Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Couch grass (Elymus repens, formerly Agropyron repens) has a long history of traditional use for various urinary tract ailments, including bladder infections (cystitis). In European herbal medicine, the rhizomes have been used as a mild diuretic and demulcent, believed to soothe inflamed mucous membranes of the urinary tract and promote urine flow. Historical texts from the 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as folk medicine traditions, frequently mention couch grass as an “irritation-soothing” remedy for cystitis and other urinary discomforts.

Modern scientific validation for these effects is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that couch grass extracts may have mild anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The primary active constituents thought to contribute to its traditional use include polysaccharides, saponins, and volatile oils, which may exert soothing effects or increase urine output. However, there is little direct evidence supporting its effectiveness specifically against the pathogens responsible for bladder infections.

Overall, while couch grass is widely used in traditional herbal medicine for bladder infections, and some pharmacological activities are plausible, there is insufficient high-quality clinical research to strongly support its efficacy. Thus, its use for bladder infections is justified primarily by tradition rather than strong scientific evidence.

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