Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is caused by enlargement of the prostate, the gland responsible for producing the liquid component of semen. BPH causes a number of symptoms, including dribbling after urination and the urge to urinate frequently. BPH may be treated with drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which help to shrink the prostate and alleviate symptoms. However, some men may require surgery. Herbs are sometimes used to treat BPH and may provide relief from symptoms. However, talk to your doctor before using herbs to treat BPH.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto may help to reduce some symptoms of BPH, notes MedlinePlus. However, it may take one to two months to have any effect. Saw palmetto is a small palm native to the eastern coast of the United States and is also sometimes used to treat prostate conditions, including prostate cancer and prostatitis. This herb is likely safe for most people, MedlinePlus states. However, side effects may include dizziness, nausea, constipation and diarrhea. Do not take this herb if you are scheduled to undergo surgery within two weeks, as it may increase the risk of bleeding. Also avoid this herb if you are taking anticoagulants.
Pygeum
An article published in the July 2008 issue of "Planta Medica" notes that pygeum may provide a novel approach for the prevention and treatment of BPH. This herb contains compounds that may help to shrink prostate tissue and may improve urinary flow and reduce nocturnal urination in men with BPH, adds RxList. This herb is likely safe for most men but may cause abdominal discomfort and nausea. Get medical advice before using this herb to treat symptoms of BPH.
Rye Grass
Rye grass may modestly improve overall BPH-associated urological symptoms, according to an analysis of clinical trial data published in the May 2000 issue of the medical journal "BJU International." However, more up-to-date data are lacking. RxList adds that while this herb may help to relieve urological symptoms of BPH, there is insufficient evidence to show that it can shrink the prostate gland. This herb is likely safe, but side effects may include heartburn and nausea. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about using this herb to treat BPH.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
- MedlinePlus: Saw Palmetto
- PubMed: Extracts From Pygeum Africanum and Other Ethnobotanical Species With Antiandrogenic Activity
- RxList: Pygeum
- PubMed: Extracts From Pygeum Africanum and Other Ethnobotanical Species With Antiandrogenic Activity
- RxList: Rye Grass
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