Located beneath the bladder and surrounding the urethra, the prostate gland is responsible for semen production. Men in their 40s experience a growth period in which the gland increases in size, resulting in prostate enlargement, according to the Mayo Clinic. When the prostate becomes enlarged, symptoms include difficulty urinating and increased pressure. Medications and herbal remedies are options for relief. Among the best herbs for enlarged prostate are pygeum, saw palmetto and stinging nettle.
Pygeum
Traditional African healers used the pygeum herb, an herb derived form African plumb trees, to treat bladder disorders and enlarged prostate. Today, the herb is still among the best herbs available for prostate enlargement. According to Medline Plus, studies conducted in the past indicate improvement in symptoms of enlarged prostate, including urine flow rate, leftover urine volume and frequency of nighttime urine. While the herb is commonly used in Europe, in the United States, prescription drugs and the herb saw palmetto are used more often.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto, a small plant native to Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and Texas, is esteemed for its berries, which are dried and prepared in teas and capsules for health. Native Indians used the herb as a health tonic, to increase weight and promote rest. Additionally, the herb was (and is used today) to treat conditions related to the genitals. Saw palmetto may be among the best herbs for enlarged prostate, taking the place of alpha blockers and other medications available by prescription. Studies show the herb may be beneficial for reducing the symptoms of the condition, according to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. Compounds found in the herb may also help reduce the size of the prostate, though scientific evidence is lacking.
Stinging Nettle
The stinging nettle plant is a herbaceous perennial, found in rural areas of Asia and Europe. In traditional medicine, the herb was used as a joint treatment as well as a pain reliever. Today, stinging nettle is among the best herbs for enlarged prostate, used in conjunction with saw palmetto and pygeum, the herb may reduce the bothersome side effects of enlarged prostate, such as urinary retention and urinary urgency, according to Medline Plus.
