Herbs for Prostate Health

Prostate health is a commonly overlooked issue with men. This is a small organ that is usually not thought of unless symptoms appear to draw attention to it. Over 50% of men in their 60’s and as many as 90% in their 70’s or older have symptoms of enlarged prostate (BPH-Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). It is theorized that this enlargement is due to the changing hormonal system in men as they age. In order to understand the symptoms of BPH as well as effective support for the prostate, let’s first discuss what the prostate is.

The prostate gland is a sex gland that is approximately the size of a walnut and wraps around the urethra.  The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis and this is also the tube that carries semen during ejaculation. The prostate gland grows considerably during puberty and seems to stop at the end of that cycle. There is virtually no change in the size again until approximately age 40 when the gland again begins to grow. In some men, the gland does not stop growing and leads to experiencing symptoms of enlarged prostate. 50% of men are usually not bothered by symptoms; for those who are, they will experience a variety of issues associated with BPH.

BPH is a non-cancerous disorder and is the most common prostate health problem in men. BPH may result in a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent urination, incomplete emptying of the bladder, a weak urine stream or difficulty starting urination. In rare cases BPH may also lead to bladder stones, kidney infections, and damage to the bladder, kidney, and urethra. As the prostate continues to enlarge, symptoms may gradually worsen, interfere with sleep, cause physical discomfort, and interfere with routine activities.

In supporting a healthy prostate it is important to increase blood supply and lymphatic flow to the prostate and pelvic area, support healthy hormonal balance, and treat all inflammatory conditions as well as remove those triggers that cause inflammation such as food allergens. Activities such as exercise, yoga, sitz baths, and a healthy sex life are also vital to normal healthy prostate function.

There are some viable botanical considerations to add into a protocol for prostate health and support. Botanicals are useful for relieving congestion in the prostate and pelvis, improving circulation for improved glandular function, and for reducing inflammation and irritation to the gland.

Serenoa repens (saw palmetto) is a tonic for the male reproductive tract. This herb is used as a diuretic, decongestant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. These actions are all useful for prostate health. Saw palmetto is thought to decrease conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone that promotes growth of the prostate and is implicated in BPH. It may also interfere with binding of dihydrotestosterone receptors in the prostate and may additionally have anti-estrogenic effects. It is indicated for atony of pelvic organs, urethritis, impotence and all wasting diseases of the male pelvic organs.

Galium aparine (cleavers) is a relaxing diuretic and a lymphagogue. It corrects the inability to pass normal catabolic wastes. Cleavers is a soothing herb used in pelvic problems when a lymphagogue is needed.

Chimaphila umbellate (Pipsissewa) is a lymphagogue with an affinity for the pelvic region and a diuretic and antiseptic in the urinary tract. It is used in atonic, chronic and infectious conditions such as prostatitis and BPH.

Urtica spp. (nettle root) is used as a diuretic and is specific for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The methods of action on the prostate are thought to be an interaction with sex hormone binding globulin, inhibiting the binding of epidermal growth factor to its receptor and inhibition of aromatase.

Protocols for prostate health will be most effective when adjusting the combination of lifestyle and nutritional considerations, exercise, and supplementation with botanicals, vitamins and minerals. It is also important to seek guidance from a qualified health care practitioner as well when there is concern about the prostate. Proper screening for prostate cancer is a simple exam and can be life saving.  


Kris Vaughan, CH