Ayurvedic Remedies for Enlarged Prostate

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a prostate gland-specific disorder in men. It is a non-cancerous mass of growth that results in an enlarged prostate. Though not life-threatening, BPH can significantly impact the quality of life of those suffering from it. The major symptoms of this disease are increased urination frequency, urgency, weak stream, and nocturia (frequent nighttime urination). Ayurvedic remedies for enlarged prostate make use of holistic remedies to manage BPH working on the root cause of the disease.

Understanding BPH in Ayurveda

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of wellness, attributes BPH to an imbalance between the three doshas of the body, i.e. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. In Ayurveda, the prostate gland is a "Shukra dhatu" (reproductive tissue) organ. Any imbalances in Apana Vata (the dosha responsible for the downward movement of energy), lead to incomplete urination and discomfort.

Symptoms:

• Frequent urination at night
• Difficulty starting urination
• Incomplete bladder emptying
• Intermittent urine flow
• Urinary retention in severe cases
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Causes:

• Aging
• Imbalance between testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
• Genetics
• Lifestyle factors like a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, poor diet, alcohol, and caffeine consumption
• Chronic Inflammation of the prostate gland
• Metabolic syndrome
• Imbalance in growth factors
• Reduced cell death (Apoptosis) in the prostate gland

Ayurvedic Remedies for Enlarged Prostate: Medicines

1. Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris)

• Benefits: Being a diuretic and anti-inflammatory herb, Gokshura keeps a check on the inflammation in the prostate gland and improves urine flow. The herb also contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with BPH. Gokshura may also aid in maintaining healthy testosterone levels and support overall hormonal balance in men.
• How to Use: Mix its powder in warm water and drink it or use it as a capsule after meals.

2. Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa)

• Benefits: This Ayurvedic herb has excellent rejuvenating properties and it also helps reduce fluid retention in the body. Consuming this herb may also promote healthy kidney functioning. Punarnava contains antioxidants that inhibit the damage from oxidative stress in the prostate cells. The herb may also aid in balancing hormones that influence prostate health.
• How to Use: Consume the decoction made from its leaves two times a day.

3. Varuna (Crataeva Nurvala)

• Benefits: This herb reduces inflammation, and helps keep a check on prostate gland enlargement. Varuna possesses anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce inflammation in the prostate gland. This can result in reduced pressure on the urethra and improve urinary flow. Some Ayurvedic texts also suggest that this natural herb may help balance the doshas inside the body, resulting in reduced prostate size.
• How to Use: Its bark powder can be consumed with honey.

4. Kanchanar (Bauhinia Variegata)

• Benefits: This potent Ayurvedic herb has anti-tumor and gland-reducing properties and is one of the most potent Ayurvedic remedies for enlarged prostate. Kanchanar is a known lymphatic cleanser and helps detoxify the lymphatic system. This Ayurvedic herb aids in the removal of toxins and promotes better urinary tract health.
• How to Use: Kanchanar and Guggulu should be combined for stronger results.

5. Shilajit

• Benefits: Shilajit supports urinary and reproductive health in men. Shilajit contains bioactive compounds like fulvic acid that help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland. It also helps improve symptoms such as pain and discomfort associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As a natural rejuvenator, Shilajit aids in improving energy levels and vitality in prostate patients.
• How to Use: Take it in resin form or you can also consume its capsules.

6. Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)

• Benefits: Ashwagandha is a natural adaptogen and it helps reduce stress that can exacerbate BPH symptoms. In additon, Ashwagandha is rich in antioxidants that protect prostate cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This can lead to a reduced risk of prostate enlargement and other age-related prostate issues.
• Usage: You can consume it as powder or capsule.

7. Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula)

• Benefits: Haritaki is known for improving digestion and removing toxins from the body. Haritaki is a powerful detoxifying agent that helps remove metabolic waste and toxins. In addition, rich in tannins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, Haritaki protects prostate cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage, complications often associated with with prostate enlargement and aging. By promoting overall bodily balance and detoxification, this herb regulates hormones that help influence the prostate health.
• Usage: You can consume it as a powder mixed with warm water or included in Triphala formulations.

Note - Consuming Ayurvedic herbs may cause side effects, if not prescribed by a healthcare provider. You must have a thorough cosultation with your doctor beforehand.

Dietary Recommendations for Prostate Patients

Foods to Include:

1. Fruits and Vegetables: Consume fresh fruits and veggies as they combat inflammation well. Examples include berries, pomegranates, and green leafy vegetables.
2. Pumpkin Seeds: These seeds are high in zinc and phytosterols and they help improve prostate health.
3. Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain lycopene which helps reduce prostate inflammation.
4. Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, and quinoa support overall health.
5. Flaxseeds: These seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, reducing prostate swelling.
6. Soy Products: Soy has a compound called isoflavones, that supports good prostate health.

Foods to Avoid:

1. Spicy Foods: Spicy foods are responsible for aggravating Pitta dosha, potentially worsening inflammation in the prostate gland. When preparing meals, be sure to add moderate amounts of spices. In addition, stay away from junk, processed foods as well as they are high on salt and other spices.
2. Caffeine and Alcohol: These caffeinated products are linked with irritated urinary tract and may lead to increased urination.
3. Processed Foods: Processed foods are rich in additives and spices and unhealthy fats that may aggravate Kapha imbalance.
4. Red Meat: It is difficult to digest and may put a lot of strain on the digestive system.

Lifestyle Changes

1. Hydration

• Always drink an ample amount of water so that your body can flush out toxins from the body. Water, juices, herbal teas, etc. are perfect for replenishing the hydration needs.
• Being overweight or obese has been linked with increased risk of BPH and prostate cancer. Focus on consuming a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

2. Yoga and Pranayama

• Asanas: Yoga poses such as Moola Bandha (root lock), Vajrasana (diamond pose), and Bhujangasana (cobra pose) are known to stimulate the pelvic region and improve prostate health. However, practice Yoga asanas under the guidance of a certified Yoga teacher.
• Pranayama: Anulom Vilom and Kapalabhati help balance out the dosha energies in the body.

3. Stress Management

• Suffering from an enlarged prostate can cause stress. Meditate regularly to reduce stress.

4. Regular Exercise

• Engaging in moderate physical activities like walking, swimming, or cycling helps keep a tab on inflammation in the body, indirectly contributing to better prostate health.

5. Detoxification

• Going for periodic Panchakarma treatments like Basti (medicated enemas) may result in reduced inflammation in the body.

Precautions

1. Be sure to consume high-quality herbs, that too sourced from reputable suppliers.
2. Never self-medicate as it may backfire big time.
3. You should consult your healthcare provider before consuming any herb. Ayurvedic herbs can interact with traditional medicines.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive cure for BPH, that has its focus on restoring dosha balance and removing toxins from the body. A smooth integration of Ayurvedic herbs with modern medicinal practices will help you get a satisfactory cure for this ailment. However, you must seek professional advice if your symptoms are severe.