Most men over the age of 40 develop an enlarged prostate leading to difficult urination, hypersensitivity of the bladder or a weak stream of urine. The clinical term benign prostatic hypertrophy, also known as BPH, refers to a hormone-related increase in prostate tissue production that squeezes the urethra passing through the gland causing symptoms. Pharmacological treatment is focused on improving quality of life by either reducing the size of the prostate or relaxing the muscles inside the gland to relieve pressure. For many men with mild to moderate BPH, herbal medicine may offer effective treatment options as well.
Serenoa Repens
Serenoa repens, also known as Saw Palmetto, is a well-known medicinal herb in America found growing naturally in the tropical climate from South Carolina to Florida. Its effectiveness in BPH may be due to its multiple actions against an enlarging prostate. Verified in the 1984 "Journal of Steroid Biochemistry," Saw Palmetto blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT, a hormone made from testosterone in the prostate that stimulates tissue production. Additionally, as cited in 1992 by "European Urology," Saw Palmetto's anti-estrogenic effects allow for proper elimination of testosterone from the prostate which prevents build-up and conversion to more DHT.
Over-the-counter substances should not be experimented with before obtaining a proper diagnosis and recommendation from a doctor first.
Pygeum Africanum
Traditional healers have used the bark of the African plum tree, known as Pygeum, for thousands of years to treat bladder disorders and urination problems associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy. The National Institutes of Health reports several corroborating studies indicating a significant reduction of symptoms including urinary hesitancy, frequency and nighttime voiding. Studies conducted used 75 to 200mg standardized pygeum extract daily. Evidence does not indicate a reversal of the disease process using pygeum beyond symptom relief. Ongoing research is still being conducted, and one should consult with a licensed physician about the most appropriate treatment options.
Cernilton
Cernilton, an extract of pollen, has an overall success rate in patients with BPH of over 70 percent according to a 1990 study in the "British Journal or Urology." A reduction in both day and nighttime urinary frequency and reduced residual urine volume in the bladder were noted. Its actions include mild anti-inflammatory activity and a contractile effect on the bladder muscles while simultaneously relaxing the urethra. Research from a 1995 journal article in "The Prostate" identified a substance in Cernilton that reduced the size of the prostate.
It is recommended to never take herbs in combination with other herbs or pharmaceuticals without permission from a licensed practitioner.
Urtica Dioica
Extracts of stinging nettle root, Urtica dioica, have also been shown effective in reducing symptoms of BPH. In 2007, the Journal "Phytomedicine" conducted a comprehensive review of studies using Urtica in cases of BPH. Its actions indicate anti-inflammatory activity as well as inhibition of enzymes related to cell proliferation leading to enlargement of the prostate. Immune supportive constituents against viruses and fungi were also reported. Its safety and low level of toxicity were verified adding to its appeal, although more confirmatory evidence is necessary before recommending this herb as a treatment for the condition.
References
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine Second Edition;" Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; Michael T. Murray, ND, Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr, ND; 1999
- "Journal of Steroid Biochemistry;" Inhibition of Androgen Metabolism and Binding by a Liposterolic Extract of Serenoa Repens B in Human Foreskin Fibroblasts; C. Sultan, A. Terraza, C. Devillier et al; 1984
- "European Urology;" Evidence That Serenoa Repens Displays Anti-Estrogenic Activity in Prostatic Tissue of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy; F. Di Silverio, G. D'Eramo , C. Lubrano; 1992
- Medline Plus: Pygeum (Prunus africcanum, Pygeum africanum)
- "International Journal of Nephrology and Urology;" Usefulness of Cernilton in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; S. Dutkiewicz; 1996
