Dear Bob Liebert,

I have been treating aggressive bladder cancer for about 18 months. I have had two surgical removals of tumor mass and have been taking healing teas, herbs and tinctures. My last visit to the urologist in November,2002 I was experiencing some bleeding and was told that my bladder was now quite healthy with the exception of a small remaining tumor that was bleeding. He recommended that I have the tumor removed but I declined. In the last stage of healing is it normal to experience bleeding ? It is sometimes rather heavy. This information would sure ease my mind and I am sure would assist others to know that you can save your bladder with alternatives.

Signed,
David

Dear Friend,

Please see the article "Herbs and Cancer" in our Featured Herbs section for recommendations for a basic herbal cancer prevention program. A couple of herbs that are very good tonics for the bladder are Gravel Root and Eryngium, with Eryngium having a traditional reputation for use in bladder cancer. For hematuria in the bladder the herbs traditionally used are the extracts of Alum Root, Shepherd's Purse and/or Witch Hazel. A good program would include Gravel Root, Eryngium and one of the herbs for bleeding. Marshmallow Root tea should be drunk at the same time for its demulcent, soothing effect on tissue.

You can buy these herbs and many more in the Formula and Single Herb sections of the Teeter Creek Herb website. Herbs that don't appear in the Formula or Single Herb lists can usually be requested in the "Message" section at the bottom of the order page.

The information expressed is the personal observations of Herbalist Bob Liebert based on his personal experience and his studies of folk and traditional herbalism. These observations are not meant to be a substitute for qualified medical diagnosis and treatment. Uses of many of the herbs have not been scientifically verified.