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Herbs for Nocturia

Nocturia can occur at any age, and is classified as being awakened at night one or more times to urinate, according to the National Association for Continence (NAFC). It frequently occurs in people under 60 years old; it is commonly seen more in people as they age. Treatment normally includes behavioral or drug therapy, but several herbs may also help.

  1. Saw Palmetto

    • Saw palmetto is a berry used as an herbal treatment to reduce swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland, improving urine flow and decreasing nocturia in men, according to an article written by urologist Stephen W. Leslie. It is thought to work by acting as an anti-inflammatory decongestant and by altering cholesterol and testosterone metabolism.

    Grass Pollen

    • Grass pollen or secale cereale is an herbal treatment used to improve nocturia symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It reduces the amount of urine left over in the bladder after urination in both men and women, hence reducing the frequency of nighttime urination. Grass pollen also reduces the size of the prostate gland, which is a contributing factor in nocturia symptoms.

    Pygeum

    • According to Dr. Stephen W. Leslie, pygeum is an herbal treatment that reduces nocturia symptoms by improving the emptying rate of the bladder in both men and women. It is believed to work as an anti-inflammatory agent in men, decreasing the size of the prostate and fibrous tissue buildup in the bladder neck.

    Ginkgo Biloba

    • Ginkgo biloba is an herb that improves circulation and can be used to reduce prostate inflammation and swelling, according to Dr. Stephen W. Leslie.

    Stinging Nettle

    • Stingling nettle or urtica dioica is an herb rich in vitamin C and iron and is useful in the treatment of nocturia because it improves urinary flow and reduces residual urine and urinary frequency in both men and women, according to purplesage.org.uk. It is especially useful for menopausal women who experience hot flashes and nocturia. Fresh nettle can cause an extreme allergic reaction in some people, but when this herb is dried or cooked it is non-toxic and harmless.

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