Prostatitis is a condition that affects the prostate, a walnut-sized gland found at the base of the bladder in men. Prostatitis, which occurs when the the prostate gland becomes inflamed, is characterized by symptoms including painful urination and difficulty in emptying the bladder. There are four types of prostatitis, two of which are caused by a bacterial infection. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial prostatitis, while alpha blockers may be used to relax the prostate muscle and alleviate discomfort in non-bacterial forms of the condition. Some herbs may alleviate prostatitis symptoms but scientific proof is limited.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto, also known as Serenoa repens, is traditionally used to treat non-bacterial forms of prostatitis. Saw palmetto is native to the eastern coast of the United States, and according to the National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine, it was used by the Seminole Tribe of Florida as a medicinal remedy. Although saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated, it may cause stomach discomfort and may interact with some medications. Consult your doctor before using saw palmetto to treat prostatitis.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle may help maintain prostate health although scientific evidence to support this is limited. This herb may exert its therapeutic effects by reducing inflammation and interrupting the transmission of pain signals and it may have a direct effect on cells of the prostate gland. Stinging nettle may be administered as a tea, as a tincture or as capsules. Stinging nettle is generally well tolerated but it may interact with other drugs including anticoagulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and diuretics. It may also increase the potency of drugs for high blood pressure and diabetes.
Horsetail
Horsetail, also known as bottle brush, is an herb that may alleviate prostatitis-associated urinary problems. However, MedlinePlus notes that there is insufficient evidence to support this. Horsetail should not be employed as a long-term treatment as it may cause potassium and thiamine deficiency. MedlinePlus notes that you should not take horsetail if you have diabetes as it may lower blood sugar levels. Consult a medical professional before using horsetail to treat prostatitis.
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