The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located at the base of the bladder in men. The prostate gland's main role is to manufacture the liquid component of semen. The prostate gland can become infected, leading to a condition known as prostatitis. Two forms of prosatitis exist: acute bacterial prostatitis and chronic bacterial prostatitis. A prostate infection is usually treated with antibiotics. Herbs may be used to alleviate symptoms of a prostate infection; however, scientific evidence to support their use is limited.
Garlic
Garlic possesses potent anti-bacterial properties and may be a useful treatment for bacterial prostatitis, according to The Prostatitis Foundation. It may also be combined with echinacea and goldenseal to boost antimicrobial activity. The Prostatitis Foundation recommends chewing three cloves, two to four times a day. Alternatively, you can take a garlic supplement. MedlinePlus notes that garlic is generally safe for most people but it may cause side effects including nausea, bad breath and diarrhea.
Stinging Nettle
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that stinging nettle may help maintain prostate health though there is no scientific evidence to show it can cure a prostate infection. Stinging nettle is generally well-tolerated although it may cause side effects including fluid retention, rash and a stomach upset. Do not use stinging nettle if you take antihypertensives, antiinflammatories, diabetes drugs, diuretics or anticoagulants as it may interfere with their efficacy.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal contains antiseptic properties and is sometimes used alongside saw palmetto and echinacea to treat prostatitis. The roots of the goldenseal plant are used to prepare teas, capsules and tablets. Goldenseal should only be used for short periods and only at the recommended dose, according to The Prostatitis Foundation. There is limited data examining the effects of long-term use of goldenseal, notes the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Goldenseal may affect the way some drugs work and may cause nausea and vomiting.
