Prostate gland problems, such as enlargement, infection and cancer commonly affect men. Benign prostatic hypertrophy is the most common prostate problem and, according to the American Urological Association Foundation, over 90 percent of U.S. men will experience it by the age of 80. Herbal remedies can help reduce prostate maladies and consuming them as teas, or "herbal infusions," makes it easier for the body to absorb and assimilate the beneficial nutrients. If you suspect a prostate problem, consult your doctor before embarking on any herbal remedy.
Willow Herb
There are several species of willow herb with medicinal properties used for various conditions, including prostate problems. Small flowered willow herb, or Epilobium parviflorum, is the best known due to the work of German healer and author, Maria Treben, who recommended it for prostate growths and infections. Willow herb consists of the stem, leaves and flowers of the plant and is considered to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, according to "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine."
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto berries are obtained from small palm trees common in the southeastern United States. Saw palmetto is often taken as an extract, although the berries can be dried, crushed and used in herbal infusions also. Saw palmetto inhibits the synthesis of DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, which is a steroid hormone thought to cause benign prostate growth, according to a review article published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association."
Pygeum Bark
Pygeum is obtained from the bark of African evergreen trees. It is also often consumed as an extract and in conjunction with saw palmetto, but the bark can be used in herbal infusions. Pygeum bark also contains substances that inhibit DHT and prostaglandin synthesis and is used as an indigenous African remedy to treat prostate growth and infections.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a purple coneflower bush common to the prairies of the western United States. The flowers and roots of Echinacea can be consumed as a herbal infusion and are known to boost the immune system. According to "The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements and Herbs," echinacea simulates the synthesis of white blood cells such as lymphocytes, which can seek out and destroy harmful bacteria and viruses that can infect the prostate, causing prostatitis.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a perennial herb also native to North America. Goldenseal root was traditionally used as an external antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, although it can be ground along with its leaves to make an herbal infusion. Goldenseal is often used with other herbs to boost their medicinal effects, although it is considered a strong antiviral on its own. Bacterial infections are the most common cause of prostatitis, although sexually transmitted viruses are thought to cause up to 20 percent of cases, according to "Professional Guide to Diseases."
References
- UrologyHealth.org: American Urological Association Foundation: Prostate Diagnosis
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Journal of the American Medical Association"; Saw Palmetto Extracts for Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; T.J. Wilt et al.; June 1998
- "The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, and Herbs"; Nicola Reavley; 1999
- "Professional Guide to Diseases: Ninth Edition"; Springhouse Publishing; 2009
