Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis, which is the tube that connects the testicles with the vas deferens in men. The inflammation is usually caused by bacteria that spread from the urethra or the bladder. Epididymitis is common in men between 19 and 35 years of age; circumcision, urinary tract surgery and multiple sexual partners increase the risk of the disease. Fever, pain and scrotal swelling are common symptoms. Treatment involves antibiotic therapy and pain medications. Certain herbs may also help manage epididymitis.
Saw Palmetto
The ripe fruit of saw palmetto, or Serenoa repens, have been made into liquid extracts, capsules and tablets that help treat infections of the urinary tract, prostate and epidydimis, says Tom Kruzel, N.D., in the book "Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide." Saw palmetto is generally safe to use, although mild side effects such as gastric disturbances may occur. It is best to talk to a doctor before using saw palmetto for epididymitis.
Cranberry Extract
Cranberry extract has been used historically to treat urinary tract infections caused by bacteria such as E. coli which may develop into epididymitis. These extracts are obtained from the berries of the cranberry plant and made into capsules, tablets and tinctures. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that although cranberry extracts are very safe, gastric disturbances and diarrhea may occur and it is important to talk to your health care provider before using them.
Pulsatilla
The above-ground parts of the Pulsatilla occidentalis plant are used to treat epididymal infections and may be as effective as conventional medications, according to "Alternative Medicine." However, pulsatilla supplements may be toxic at high concentrations and should be used only under the supervision of a physician.
Horsetail
Horsetail, obtained from the above-ground parts of the Equisetum arvense plant, can help treat genital tract infections such as epididymitis in men. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that horsetail can also be used to treat urinary tract infections which may progress into epididymitis. It is available in capsule, tincture and tea forms. Horsetail supplements are prone to contamination from other Equisetum species, which may be toxic. It is therefore best to talk to a physician before using horsetail.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is another herb recommended in the book "Alternative Medicine" to treat epididymitis. It is obtained from the Hydrastis canadensis plant and contains an antibacterial component known as berberine, which is effective against a wide variety of bacteria. Goldenseal may irritate the skin, mouth and the throat. It can also interfere with certain blood thinning medications. Always talk to a doctor before using goldenseal to determine if it is safe for you.
References
- "Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide"; Larry Trivieri, et al; 2002
- NCCAM: Cranberry
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Horsetail
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Goldenseal
