A prostate infection, or bacterial prostatitis, causes the prostate gland to become inflamed, leading to difficult or painful urination and back pain. Both acute and chronic forms of the infection are commonly treated with antibiotics. You may also need to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce pain. Herbs are also sometimes used to alleviate symptoms, although evidence to show they work is lacking. Do not use them in place of medical treatment and talk to your doctor before using herbs to treat a prostate infection.
Examples
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that saw palmetto and stinging nettle are sometimes used to treat prostate conditions. Saw palmetto is a fruit-producing palm native to the eastern coast of the United States. It is primarily used as an alternative remedy for prostate disorders, although is also sometimes used to treat hormonal imbalances and hair loss. The roots of the stinging nettle plant are used to treat a number of ailments, including prostate disorders. It might also help to promote urination, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Administration
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that 160 mg of saw palmetto taken twice daily has been used to treat non-bacterial prostatitis. The effect of saw palmetto on bacterial prostatitis, however, has not been studied; therefore, it is difficult to say whether this dose might be helpful for a prostate infection. Alternatively, you may prefer to take 80 mg of stinging nettle daily to boost prostate health. Ask your doctor whether these dosages are suitable for you.
Side Effects
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that saw palmetto is generally well tolerated, although it may cause mild side effects such as nausea and vomiting. It may also have a blood-thinning effect and increase the risk of bleeding. Stinging nettle may cause side effects including gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation and increased sweating.
Considerations
Clinical studies showing that herbs are an effective treatment for a prostate infection are lacking; therefore, it is probably unwise to rely on them to treat an infected prostate. In addition, saw palmetto and nettle are not suitable for everyone. For example, you should avoid saw palmetto if you are taking anticoagulants. If you think you have a prostate infection, consult your doctor and use medicines as directed.
