Herbs for Incontinence?
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Name not given
Posted on: June 19, 2000

What herbs can be used to cure incontinence?

Incontinence usually refers to the inability to hold back urine, though it may also refer to bowel movements. Assuming you are asking about urinary incontinence in adults, it can be caused by laxity of the pelvic organs, by damage to the nerves in the spinal cord or by enlargement of other pelvic organs, causing pressure on the bladder. Smoking is a major cause of lax muscles resulting in incontinence.

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) helps to strengthen the urinary system. Its soothing, astringent and diuretic actions contribute to healing urinary tract infections that may cause incontinence. Horsetail must not be taken for longer that one month. If you need to continue with this medication, take a break for one week before continuing.

An astringent such as Yarrow, Agrimony or Ladies Mantle can help to tighten up loose membranes in the pelvic area.

Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) are beneficial for tightening up lax pelvic muscles, including the muscles that stop urination. Ask your health care provider to give you information on these exercises.

Drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day helps to flush out toxins.

Avoid caffeine, chocolate and smoking, which aggravate the problem.

Please see the information for Urinary Tract Infection on our website at http://www.richters.com. Choose "Q&A" from the main menu, then choose "Medicinal Herbs and Their Uses", and look for the item "Urinary Tract Infection".

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