A.Vogel CystoforceTM Bladder Formula Traditional herbal medicine to relieve urinary tract irritations through its astringent and diuretic properties. Sugar-, gluten- and lactose-free Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) Echinacea (see Echinaforce’s information sheet) is known for its effect on the immune system. In this formula, it is used to increase the immune system's response and improve the body’s defense mechanisms. The German Commission E acknowledges its benefits in cases of: chronic infections of the lower urinary tract. Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) Uva Ursi (also known as Bearberry) acts as an anti-inflammatory for the urinary tract and as a mild diuretic. It also has the reputation of dissolving kidney stones (litholytic). This effect has been demonstrated in vivo.(1) Uva Ursi’s active ingredients are arbutine, methylarbutine, hydroquinones, flavonoids and tannins. Arbutine and hydroquinones have proven urinary antiseptic properties. Uva Ursi is effective against many of the bacteria responsible for urinary infections.(2) The German Commission E acknowledges its benefits in cases of: inflammatory disorders of the efferent urinary tract. Composition Each mL (20 drops) contains tinctures of: Medicinal ingredients: Fresh Wild Bearberry herb (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) (ratio 1:2) ...0.74 mL, equivalent to 359 mg fresh herb; Fresh organically grown Echinacea herb* (Echinacea purpurea) (ratio 1:2.6) ...0.26 mL, equivalent to 100.4 mg fresh herb. Non-medicinal ingredient: 1 mL of tincture contains 0.54 mL alcohol (ethanol). * Certified by Bio Suisse 1 mL = 20 drops. Dropper included. Dosage Adults: Take 40 drops with water, 3 times daily, 15 minutes before meals. Salivate before swallowing. Duration of use: Maximum 7 days. Historical overview Mild lower urinary tract infections or mild cystitis are common, unpleasant and painful infections that sometimes resolve themselves. However, in certains cases, it can lead to serious complications like pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidneys. Many herbs have diuretic, antibiotic or anti-inflammatory properties, but few have all the required virtues to adequately relieve urinary infections. As a result of this, the herbalist traditionally therefore uses a synergistic complex in which each herb is used for its own effect but where the whole is more effective than its individual components. Precautions, contraindications and interactions Do not use if you have gastrointestinal and/or kidney disorders or with supplements (or food) that produce acidic urine. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid taking in case of known allergy to any of the ingredients of the product. Consult a health care practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen. Do not use if security cap is broken. Keep out of the reach of children. References 1-Grases F, Melero G, Costa-Bauza A et al. Urolithiasis and phytotherapy. Int Urol Nephrol 1994;26(5):507-11. 2-Moskalenko P. Preliminary screening of Far-Eastern ethnomedicinal plants for antibacterial activity. J Ethnopharmacol 1986;15:231-59.