Show Your Prostate Some Herbal Love

According to the American Urological Association (ACU), it is estimated that about 288,300 men will be newly diagnosed with prostate cancer this year and around 34,700 men will not survive.  This constitutes the most deaths from any cancer in men after lung cancer. In fact, recent studies have indicated that more than half of men over age 50 and 80% of men over age 70 suffer from an enlarged prostate. If you, or someone you know, are over 50 and have sudden bladder urges throughout the night that have led to sleep deprivation, an enlarged prostate is likely to be blamed.

Perhaps it is no surprise, then, that the demand for natural herbal solutions that support prostate health is growing.  For men in their 20s and 30s, the prostate is typically the size of a walnut. For men in their early 40s, this tiny reproductive organ begins to grow, often reaching the size of a lemon or even a grapefruit by age 60. As it expands, the gland presses against the bladder wall, causing frequent urinary urges and the sensation of a constantly full bladder. The prostate surrounds the urethra and restricts the flow of urine as it enlarges, resulting in a weak, dribbling stream and repressed sexual function.

While an enlarged prostate is a natural consequence of aging, free radical damage caused by environmental and dietary factors can accelerate prostate growth. Lifestyle and a westernized diet rich in red or processed meat, sugar, fatty dairy products, refined grains, and fewer fruits and vegetables seem to increase susceptibility to the disease, and individuals with a family history may be at an even higher risk. However, a diet rich in antioxidants and a well-rounded herbal regimen can help reduce frequent urination and protect against Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) issues as you grow older.

Blood PSA testing (Prostate-specific antigen) is used as a screening test for prostate cancer.   PSA is a protein produced by the glandular tissue of the prostate that detects the levels in blood, urine, or semen.  Screening for PSA to rule out prostatic cancer should begin at the age of 55. A PSA level above 4.0 ng/mL in any age group must be investigated. However, PSA levels can spike in noncancerous conditions, such as benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH), urinary tract infections, prostatitis, consumption of testosterone supplements, recent catheterization, and injuries to the pelvic region.

The efficacy of current treatment options for Prostate cancer, such as radiation, chemotherapy, hormone treatment and surgical removal, are limited and can create many side effects, while phytochemicals, tinctures and extracts isolated from plants show anti-prostate cancer activity with unique healing mechanisms. Some work alone or while others work in combination with current Western Medicine and show great therapeutic promise.

So, here’s the thing.  If you are experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor and have it diagnosed.  It may be that you can wait and watch, while improving your lifestyle habits and using natural herbs to maintain prostate health. But take your time if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer; carefully explore your options and self-advocate for the treatment that you are most comfortable with.  Three different doctors can give you three drastically different solutions, some that can create long-term side effects.

Here are four herbal solutions, some for preventative care and some for those going through the stages of prostate cancer:

Prostate Support Formulal Compound Formula is a tried-and-true formula to strengthen the prostate. It is similar to the Kidney/Bladder Support Formula with two major differences. It has ginseng and gravel root; and it has cayenne instead of lobelia. Lobelia is a messenger herb that tells the other herbs what to do, whereas the cayenne is a stimulant, driving the other herbs to stimulate the organ/organs involved.

The ingredients include Red Ginseng, Juniper Berries, Marshmallow, Ginger, Gravel Root, Goldenseal, Uva Ursi, Parsley leaf, Cayenne (40 hu).

CFF Formula|Immune Support is a must-have formula combining 33 herbal ingredients that are beneficial for any type of immune system dysfunction.  It will eradicate free radicals and cleanse the blood. It will also help to strengthen the liver, colon and kidneys and other organs.

I have had a personal experience with the power of this formula.  A relative was diagnosed with Prostate cancer.  He used this formula, in conjunction with limited focused radiation, (without hormone therapy) and his PSA went from a very high count to a .8, less than a score of 1.  His doctor was amazed and said she would have been happy with a 2 or 3. You can read more about this formula by clicking on the link above.

The ingredients include Aloe vera, Black Cohosh, Burdock, Chaparral leaf, Cat’s Claw, Echinacea, Fenugreek, Garlic, Goldenseal Root, Graviola, Gravel Root, Juniper Berry, Lemon Grass, Maitake, Milk Thistle, Mistletoe, Neem, Nettle, Oregon Grape Root, Periwinkle, Plantain, Red Reishi, Rosehips, Sage, Shitake, Sheep Sorrel, Slippery Elm Bark, Turkey Rhubarb Root, Turmeric, Thyme, White Oak Bark, Yarrow, Yellow Dock.

Pygeum Bark (Pygeum africanum) is derived from an African evergreen and is used widely throughout Europe to treat male baldness and prostate enlargement. The anti-inflammatory properties of this herb ease prostate and urinary problems and lessen gastric disturbances. It is believed to have aphrodisiac effects, as well, and may help with impotence. It has also been used for baldness and externally for wounds and swelling. 

Pumpkin Seed (Cucurbita pepo L.) has been valued as an important natural food source for men’s health, because of the high zinc content, which is very important to prostate health. It is traditionally used to facilitate the passage of urine and alleviate urinary difficulties, as well as urinary incontinence. It has been called a “Male Tonic” and may have beneficial effects on the prostate gland as a natural solution to help revitalize the prostate gland and stimulate male hormone production. 

Pumpkins seeds are also a rich source of zinc, which plays an important role in the strength of your immune system, cell growth and division, mood, sleep, eye and skin health, your sense of taste and smell, insulin regulation and male sexual function. Phosphorous is another critical nutrient found in the pumpkin seed, and it is believed to help maintain healthy erections and maintain peak levels of the sex hormone, testosterone. This is also a key component for healthy sperm production in men and is the lifeblood of a healthy prostate. Pumpkin seeds are also an excellent source of amino acid myosin, and that is an essential component of strong muscular contractions and energy.

If you are a male, over 40, be attuned to your body, watch for the warning signs of prostate issues and take a proactive stance. When caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable.