Prostate cancer affects the gland responsible for manufacturing the liquid component of semen, and according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, is the third most common cause of cancer deaths in men. Around 90 percent of prostate cancer cases are successfully treated with surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Some herbs and supplements may also aid treatment, although evidence to prove they work is limited. Talk to your doctor about the risks versus benefits of incorporating herbs and supplements into your cancer treatment program.
Vitamin E
UMMC notes that vitamin E may stunt prostate cancer cell growth and may also help to protect men that smoke from developing the disease. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin with anti-oxidant properties found in number of foods including leafy greens, vegetables oils, sunflower seeds and broccoli. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement. However, taking large doses of this vitamin can increase the risk of bleeding. It may also interact with other medicines you may be taking including chemotherapeutic drugs. Ask your doctor if it is safe to incorporate this vitamin into your cancer treatment program.
Saw Palmetto
The herb known as saw palmetto may induce prostate cancer cell death, according to the results of a study published in the May 2009 edition of the medical journal, "BJU International." However, the study was carried out in a prostate cancer cell culture, not in men with the condition. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that saw palmetto is likely safe but may cause stomach discomfort. Get medical clearance before using this herb to treat prostate cancer.
Lycopene
The antioxidant, lycopene, may help to prevent prostate cancer cell growth, according to the findings of an animal study published in the October 2010 issue of "Prostate." However, the study's lead author, R. Konijeti, states that further testing in clinical models of prostate cancer are needed to confirm these effects. Lycopene is found in a number of foods including tomatoes, water melon and pink grapefruit and can also be taken as a dietary supplement. Lycopene is unlikely to cause side effects when taken at the recommended dose, but high doses may discolor the skin.
Green Tea
UMMC notes that green tea may have a slight benefit in the treatment of prostate cancer. In addition, data from a study published in the March 2010 issue of "Cancer Science" shows that a compound found in green tea, known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate, may induce prostate cancer cell death. Although green tea is commonly-consumed beverage, it is not suitable for everyone. For example, you should not take green tea if you have a bleeding disorder or if you suffer from anxiety as it may make your condition worse. Talk to your doctor before using this herb to determine whether it is suitable for you.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Prostate Cancer
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin E
- PubMed: Serenoa Repens Extract Targets Mitochondria and Activates the Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway in Human Prostate Cancer Cells
- National Center Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Saw Palmetto
- PubMed: Chemoprevention of Prostate Cancer with Lycopene in the TRAMP Model
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Lycopene
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