Medicinal herbs for prostate problems

Prostate Overview

The prostate is a walnut-sized organ of the male reproductive system mostly made up of glandular tissue. Prostate is positioned at the base of the bladder and through its center runs the thin tube called urethra that allows semen and urine to flow out of the penis.

The function of the prostate is to store and secrete fluid that nourishes and protects the sperm. This fluid is milky or white in appearance, slightly alkaline and contains proteins and hormones. The prostatic fluid forms a part of the semen along with spermatozoa and seminal vesicle fluid. Together with spermatozoa it leaves the urethra as men ejaculate.

The alkalinity of the prostatic fluid helps to neutralize acidic environment of the vagina thus protects sperm and promotes its survival. The prostatic fluid also promotes motility of spermatozoa and protects genetic material or DNA present in them hence aids in fertilization. Contraction of smooth muscles in the prostate gland helps to expel the semen out of the body during ejaculation.

The prostatic secretion is rich in proteolytic enzymes, prostatic acid phosphatase, citric acid, lipids and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). It also contains high level of zinc.

Male hormones or androgens are required for healthy functioning of the prostate. Testosterone, secreted by the testes, is the main male sex hormone while small amount of some androgens is produced by the adrenal glands. However, a byproduct of testosterone known as dihydrotestosterone is mainly responsible for regulation of the prostate gland.

Prostate Problems

The prostate can be affected by several conditions and diseases but the three most common prostate problems include enlargement of the prostate, inflammation of the prostate and prostate cancer. Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate due to bacterial infection. This condition causes the prostate to become swollen, sore and irritated. Enlarged prostate also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) usually affects older men and causes symptoms related to the lower urinary tract due to non-cancerous enlargement of the gland. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and is caused by abnormal growth of cells within the prostate gland.

Medicinal Herbs for Prostate ProblemsHerbal remedies can be helpful in treatment of prostate problems. Herbs can provide symptoms relief and can be used along with prescription medications for better results. Following are herbal mixtures for treatment of prostate symptoms:

Prepare a mixture of:30 g Kinnikinnick30 g Yarrow20 g Comfrey20 g Heartsease20 g White Deadnettle20 g Field Horsetail20 g Marigold20 g Pine buds10 g Sage10 g Vine leavesAdd 1 tablespoon of the mixture to a cup of boiling water and leave it steep for 2 minutes. Put in 1 teaspoon of Sweedish bitter and drink 3 cups per day.

Make an infusion of:100 g Lingonberry100 g Field Horsetail40 g Parsley Seed20 g Flaxseed20 g Couch grass rhizomes10 g Yellow Sweet CloverAdd 1 tablespoon to a cup of boiling water and drink 2-3 cups per day.

Prepare a mixture of equal parts of following herbs:Corn silkField HorsetailPear leavesQuince leavesYarrowPut 1 tablespoon of the mixture into a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, strain and add polyfloral honey. Drink 3 cups per day.