The prostate gland is a pale, firm gland of the male reproductive system, located below the bladder. The health of the prostate is crucial in optimizing fertility and preventing cancer. Ayurveda, a traditional medicine native to India, uses natural resources to maintain balance in the body to keep the prostate gland healthy. Consult with your doctor before using Ayurvedic medicine.
Balance
In Ayurveda, the state of your health is all dependent on achieving an equal balance of the three life energies, water, air and fire. When one of these energies is aggravated, illness or disease may easily develop. Daily rituals such as oil massage, taking walks and eating, sleeping and waking at the same times each day can help bring balance back to your life. For prostate balance try massaging sesame or coconut oil into the perineum each day.
Diet
According to Ayurvedic medicine, the way you eat and drink can either help or hurt the health of your prostate gland. Eating a diet that is primarily low-fat and plant-based, may reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. Sweet and juicy fruits such as plums, peaches or melons, purify the urine, cells and immune system, resulting in a healthier prostate gland. Also, avoid drinking too much alcohol or caffeine, as abuse of these substances can contribute to prostate problems.
Yoga
Specific poses practiced in yoga, an ancient system of holistic health, are often used in Ayurveda to achieve balance and treat ailments. For prostate health, use poses that take pressure off the pelvic floor -- for example, try Hero Pose, also known as virasana. Start by standing on your knees and then sit down in-between your heels. Place your palms on your thighs and hold your spine in a straight position. Stay in the pose for up to one minute.
Additional Tips and Considerations
When you use the bathroom, make sure you empty the bladder completely. This is helpful to avoid irritation of the prostate gland. To flush potential toxins in the urine which could also be irritating the prostate, drink plenty of water each day. Or you can try drinking an Ayurvedic urine cleansing mixture throughout the day: boil up to 3 quarts of water and place a few pinches of coriander seed, fennel seed and five holy basil leaves in the water. Check with your health care professional before practicing Ayurvedic cleansing techniques.
References
- "Gray's Anatomy"; Henry Gray; 1901 & 1977
- "Ayurveda, The Science of Self Healing"; Dr. Vasant Lad, 1985
- "Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy"; Mukunda Stiles, 2007
- Yoga Journal: Get Hip About Prostate Health
