-IBIS-1.7.6-
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reproductive system
Benign prostatic hypertrophy
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
Prostatic enlargement, called "benign prostatic hypertrophy," is a disorder of the male hormone system. The symptoms are an urgent and frequent need to urinate, often with little result. This problem may increase over time.
Changes brought on by aging are closely associated with the prostatic enlargement, and nearly 60% of men, ages 40 to 59, have the disease. Overexposure to toxic chemicals and heavy metals, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor nutrition may also contribute to its development. Since enlargement of the prostrate can also be caused by cancer, make sure you are properly diagnosed by a physician.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. Zinc picolinate 50 milligrams per day. Use at this dosage for a maximum of 6 months then reduce to 15 milligrams per day.
2. A multivitamin and mineral supplement containing copper taken to complement the effects of zinc.
3. The three amino acids, Glycine, alanine, and glutamic acid, can often be found in one formulation. The dose is 200 milligrams of each per day.
4. B-complex vitamins 50 milligrams once a day.
THE PROPER DIET FOR PROSTATIC ENLARGEMENT WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
1. Cold-pressed oils that contain essential fatty acids, such as linseed oil, soy oil, sunflower oil, or Evening Primrose oil. Take 1 tablespoon per day of any one of these.
2. Eliminate or at least greatly reduce the consumption of alcohol and drugs, and try to avoid foods contaminated with pesticides and hormones.
3. Cholesterol may contribute to prostatic enlargement. Since cholesterol is found in animal products, including meat, eggs, and dairy products, limit the intake of those foods. For more information on this topic, refer to the article on cholesterol .
4. Pumpkin seeds Eat 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day.
HERBS USED FOR PROSTATIC ENLARGMENT:
Panax Ginseng 20 drops of the fluid extract, 3 times a day. Daily doses of vitamin C heighten the effect of Ginseng. However, Ginseng and vitamin C should be taken at separate times of the day. Avoid taking commercial teas, which are less effective. Ginseng is taken on an empty stomach.
Bee Pollen 1 heaping tablespoon daily.
Saw Palmetto has been shown to significantly improve the signs and symptoms of prostatic enlargement 20 drops, 3 times a day, of the fluid extract.
A PHYSICAL THERAPY MEASURE FOR PROSTATIC ENLARGMENT IS AS FOLLOWS:
Take a hot sitz bath twice per week. Fill the bathtub about 1/3 full so that the water will come up to about your navel. Add an infusion made of 1/2 pound of Chamomille herb steeped in 2 quarts of boiling water for a half an hour. Sit sideways in the bathtub with your feet resting on a chair or stool outside of the tub. Your exposed upper body and feet should be covered with a sheet or towel and a blanket (preferably wool.) Soak in the bath water for about 10 minutes. Then sit in cold water or use a cold wet towel for 1 minute and then dry yourself.
HOMEOPATHY:
Baryta Carb 12C: Especially suitable for older men. Dissolve 3 pellets under the tongue twice a day.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for men with prostatic hypertrophy. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.