|
Uva-Ursi leaf
(Arctostaphylos uva ursi) * |
Also known as
Bearberry, this herb has along history of use for urinary tract
infections. A source of the phytochemical arbutin, it is metabolized
by the kidneys and excreted as hydroquinone. Hydropuinone is an
active antimicrobial especially in alkaline urine. Uva-Ursi is
contraindicated for pregnant women. |
|
Cleavers fresh
herb
(Galium aparine) * |
A mild but
effective medicine with activity focused on the genito-urinary tract
and lymphatics. Cleavers is a non-irritating diuretic used for
irritation and inflammation of the bladder, urethra, vas deferens
and spermatic cord. It is useful for cystitis, benign prostatic
hypertrophy, prostatitis, urethritis and interstitial cystitis.
Cleavers is also effective for enlarged lymph nodes in children |
|
Hydrangea root
(Hydrangea arborescens) * |
A wild
relative of the common garden shrub the showy Hydrangea. The root of
this plant is indicated for urethritis or cystitis with pain, pain
associated with low grade nephritis and to help the pain and ease
the passing of urinary calculi (gravel).
|
|
Corn Silk
fresh silk
(Zea mays) * |
A soothing,
slightly antiseptic diuretic used for inflammation of the urinary
tract. It combines well with more active antiseptic diuretics in
nephritis, urethritis and cystitis. Use with Ganoderma, Eryngo and
Agrimony for interstitial cystitis.
|
|
Agrimony fresh
herb
(Agrimonia eupatorium) * |
Shows specific
activity for the urinary tract, especially the bladder, urethra and
cystic ducts. It is used for inflammation, irritation and
burning/scalding urine found in cystitis, urethritis, and
interstitial cystitis. It is also soothing to inflammation of the
bile ducts and is a mild liver tonic. |
|
Oregon Grape
root
(Mahonia nervosa) * |
A good
digestive bitter, liver tonic and cholagogue used to increase
digestion and absorption especially of fats and oils. It is
indicated for dyspepsia, dysbiosis, jaundice, elevated bilirubin
levels, and poor bile formation. Oregon Grape is also
anti-bacterial/fungal/viral so it is indicated for urinary tract
infections, strep and staph infections, intestinal viruses and skin
conditions such as psoriasis and acne.
|
|
Bibliography: |
Bartram, T.
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, Grace Pub., 1995.
Boscowitz,
MD,
G. Extracts from Lectures on Therapeutics,
Eclectic
Medical College, NY, 1910.
Gruenwald, J. PDR for Herbal Medicines, Medical Economic
Co.,
1998.
Moore,
M. Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West, Red Crane, 1993.
Winston, D. Herbal Therapeutics Materia Medica notes, HTSBM,
1982-1999. |
|
*Herbal
Therapeutics Research Library
Author: David Winston (RH) AHG
©2007
Herbal Therapeutics Research Library. All rights reserved |
Disclaimer: The information on
historical, ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutic uses of herbs and
traditional formulas contained herein is based on the experience and
research of the author. It is not intended as a substitute for
consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Any
attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should be done under the
direction of a health care professional. The publisher and author
are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences
resulting from the use of any of the information discussed. Should
you have any questions concerning the appropriateness of any
preparation mentioned, the author strongly suggests consulting a
professional health care advisor. |