Prostatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small gland encircling the urethra in males and is responsible for producing fluids to transport sperm during ejaculation. This condition affects about 10 million men in the United States, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Lower abdominal pain and difficulty urinating are the most common symptoms of prostatitis. Certain herbs may relieve symptoms of this condition; however, talk to your doctor before taking any herb to treat prostatitis.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is an herb native to the Atlantic region of North America. It is characterized by groups of long, narrow leaves that resemble palm fronds. This herb may help reduce inflammation associated with prostatitis, which may improve urination and relieve abdominal pain, according to Herbs 2000. Although there are no known side effects associated with use of this herb, check with your physician before taking saw palmetto to treat prostatitis.
Nettle
Nettle is an herb native to temperate regions of Europe. Greek physicians believed the leaves of the nettle plant could neutralize the poison of snake bites, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." The chemical compounds in nettle leaves may also reduce prostate inflammation. Consult your physician if you plan to use nettle to treat prostatitis. It may cause stomach irritation and burning sensations on the skin.
Horsetail
Horsetail, an herb that grows prolifically in European marshes, has a long history of use in herbal medicine. Roman healers recommended horsetail to stop nosebleeds and speed the healing of wounds. Horsetail contains a chemical compound called equisetonin that may have a diuretic effect. This may help improve urination problems associated with prostatitis, according to Balch. Talk to your doctor before taking horsetail as a remedy for prostatitis -- equisetonin may damage nerve endings.
Cayenne
Cayenne pepper is an abundant source of capsaicin, which gives this pepper its heat. Capsaicin may help dilate blood vessels in the prostate gland, improving the supply of oxygen and vitamin C, an inflammation reducer, according to Balch. Call your doctor if you plan to use cayenne as part of a prostatitis relief regimen. In rare cases, this herb can cause skin rashes.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- Herbs 2000: Saw Palmetto
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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