What Is the Urinary Microbiome? A Plain-English Primer
Urine was once thought to be sterile. Here is what researchers now understand about the bacteria of the urinary tract, and why women hear so much about Lactobacillus.
In this article
Walk down any supplement aisle and you'll see the same plant names on urinary-support labels. FemiCore's formula includes four of them. Here is a balanced look at each one: what it is, how it's traditionally used, and what to check before taking it.
Cranberry extract
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is the best-known urinary-support botanical. Its interest centres on compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs). Research on cranberry products has produced mixed results, and quality varies widely between products. It is generally well tolerated, but people taking warfarin should speak to their doctor, and very large amounts may not suit people with a history of kidney stones.
Bearberry (uva ursi)
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is a low evergreen shrub whose leaves have long been used in European herbal practice for the urinary tract. Health authorities generally advise using bearberry only for short periods and not during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and not for children. If you plan to take any bearberry-containing product long term, discuss it with a healthcare professional.
Berberine
Berberine is a bright yellow compound found in plants such as barberry, goldenseal and Oregon grape. It has become a popular supplement ingredient in its own right. Berberine is known to interact with a number of medications, including some diabetes and blood-pressure drugs and medicines processed by certain liver enzymes. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always check with your pharmacist if you take prescription medicines.
Mimosa Pudica
Mimosa pudica, the “sensitive plant”, is famous for folding its leaves when touched. Its seeds and other parts have a history of use in traditional Ayurvedic preparations. Human research on it is limited, so treat any strong claims with caution.
Amounts matter. FemiCore's seller lists these botanicals by name but does not publish the amount of each on its website. Read the Supplement Facts panel on your bottle and show it to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any health conditions.
The probiotic side
Besides the four botanicals, FemiCore includes five Lactobacillus strains. Read our microbiome balance guide for more on them.
The bottom line
Each of these botanicals has a long history of traditional use, and they are combined in many women's urinary-support formulas. None of them replaces medical care. Use them as part of a healthy routine, follow label directions, and check for interactions. See the full FemiCore ingredient list.
This article is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your own situation.
