Botanical medicines for the urinary tract

World J Urol. 2002 Nov;20(5):285-93. doi: 10.1007/s00345-002-0293-0. Epub 2002 Oct 17.

Abstract

Four important categories of urologic herbs, their history, and modern scientific investigations regarding them are reviewed. Botanical diuretics are discussed with a focus on Solidago spp (goldenrod) herb, Levisticum officinale (lovage) root, Petroselinum crispus (parsley) fruit, and Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) herb. Urinary antiseptic and anti-adhesion herbs, particularly Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (uva-uri) leaf, Juniperus spp (juniper) leaf, and Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) fruit are reviewed. The antinephrotoxic botanicals Rheum palmatum (Chinese rhubarb) root and Lespedeza capitata (round-head lespedeza) herb are surveyed, followed by herbs for symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, most notably Serenoa repens (saw palmetto) fruit, Urtica dioica root, and Prunus africana (pygeum) bark.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Plant Preparations / therapeutic use*
  • Urologic Diseases / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Plant Preparations