The prostate is a male gland about the size of a large walnut, nestled under the bladder. Problems with the prostate can range from difficulty urinating to prostate cancer, one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men, the Mayo Clinic says. Taking a proactive approach to prostate health, men can utilize a variety of herbs and herbal remedies to maintain prostate health and wellness. Always discuss the use of natural herbs or supplements with your doctor, especially if you're currently taking medications.
Saw Plametto
Saw palmetto is known for its ability to inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone, more commonly known as DHT. DHT is a byproduct of testosterone that promotes prostate cell growth or multiplication, eHealthMD says. Such cell growth often leads to an enlarged prostate. Patients diagnosed with an enlarged prostate may take saw palmetto supplements for about five weeks with beneficial results, says Dr. Laurance Johnston, Ph.D. of Natural Prostate Health.
Saw palmetto is known to contain beta sitosterol, which helps prevent the production of DHT, according to the Herbal Supplements Guide. Taking the herb may help shrink an enlarged prostate and restore normal urinary function.
Pygeum
Pygeum is a natural herb indigenous to Africa, derived from tree bark of the African Plum. The herb is often used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy--more commonly known as BPH or enlarged prostate--as well as help reduce the severity of an enlarged prostate caused by high levels of DHT, says Natural Prostate Health. Pygeum helps reduce inflammation and promote urine flow and volume, as well as relieve pain while urinating, the National Institutes of Health says. In addition to reducing inflammation of the prostate, the herb is also known to increase libido and offer a variety of anti-inflammatory effects on other areas of the body, says Inner Self.
Red Clover
Red clover is a rich source of antioxidants that may help reduce the chance of contracting some cancers, says the Herbal Supplements Guide. Red clover, like saw palmetto, reduces the production of DHT, which in turn keeps the prostate a normal size. Red clover may be taken in tablet or capsule form. Red clover produces an isoflavonoid extract that offers health benefits to the male prostate and for liver function, says Natural News. Men diagnosed with high levels of prostate-specific antigen, also known as PSA, often see their sexual performance affected. High PSA levels may contribute to prostate enlargement.
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