Systematic absorption is therefore limited. This seems to protect the bladder wall from acid burn from urine. Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice involving needles, reduce pain and urinary frequency while increasing a sense of well-being and relaxation. There is a wide variation in patient response to this treatment. Some find significant improvement, while others find none at all.
Some patients find relief from a variety of Chinese herbs.
Dr. Ching Yao Shi, a licensed acupuncturist in Philadelphia who also holds an MD degree, created a tea made from a special blend of herbs to help IC patients. Patients who drink at least one glass a day report some improvement. For example, Pycnogenol, a bioflavonoid which is produced from grape pips or or the bark of the French Maritime pine, is used. However, no scientific research has been conducted to examine effectiveness or long term effects of this supplement. The herb, marshmallow root tea is believed to provide a soothing coating to the bladder because of the mucilage found in the plant.