An enlarged prostate, also known as Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH), causes problems because it presses on the urethra. It usually affects men ages 50 and over. The condition is linked to changes in hormonal levels that naturally occur as a man ages. The resulting problem is the growth of glandular tissue of the prostate in the presence of testosterone. Conventional treatments include drugs and surgery. Be sure to advise your doctor of any natural supplements you are taking.
Important Information About Symptoms
When the prostate first begins to become enlarged, there may be no symptoms at all. As it continues to grow, a man may have difficulty urinating or experience frequent urination, including during the middle of the night. Immobility, cold weather, and alcohol consumption can aggravate these symptoms. If the condition gets worse, having an orgasm can be difficult to achieve. Additionally, one can experience pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine, pain in the lower back, bladder infections, and kidney problems. These symptoms are also seen in men with prostate cancer, so be sure to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of these problems.
Herbal Treatments
Papain alleviates acute inflammation of the prostate. Take 500mg daily for no longer than two weeks. A combination of saw palmetto, pygeum and zinc picolinate lessens inflammation and restores normal urine flow. Take the following doses twice daily. They do not all need to be taken together at the same time. Take 160mg of saw palmetto. Use 100mg each of pygeum and zinc picolinate. Stinging nettle root stops the action of growth hormone on the prostate and can help stabilize urine flow. Take 1,500mg daily.
Rarely, people have reported trouble getting erections while taking saw palmetto and pygeum. If this happens, you can substitute micronized pollen instead at 3,000 to 4,000mg daily.
Traditional Chinese Formulas
There are three traditional Chinese formulas which are widely used to treat an enlarged prostate.
Eight Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia alleviates difficulty urinating. Gentiana Longdancao Decoction to Drain the Liver reduces incontinence caused by BPH. It can also alleviate symptoms sometimes experienced by those who have enlarged prostate such as headache, dizziness, and emotional distress. Sairei-to establishes normal urination. It is especially useful after prostate surgery.
Herbs to Avoid
Men who have an enlarged prostate should avoid the following herbs because they can stimulate hormone production in men with this condition in a way that can aggravate BPH. They include American ginseng, cinnamon, cordyceps, ephedra, epimedium, sarsaparilla and Siberian ginseng.
Other Suggestions
Stay well hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water daily. Dehydration put stress on the prostate gland. Consume unsweetened cranberry juice; it can help prevent urinary tract infections. There are many anecdotal reports that pumpkin seeds can help restore the normal flow of urine, but it has not been extensively studied.
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