Herbs for Enlarged Prostate

The prostate is a small gland, about the size of a walnut, located at the base of the urethra in men. When the prostate becomes swollen, it is commonly due to a condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, which can be treated at home with herbs and natural techniques. Getting a prostate exam by your physician will determine whether or not choosing herbal treatment is right for you.

Alternatives To Drugs

• Make an appointment with your physician and discuss his recommended treatment for your enlarged prostate. Taking drugs such as Proscar could give you side effects such as impotence, decreased libido and other sexual dysfunctions. Picking an alternative to this medication, such as saw palmetto, can possibly offer the same relief as Proscar because they both give the same effects. Anti-inflammatory properties and hormonal inhibitors make saw palmetto a natural and commonly used herb for BPH. Choosing other herbs like Pygeum africanum may also give the same effects.

Various Herbs

• Try herbs that have healing qualities other than for soothing enlarged prostates, like echinacea, which is believed to help the immune system. Boosting your immune system with echinacea can help your body produce the antibodies to stave off infections associated with BPH. Taking ginger root can help relieve swelling that is associated with water retention, due to it's diuretic properties. Consult with your physician before taking any herbs, however, to make sure the option is safe for your particular condition.

Healthy Regimens

• Relying solely on herbal remedies may be less effective in treating an enlarged prostate because it is important to get exercise and enjoy a healthy and balanced diet in order for your body to reach its healing potential. Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole-grain breads and limit your intake of saturated fats. Drink plenty of fluids, such as fruit and vegetable juices, and try to drink lots of water. Supplementing your prostate health regimen with nutrients like zinc, magnesium and calcium can also help in preventing future bouts of BPH, and eating garlic also promotes a healthy prostate.