Ashwagandha

Benefits and boundless potential.

Have you ever considered using ashwagandha for Interstitial Cystitis (IC)? Also known as Bladder Pain Syndrome, IC/BPS is a chronic condition that affects millions with painful symptoms. While traditional treatments exist, researchers have been looking into the benefits of an ancient herb called ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for managing IC symptoms.

Ashwagandha is good for easing stress, but many don’t know about how helpful it can be for your overall health. Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could do wonders for IC management.

In this article, we’ll explore how ashwagandha and IC could work well together for people looking for alternative treatments.

All about glucosamine.

Listen to Femetry’s own Dr. Victoria Scott discuss the many benefits of glucosamine.

Difficulties living with IC.

Before exploring the potential benefits of glucosamine, it’s crucial to understand the basics of IC.

Common symptoms of IC include:

Bladder and pelvic pain
Urinary urgency, or a sudden, strong urge to urinate
Urinary frequency, or needing to urinate many times
Nocturia, or frequent urination at night

The exact cause remains unknown, making treatment and diagnosis challenging. Often, patients explore treatment approaches such as lifestyle changes, pelvic floor physical therapy, and medications.

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a natural compound found in the cartilage of the body that helps build glycosaminoglycans, or GAGs. GAGs are instrumental for cellular communication. They help with the growth, adhesion, and repair of cells. The GAG layer also happens to make up the lining of the bladder wall and protects against bacterial adhesion.

As mentioned above, people traditionally associate glucosamine with joint health. Glucosamine is a popular dietary supplement used by people seeking comfort from joint swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. Glucosamine has the ability to support cartilage integrity, promote a healthy inflammatory response, and help with wound healing. This has prompted researchers to explore its potential benefits beyond joint health.

The effect of glucosamine.
Glucosamine works by providing the building blocks necessary for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans and hyaluronic acid. These are essential components of healthy cartilage and connective tissues.

In the context of IC, this mechanism could support the repair and maintenance of the bladder lining. Subsequently, glucosamine could soothe the irritation and discomfort associated with the condition.

Did you know…

Glucosamine could help hydrate the skin and help with the appearance of wrinkles.

How useful is glucosamine for IC?

While the cause of IC is unknown, one theory suggests a weakened bladder lining. If the bladder lining is weak or damaged, bacteria can stick to the walls and cause irritation or infection.

Researchers are hopeful that repairing the bladder lining could be helpful for IC management. That’s why glucosamine might hold promise for IC. Glucosamine has protective properties that nourish the cells in the bladder lining.

In a small study, researchers administered glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and other ingredients to IC patients, specifically targeting the irritated bladder. When the protective layer of the bladder is damaged, it cannot effectively protect itself from irritating substances.

These substances can enter the bladder tissue through urine. Studies show that these ingredients helped soothe discomfort by supporting that protective layer inside the bladder and easing discomfort.

Glucosamine for IC can be useful for its maintenance and repairing properties in the bladder. The body naturally converts glucosamine into the molecule that makes up the bladder lining, or GAG layer. Ideally, by adding this supplement into your diet, you can fortify and support your bladder.

IC treatment has an evolving landscape. Glucosamine, when added to a comprehensive treatment plan, could be helpful for your IC management.

For more information about our potent ingredients, visit our Ingredient Glossary.

FAQs

What herb is good for Interstitial Cystitis?
1. Many herbs offer great support for Interstitial Cystitis. Namely,
  - Ashwagandha for stress and inflammation support, as well as comfort.
  - Aloe for soothing bladder pain.
  - Pine bark for a healthy inflammatory response and soothing discomfort.
2. For information about powerful ingredients that are effective against IC/BPS but gentle on the body, read: What supplements are useful for IC?
Is it okay to take ashwagandha everyday?
1. Ashwagandha is generally safe to take every day. However, remember to consider any existing health issues and talk to a doctor if you have any worries.
Can ashwagandha calm Interstitial Cystitis?
1. Ashwagandha could calm symptoms associated with Interstitial Cystitis. People have used the herb for centuries as mood and stress support. As stress is often a trigger for IC flares, this herb could be beneficial in management. Ashwagandha also promotes a healthy inflammatory response, which could soothe bladder discomfort.
Does ashwagandha make you sleepy?
1. Ashwagandha may help with sleep and the overall quality of sleep. It does not cause drowsiness, but it offers stress and mood support. As a result, you may experience calmer breathing and a relaxed mind.
Is ashwagandha good for sex?
1. Ashwagandha has aphrodisiac properties and also promotes a calmer mood. Often, people with IC/BPS struggle with discomfort or worry about sexual intercourse. Since ashwagandha supports a relaxed mood and body, it can be good to take before sexual activity

Bladder Daily Comfort

Clinical doses of powerful ingredients, like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, quercetin, and ashwagandha. This multipoint formula supports the underlying causes of IC, supports a healthy inflammatory response and bladder lining, and helps to keep stress at bay.

Learn more