A gland approximately the size of a walnut, your prostate is located in your genitourinary tract and surrounds a portion of your bladder and urethra, or the tube through which urine passes on its way out of your body. The prostate gland is an important part of the male reproductive tract, in that it helps propel seminal fluids during orgasm. Natural supplements have long been used to treat prostate problems, but you should always review supplement-related information with your doctor before you use supplements for this health purpose.
Prostate Illnesses and Problems
Three of the most common prostate illnesses or problems include benign prostatic hypertrophy, prostate cancer and prostatitis. Other possible clinical conditions associated with your prostate gland include prostatitism, prostatalgia, urinary incontinence and impotence, or erectile dysfunction. Numerous tests may be ordered by a urologist to help diagnose your prostate condition, including digital rectal exam, urinalysis, blood tests, urinary flow study and prostate biopsy.
Prostate Natural Supplements
Many natural supplements have traditionally been used to treat prostate problems. Among the most commonly used natural supplements for this health purpose are thuja, cleavers, nettle, pipsissewa and saw palmetto, according to master herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual." Other supplements that may be beneficial in treating your prostate problems include African pygeum, selenium and quercetin. Some of these supplements may not be backed by extensive clinical research evidence.
A Potent Supplement
One of the most potent natural supplements for your prostate is cleavers. In his book "Plant Medicine in Practice," master herbalist and naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr. reports that cleavers has traditionally been used in treating prostate irritation, dysuria, psoriasis and tenesmus, or straining at the stool. This natural supplement may also be helpful in preventing the recurrence of kidney stones. Cleavers is a diuretic, a tonic and a laxative.
Considerations
Prostate conditions may cause symptoms that range from mild to severe, and some prostate conditions -- such as prostate cancer -- may be life threatening if they are not diagnosed early and treated appropriately. If you develop symptoms that may be attributable to a dysfunctional prostate, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. Your doctor can refer you to a urologist, if necessary, or order any relevant tests to help determine the cause of your prostate problem.
References
- Ohio University Medical Center: Anatomy of the Prostate Gland
- Univeristy of Texas Southwestern: Urology
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
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