Treat bladder problems with home remedies

The good news: bladder problems aren't new — even the ancient Egyptians developed remedies to deal with it. Read on for a variety of time-tested teas, easy to make at home, that will help strengthen your bladder muscles.

Do you map out the bathrooms in the mall before you get there? Or avoid sneezing or laughing because you're not sure you'll stay dry? You're most likely suffering from bladder weakness or incontinence.

Both men and women suffer from this sometimes embarrassing condition, but the physical stresses of childbirth, combined with a decrease in estrogen at menopause, make women three times more susceptible.

Frequently, there's a psychological component to a weak bladder, so stress-reduction programs such as yoga or autogenic training may help.

• Blueberry tea is a tried and true remedy for a weak bladder. Mix 20 grams (two to three ounces) of blueberry leaves with about 250 millilitres (one cup) of water and drink three times a day. Along with tasting great, it's also an effective and easy-to-make treatment.
• St. John's wort sweetened with honey can ease tension, which may in turn help with incontinence. Drink 250 millilitres (one cup) twice a day for five weeks.
• For an effective three-week bladder cure, drink this tea three times a day: mix 50 grams (one and a half ounces) of lady's mantle, 30 grams (one ounce) of fireweed and 20 grams (two to three ounces) of fennel seeds. Pour 250 millilitres (one cup) of boiling water over five millilitres (one teaspoon) of this mixture and steep for 10 minutes before drinking.
• Never underestimate the healing power of heat. Our grandmothers were familiar with its soothing properties and regularly took sitz baths with hay flowers, or placed a hot water bottle on their lower abdomen at bedtime. Both are simple, effective and affordable remedies that still work today and don't have any negative side effects.