and calm the urinary tract.

The active ingredients, such as corn silk and uva ursi, help to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the bladder and urethra, allowing for easier urination and fewer frequent trips to the bathroom.

Additionally, these herbs may also help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, further reducing the symptoms of overactive bladder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zea mays tinctures that help with overactive bladder.

• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Zea mays tinctures may help alleviate overactive bladder symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Zea mays may contribute to its potential benefits for overactive bladder by relaxing the smooth muscle in the urinary tract, reducing spasms and improving bladder control.
• Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid, a phenolic acid in Zea mays, may help mitigate overactive bladder symptoms by inhibiting the contraction of bladder smooth muscle and reducing the frequency of urination.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of corn used to make tinctures for overactive bladder.

• Seeds: Rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that may help alleviate bladder symptoms.
• Leaves: Contain various bioactive compounds that may help relax the bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Stems: May be used to create a tincture that helps to soothe and calm the bladder, reducing symptoms of overactive bladder.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of zea mays flowers and leaves and 2 parts of high-proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the zea mays flowers and leaves with the vodka or glycerin in the jar and seal it tightly.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking it daily to infuse the zea mays.
4. Strain the zea mays tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discard the solids.
5. Transfer the zea mays tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

5. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal tinctures helps with overactive bladder because it contains berberine, a natural compound that has been shown to relax the muscles of the urinary tract, reducing spasms and frequency.

Berberine also has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that may contribute to bladder irritability.

Additionally, goldenseal's anti-inflammatory effects can soothe irritated bladder tissue, reducing discomfort and urgency, providing relief from frequent urination and incontinence episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with overactive bladder.

• Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid compound found in Hydrastis canadensis, may help alleviate overactive bladder symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, thereby promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms.
• Hydrastine: Hydrastine, a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid in Hydrastis canadensis, has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its potential benefits in reducing urinary tract infections and inflammation associated with overactive bladder.
• Hydrastis glycoside: Hydrastis glycoside, a phenolic glycoside in Hydrastis canadensis, may help relax the bladder muscle and reduce muscle spasms, thereby alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for overactive bladder.

• Roots: The root of Hydrastis canadensis is considered the most effective part due to its high concentration of berberine, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Hydrastis canadensis are also used as they are believed to contain similar compounds to the roots, although to a lesser extent.
• Leaves: Leaves of Hydrastis canadensis contain smaller amounts of berberine but are still used in some cases due to their potential to provide relief from overactive bladder symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh hydrastis canadensis roots in the fall season.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Dry the roots in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
4. Chop 1 part of dried roots into smaller pieces and combine with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 6-8 weeks, shaking the jar daily.

6. Hypericum perforatum

St John's wort tinctures helps with overactive bladder because of its ability to calm the nervous system and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.

The herb has a long history of use as a natural relaxant, which can help alleviate symptoms such as urgency, frequency, and nocturia.

Additionally, St John's Wort may also help to reduce muscle spasms in the bladder and urethra, allowing for more efficient emptying of the bladder and reducing the risk of leakage or accidents.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with overactive bladder.

• Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that has been shown to relax smooth muscle in the bladder, reducing spasms and alleviating symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Naphthodianthrone derivatives: Compounds that have been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can contribute to urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can exacerbate overactive bladder symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Plant compounds that have antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, potentially alleviating overactive bladder symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and xanthones with potential anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate bladder spasms.
• Flowers: They have been traditionally used to treat urinary issues due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce bladder irritation and spasms.
• Roots: They are rich in hypericin and hyperforin, which have potential anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help soothe the urinary tract and reduce bladder spasms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for overactive bladder.

1. Gather 1 part of dried hypericum perforatum flowers in a clean glass jar to ensure quality.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in the glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow infusion to occur.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass container to remove solids.
5. Transfer the resulting tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with overactive bladder because of its natural ability to calm the urinary tract and reduce inflammation.

The herbal extract has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the bladder lining, reducing irritation and frequency of urination. Additionally, dandelion tincture can help relax the muscles in the pelvic floor, which can become tense and contribute to overactive bladder symptoms such as urgency and incontinence.

By promoting a healthy balance in the urinary tract, dandelion tinctures provide relief from frequent trips to the bathroom and associated discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds have been shown to have a relaxing effect on the bladder muscles, reducing the urge to urinate frequently.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate bladder inflammation and irritation associated with overactive bladder.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol, have been found to have a relaxing effect on the bladder and may help reduce the frequency of urination.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of saponins, which have been shown to have a relaxing effect on the bladder muscles.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their ability to stimulate the bladder's parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh dandelion roots and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated when temperatures are mild.
2. Clean and dry the harvested dandelion roots and leaves thoroughly using paper towels for 2 hours.
3. Chop 500 grams of dried dandelion roots and leaves into fine particles using a coffee grinder for 10 minutes.
4. Combine the chopped dandelion particles with 1000 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass jar for 6 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids immediately.

8. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with overactive bladder because of its unique properties that soothe and calm the urinary tract.

The active compounds in maypop, such as flavonoids and terpenes, have a natural ability to reduce muscle spasms and relax the bladder muscles, allowing for more efficient urine storage and reduced frequency of urination.

Additionally, maypop's anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate irritation and discomfort associated with overactive bladder, promoting a healthier urinary tract overall.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with overactive bladder.

• Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have been shown to have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle in the bladder, which can help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been found to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that may contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.
• Iridoids: These compounds have been found to have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle in the bladder and may also have a mild diuretic effect, which can help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and alkaloids which have a relaxing effect on the bladder and urinary tract.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata contain a high concentration of passifloric acid, which is believed to help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the bladder.
• Fruits: The pulp and juice of the fruit contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce the frequency of urination and alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1:8 to 1:10 ratio of dried plant material to solvent at peak flower and fruit stage.
2. Dry the freshly harvested plant material at 30-40°c for 24-48 hours to remove moisture.
3. Combine 250ml of solvent such as 80-95% ethanol or glycerin with 25 grams of dried plant material.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass container for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

9. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with overactive bladder because it has a calming effect on the urinary tract, reducing spasms and contractions that can cause frequent urination.

The herb's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and citral, work together to soothe the muscles in the bladder and urethra, allowing for more relaxed and efficient urination.

By promoting relaxation and reducing tension, lemon balm tinctures help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder, providing relief from frequent trips to the bathroom.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce muscle spasms and inflammation associated with overactive bladder.
• Linalool: This terpene has a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help reduce the frequency and urgency of urination by regulating bladder contractions.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help relax the bladder muscles and reduce the symptoms of overactive bladder, such as urgency and frequency.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are used to make tinctures for overactive bladder because of their high content of volatile oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to relax the muscles and reduce bladder spasms.
• Roots: The roots of Melissa officinalis are used to make tinctures for overactive bladder because they contain a higher concentration of alkaloids and saponins, which have been found to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are used to make tinctures for overactive bladder because they contain a mixture of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the bladder and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the plant material in a single layer at a temperature below 105 degrees fahrenheit for 1 to 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 part of the dried plant material with 2 parts of a neutral solvent like vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, transfer the tincture to a clean glass bottle.

10. Trifolium pratense

Red clover tinctures helps with overactive bladder because it contains isoflavones, which have been shown to relax the muscles in the bladder and urethra, reducing frequency and urgency of urination.

Additionally, red clover's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe the bladder lining and reduce inflammation that can contribute to overactive bladder symptoms.

By calming the muscle contractions and reducing inflammation, red clover tinctures may provide natural relief for individuals experiencing frequent trips to the bathroom throughout the day or night.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense tinctures that help with overactive bladder.

• Isoflavones: These plant-derived estrogen compounds help to relax the bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder by mimicking the effects of estrogen in the body.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the bladder, contributing to the alleviation of overactive bladder symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These compounds can help to relax the bladder muscles and improve bladder function by inhibiting the contraction of smooth muscle cells, leading to a reduction in symptoms of overactive bladder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make tinctures for overactive bladder.

• Leaves: They are the most used part due to their high content of isoflavones, which have been shown to have a positive effect on the bladder.
• Roots: The roots are also used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms of overactive bladder.
• Seeds: Red Clover seeds contain a high amount of isoflavones and other compounds that have been shown to have a beneficial effect on the bladder and urinary tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh red clover flowers and 1 part of fresh leaves in early summer morning.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks or until the liquid becomes dark brown.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Store the trifolium pratense tincture in a cool dark place and use within 2 years or as needed.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with overactive bladder is typically a blend of Urva Ursi, Corn Silk, and Dandelion Root.

Urva Ursi helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, while Corn Silk soothes and calms the urinary tract. Dandelion Root stimulates digestion and supports the elimination of excess fluids, which can contribute to overactive bladder.

Taking 20-30 drops of each tincture in water, 2-3 times a day, can help to alleviate symptoms and promote overall urinary health.

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

Ailments similar to overactive bladder that are treated with herbal tinctures are urinary frequency disorders such as urgency incontinence, nocturia, and frequency.

Herbal tinctures like Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) and Corn Silk (Zea mays) have been traditionally used to soothe the bladder and reduce symptoms of these conditions.

These herbal remedies may help alleviate discomfort, frequency, and urgency by relaxing the urinary tract muscles and reducing inflammation.