The prostate is a gland that surrounds the male urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. Men may experience an enlargement of the prostate, called BPH, as they age; symptoms may begin around age 50 and may progress with each passing year. Someone who has BPH--benign prostatic hyperplasia--may have difficulty passing urine, and pain upon urination due to the inflammation. Certain herbs have been proven to be beneficial to the prostate, including saw palmetto, stinging nettle and a variety of essential oils.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is an herb indigenous to the southeastern region of the United States. The fruit of the saw palmetto tree has been used in Native American medicinal traditions in Florida, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. NCCAM reports the most common traditional or anecdotal usage of the herb is to ease urinary symptoms, including those that correspond to prostate problems, but acknowledges that strong scientific evidence is somewhat lacking. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, explains that the plant acts in the same manner as several medications that are used to treat BPH, and helps the inner lining of the prostate shrink over time.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle, a plant native to Europe, has been used for centuries to treat joint pain and eczema; due to its diuretic properties, it has also been used to increase urine output. Men who have prostate troubles often experience a reduced urine output and cannot empty their bladders completely. The UMMC explains that because stinging nettle is a natural diuretic, the herb can help alleviate some of the urinary difficulties that are consistent with prostate enlargement. Stinging nettle can also slow the rate of growth of the prostate, which can relieve symptoms as well. The herbal remedy is available as a dried root or leaves that can be brewed into a tea, or as a liquid tincture that is combined with water.
Pygeum
Pygeum is an oil made from the bark of the African plum tree--sometimes called the African prune tree--and is another herb that can be beneficial for prostate health. The UMMC reports that doses of 75 to 200 mg of pygeum daily can lead to a decrease in nighttime urination and can increase the flow of urine that may be impeded due to an enlarged prostate.
Essential Oils
Essential oils--oils extracted from herbs--may be used as a topical treatment for prostate inflammation, according to the Rodale book "Herbs for Health and Healing." Many plants used in alternative medicine are used because they possess natural anti-inflammatory characteristics. Combining the oils of lavender, chamomile, rosemary and St. John's wort can increase blood circulation and reduce inflammation of the prostate. The Rodale publication suggests applying essential oils to the area underneath the scrotum one to two times daily to improve prostate health.
