Benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, is an enlargement of the prostate commonly suffered by men over 60 years old. Typical symptoms include, weak urine stream, frequent urination, not being able to fully empty the bladder, increased need to urinate at night and blood in the urine. According to MayoClinic.com, herbal treatments may help relieve symptoms caused by BPH. Always consult a doctor before taking any remedy, as they may increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with other medications.
Beta Sitosterols
According to the University of Maryland, beta-sitosterols are found in plants and are a compound similar to cholesterol. In a study published in a 1997 issue of the "British Journal of Urology," researchers studied the effect of beta-sitosterol on patients suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia. The team found that 130mg of beta-sitosterol over a 6 months period, significantly improved the flow rate of urine and the ability to empty the bladder fully. They therefore concluded that beta-sitosterol is an effective option in the treatment of BPH.
Beta-sitosterols can be found in pumpkin seeds, fortified margarine, and supplements. BPH sufferers should consult with a doctor before taking beta-sitosterols.
Pygeum
According to the University of Michigan, pygeum is approved as a remedy for BPH in Germany, France, and Italy. Pygeum contains phytosterols, which have anti-inflammatory properties, ferulic esters, which help reduce cholesterol deposits and pentacyclic triterpenoids, which have a diuretic action.
In a study published in a 1998 issue of "Current Medical Research and Opinion," researchers studied the therapeutic use of Pygeum africanum, on men aged between 50 and 75 years old with BPH. The team found that 50mg of Pygeum africanum extract twice a day for two months significantly reduced nocturnal frequency and improved urinary flow and volume. A doctor should be consulted before taking any supplements containing Pygeum.
Saw Palmetto
The University of Maryland explain that saw palmetto appears to work by preventing testosterone from being converted into dihydrotestosterone in the body. Dihydrotestosterone may cause prostate growth.
In a study published in a 1998 issue of the "The Journal of the American Medical Association" the use of saw palmetto in men with BPH was reviewed. The team looked at 18 studies involving 2939 men. The team concluded that saw palmetto improved urinary tract symptoms and urinary flow in men with BPH. The University of Maryland recommend a saw palmetto supplement that has been standardized to contain 85 percent to 95 percent fatty acids and sterols. Talk to your doctor if you want to try saw palmetto for your BPH symptoms.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Prostate gland enlargement
- University of Maryland: Benign prostatic hyperplasia
- "British Journal of Urology": A multicentric, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of beta-sitosterol (phytosterol) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: Klippel KF, Hiltl DM, Schipp B: 1997
- University of Michigan: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
- "Current Medical Research and Opinion": Efficacy and acceptability of tadenan (Pygeum africanum extract) in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): a multicentre trial in central Europe.Breza J, Dzurny O, Borowka A, et al : 1998.
