Nocturnal Enuresis (Bed-Wetting) – Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Nocturnal Enuresis is defined as bed-wetting which occurs in children aged 5 years or more, with at least 1-2 episodes per week over at least a three month period. Nocturnal enuresis may be primary or secondary. Most children with bed-wetting who are 7 years or younger, usually outgrow this condition and hence, do not require any treatment. Children more than 8 years of age who have nocturnal enuresis may require treatment, since it can prove to be embarrassing to the child and his / her parents, and may affect the child's academic performance and social relations with others.

Nocturnal enuresis is termed as "Shayya Mootra" in Ayurveda. Most Ayurvedic doctors
Treat this condition according to the associated conditions or causes. Those with a tendency to constipation are given Arogyavardhini and Chandraprabha vati. Krumimudgar ras or Krumikuthar ras are given when there is a history of, or signs of worms. For generalized weakness, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) kalpa or Shatavari Ghruta is used orally and Mahanarayan oil is used for massaging the body. Children having a history of loss of appetite, indigestion and loose motions are given Sanjeevani vati (containing mainly Semicarpus anacardium) and Pippalyadi decoction (containing primarily Piper longum). Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Ajvayan (Hyoscyamus niger), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Garlic, Ginger, Jeera (Cuminum cyminum), Pudina (Mentha spicata) and Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) are regularly used in the daily diet. Urinary tract infection is treated with drugs like Gokshuradi Guggulu. Herbal medicines like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) and Shankapushpi (Consecora decussata) are used to reduce stress.

Several herbal combinations are available which improve the neuro-muscular tone and strength and thus increase the retention capacity of the urinary bladder. Normally, with these medicines, most children get cured within 3 – 4 months of treatment. A selected few may require one or two additional courses of shorter duration.

It is advisable to have an early dinner, and to stop liquid take from two hours before going to bed. The child should be encouraged to empty the bladder at frequent intervals before sleeping. The child should also be encouraged to be free from stress and anxiety. Timely treatment should be given for any underlying disease, if found present.

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