Herbs For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Introduction

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia? An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is not cancer and doesn’t increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.

The prostate is a small gland in men that helps produce the fluid that carries sperm during ejaculation. It surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.

As men get older, the prostate can get bigger. This is called prostate enlargement. It is common and can lead to symptoms like needing to urinate frequently, trouble starting or stopping urination, weak urine flow, and the feeling that the bladder isn’t fully emptied.

Luckily, there are natural remedies, especially certain herbs, that may help relieve the symptoms of BPH. These herbs could support prostate health and provide comfort. Let's look at some of these herbal remedies and how they can help.

1. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)

Saw palmetto is one of the most studied herbs for managing BPH. The extract from the berries of this plant has been used for many years to help with urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. Saw palmetto works by blocking an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone linked to prostate growth. By reducing DHT, saw palmetto may help reduce symptoms of an enlarged prostate.¹

Is saw palmetto effective in treating prostate? Clinical studies suggest that saw palmetto may help reduce the need to urinate frequently, improve urine flow, and decrease the need to urinate at night. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties also support overall prostate health.²

2. Pygeum (Prunus africana)

Pygeum, derived from the African cherry tree, has been traditionally used to support urinary health. It contains natural compounds like phytosterols and fatty acids, which may help reduce inflammation and support the normal function of the prostate.³

Research suggests that pygeum may:

• Support normal urine flow.
• Help maintain normal urinary function.
• Help reduce the need to wake up during the night to urinate.

3.Prunus Domestica Bark Extract

Prunus domestica bark extract, derived from the bark of the European plum tree, may support prostate health. Its bioactive compounds may help maintain normal urinary function and reduce the sensation of urinary retention associated with BPH.

Research suggests that it may support normal bladder function and promote healthy urine flow. As part of a healthy lifestyle, it may be beneficial for managing symptoms related to prostate health.⁴

How long should you take prunus for prostate?

The doctor will decide how long the treatment should last, but medications for prostate problems can often take months or, in some cases, need to be taken for a lifetime.

The study tested Prunus domestica extract (CR002) for 36 days in rats with an enlarged prostate. More research is needed to figure out how long it should be used in humans.⁵

4. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a perennial plant found in temperate regions, including Europe, North America, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It typically grows in moist environments such as stream banks, meadows, and disturbed areas. It has the ability to spread and form dense patches due to its reproductive methods, including the use of rhizomes (underground stems) and seeds.⁶

·        Promotes Prostate Health: Some evidence suggests that stinging nettle may help reduce the size of the prostate, easing urinary difficulties. ⁶

·        Anti-inflammatory Effects: It may contribute to the reduction of inflammation, which can help manage prostate enlargement. ⁶

·        Hormonal Regulation: It may influence the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), potentially supporting prostate health. ⁶

·        Safety: It is generally well tolerated with no significant side effects and does not appear to affect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. ⁶

5. Pumpkin Seed (Cucurbita pepo)

Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil are a source of zinc, phytosterols, and essential fatty acids, which contribute to maintaining prostate health. Zinc is essential for proper prostate function, and its deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).⁷

• May support urinary health by reducing symptoms associated with overactive bladder.
• May improve urine flow.
• May promote overall urinary function.

6. Rye Grass Pollen Extract (Secale cereale)

Rye grass pollen extract is derived from the pollen of three species of grass. It is believed to help relax the muscles around the urethra and bladder, potentially easing urination. Additionally, it may contribute to reducing inflammation and inhibiting prostate cell growth.⁸

Studies suggest that rye grass pollen extract may support improvements in urinary symptoms and overall quality of life in men.⁹

7. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)

Green tea is a source of catechins, which are antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the prostate and support healthy prostate function. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of green tea may lower the risk of prostate-related issues, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

The anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties of green tea may contribute to a prostate-friendly lifestyle.¹⁰

8. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric contains the active compound curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin may help reduce inflammation in the prostate and alleviate symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).¹¹

9. Lycopene

Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and other red fruits, may help support prostate health by reducing oxidative stress in prostate tissues. Regular consumption of lycopene-rich foods or supplements may contribute to the normal function of the prostate.¹²

What is the natural substitute for tamsulosin?

