Herbs for an Enlarged Prostate

A male reproductive gland surrounding the urethra, the prostate is responsible for producing semen. Enlargement of the prostate gland (often referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) occurs in many men as they get older.

Although it can lead to some complications involving the bladder, an enlarged prostate won't increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate

When tissues in the prostate enlarge, they may apply pressure to the urethra and partially block urine flow. This may trigger the following symptoms:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine stream
• Inability to urinate
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Incomplete emptying of the bladder
• Incontinence
• Frequent urination at nighttime
• Pain with urination

Less than half of men with BPH show symptoms.

Herbs for Prostate Health

So far, scientific support for the claim that any herb can improve prostate health is lacking. 

1) Saw Palmetto

In a report published in 2000, researchers reviewed 11 clinical trials and concluded that treatment with saw palmetto extract can help improve peak urinary flow rate and reduce patients' need to awake at night in order to urinate. However, a research review from 2009 deemed saw palmetto no more effective than placebo for treatment of BPH-related urinary symptoms.

2) Pygeum

Pygeum (a remedy sourced from the bark of the African plum tree) may be a useful treatment option for men with lower urinary symptoms resulting from BPH, according to a 2002 analysis of 18 clinical trials. However, the investigators caution that the reviewed studies were small in size, were of short duration, and using varied doses and preparations of pygeum.

Treatment

Some men experience BPH-related complications such as bladder stones, bladder damage, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage. In these cases, healthcare providers may pursue treatment with medication, surgery, and non-surgical therapies.

In other cases, however, self-care should suffice in the treatment of BPH.

Home Remedies

Your healthcare provider may suggest using the following self-care strategies to manage your BPH symptoms:

• Urinating as soon as you get the urge
• Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, especially at night
• Avoiding drinking fluids within two hours of bedtime
• Getting regular exercise
• Decreasing your stress with the help of practices like yoga and meditation

You may also need to limit your use of over-the-counter cold and sinus medications containing decongestants or antihistamines, both of which may aggravate your symptoms. Certain natural remedies for cold and sinus problems may help reduce your need for such medications.

Using Natural Remedies 

Due to the lack of supporting research, it's too soon to alternative medicine for an enlarged prostate. If you're considering using it, talk to your healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks and benefits. Keep in mind that alternative medicine should not be used as a substitute for standard care. Self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.