Urinary incontinence can be difficult and embarrassing to deal with. Sometimes, people require surgery or intense physical therapy in order to overcome their incontinence. But before you decide to go this route, it is often worth trying a gentler, more natural approach. Here are a couple of herbs that may help with urinary incontinence if taken regularly.

Mullein

Mullein is a relatively easy herb to find because it is used to manage a wide variety of feminine health problems, such as menopause symptoms and low estrogen levels. It is a flowering plant that grows in the mountains of the middle east. Mullein is thought to work largely by strengthening muscle contractions. As such, it can also help ease urinary incontinence, especially in women who are struggling with this issue after giving birth or as they enter menopause. If you decide to try mullein, make sure you take it for a few days in a row before deciding whether or not it is working for you. The herbs may take several days to build up in your system to the degree that they affect the contraction power of your bladder sphincter, which is the main muscle that controls the flow of urine.

Buchu

Buchu is an herb that is native to South Africa. It tends to work well if your incontinence is accompanied by a frequent desire to urinate. If you often feel like you have to urinate, but when you do, only a few drops come out, then buchu is a good herb to try. It helps reduce inflammation in and around the bladder tissue. Some people notice a difference after just one dose, but the effects should build as you continue to take buchu regularly.

Horsetails

Horsetails are tall, fern-like plants that grow in North America. They contain lots of silica. Over time, consuming more silica can lead to stronger connective tissue, which could help thwart urinary incontinence. Don't expect instant relief with horsetails. It may take a few months for the silica content to lead to an improvement in connective tissue strength and less urinary leakage. Still, the benefits are worth sticking with horsetail supplements for a while. Consider taking this herb for long-term relief and another, like mullein, for shorter-term relief.

If you struggle with urinary incontinence, herbs are a good first remedy to try. Give them a chance, but don't hesitate to make an appointment with a doctor or naturopath if you need more help with incontinence treatments.