Some men may turn to herbal remedies and supplements for help with symptoms of an enlarged prostate. While these can't replace prescription medications, options like rye grass, prunus domestica bark extract, pygeum, saw palmetto, and beta-sitosterol are popular because they tend to have fewer side effects.

Incorporate Prost-X into your daily routine. It is a natural supplement designed to support prostate health and urinary function, featuring a unique blend of milk thistle and Prunus domestica extract. Made from organically grown Prunus domestica on a sustainable farm, it offers a potent mix of active compounds like phytosterols and triterpenes. The product is free from harmful additives, sugars, and fillers, and comes in eco-friendly organic vegan capsules, ensuring high bioavailability.

How to shrink prostate naturally?

Support prostate health naturally with lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lycopene-rich foods (e.g., tomatoes), and limiting saturated fats. Green tea's antioxidants may also help. Manage fluid intake, especially before bed, to ease symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Conclusion

Manage benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) naturally with remedies like saw palmetto, prunus domestica bark extract, pygeum, pumpkin seeds, green tea, and lycopene, which may reduce symptoms and improve urinary flow. Pair supplements with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine check-ups. Consult your doctor before starting any new treatment, especially if you take medications. A balanced lifestyle supports long-term prostate health effectively.

References

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2.Ishii I, Wada T, Takara T. Effects of saw palmetto fruit extract intake on improving urination issues in Japanese men: A randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group, placebo‐controlled study. Food Science & Nutrition [Internet]. 2020 Jun 17 [cited 2025 Jan 10];8(8):4017–26. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7455929/

3.Rubegeta E, Makolo F, Chen W, Kamatou G. Prunus africana. Elsevier eBooks [Internet]. 2022 Nov 29 [cited 2025 Jan 10];447–69. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/pygeum

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5.Anand Swaroop, Bagchi M, Kumar P, Preuss HG, Bagchi D. Safety and efficacy of a novel Prunus domestica extract (Sitoprin, CR002) on testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in male Wistar rats. Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods [Internet]. 2015 Aug 31 [cited 2025 Jan 10];25(9):653–64. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26337762/

6.Devkota HP, Paudel KR, Khanal S, Baral A, Panth N, Adhikari-Devkota A, et al. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.): Nutritional Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Food Functional Properties. Molecules [Internet]. 2022 Aug 16 [cited 2025 Jan 10];27(16):5219. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9413031/

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8.Casale TB, Stokes JR. Future forms of immunotherapy. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology [Internet]. 2010 Nov 21 [cited 2025 Jan 10];127(1):8–15. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/pollen-extract

9.Cai T, Paolo Verze, Rocca RL, Umberto Anceschi, Cosimo De Nunzio, Mirone V. The role of flower pollen extract in managing patients affected by chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a comprehensive analysis of all published clinical trials. BMC Urology [Internet]. 2017 Apr 21 [cited 2025 Jan 10];17(1). Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28431537/

10.Katz A, Efros M, Kaminetsky J, Herrlinger K, Chirouzes D, Ceddia M. A green and black tea extract benefits urological health in men with lower urinary tract symptoms. Therapeutic Advances in Urology [Internet]. 2014 Mar 20 [cited 2025 Jan 10];6(3):89–96. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4003843/

11.Liu Y, Wang Z, Gan Y, Chen X, Zhang B, Chen Z, et al. Curcumin attenuates prostatic hyperplasia caused by inflammation via up-regulation of bone morphogenetic protein and activin membrane-bound inhibitor. Pharmaceutical Biology [Internet]. 2021 Jan [cited 2025 Jan 10];59(1):1024–33. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8354175/

12.Dhillon VS, Deo P, Fenech M. Effect of Selenium and Lycopene on Radiation Sensitivity in Prostate Cancer Patients Relative to Controls. Cancers [Internet]. 2023 Feb 3 [cited 2025 Jan 10];15(3):979. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9913686/