5 Shares

Interstitial cystitis is a condition in which people suffer from inflammation in the tissues of the bladder wall. It causes discomfort coupled with a lot of pain in the bladder. It is mostly caused due to Escherichia Coli, a bacterium that settles on the bladder lining. There are a number of herbal remedies one can try to find relief from cystitis.

There are many other ways for curing this disorder, but herbal remedies are known to be the best option as they are 100% safe and don’t includes any side-effect.

Various Herbal remedies For Interstitial Cystitis

Plantain

A member of the Plantaginaceae family, Plantain is a perennial weed that can be found in meadows or even by roadsides. This herb is also known by the name Plantago Major. It is nutritious and has a slightly bitter, salty and mucilaginous taste.

It helps treat difficult and painful urination (dysuria condition) which is one of the major problems associated with interstitial cystitis. Plantain is an anti-bacterial, anti-stringent, antiseptic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory herb that heals irritated tissue.

Kava Kava

Kava Kava is basically a tall shrub that grows in the islands of the Pacific Ocean. It is also known as Piper Methysticum and is used to treat various health problems. It possesses a pungent, sharp and tongue numbing taste.

To cure interstitial cystitis, we use this herb’s root. It is an anti-spasmodic, a sedative, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory in nature that helps reduce spasms and all the pain that is caused due to interstitial cystitis.

Saw Palmetto

Also known as Serenora repens, Saw Palmetto resembles a small palm tree and is native to the eastern United States of America. It is especially used to reduce urinary tract problems, among other problems.

The whole ripe fruit of the Saw Palmetto is used and has a soapy, sweet taste with drying tendencies. It is an anti-inflammatory, diuretic and antispasmodic that is extremely useful in curing interstitial cystitis. However, pregnant women are strictly advised not to consume this herb.

Marshmallow Root

Also known as Althaea Officinalis, marshmallow root tea soothes the bladder. It provides the bladder with a coating that is formed due to the mucilage found in the herb. Although mallow flowers, leaves, syrup and root can be used, supplements are made from the dried leaves and root.

Marshmallow root inhibits mucociliary activity, relieves local irritation, acts as an anti-inflammatory and is also an immune stimulant. You can use marshmallow root in the form of capsules, extract, tablets, in powder form and as a tea.

Licorice Root

Licorice root is biologically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. It works in a manner similar to that of marshmallow root. It provides a calming effect and also a soothing coating to the bladder wall. It has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, has anti-depressant compounds, which can increase mucus secreting cells, help to reduce pain and stimulate the production of interferon.

Patients who are pregnant, have severe menstrual problems, and are on heart medication should not consume licorice root. Licorice could lead to a deficiency of potassium in the blood and also hypertension. Licorice is also not to be consumed in combination with birth control and oral contraceptive pills as it may lead to high blood pressure.