Are you wondering how to shrink an enlarged prostate naturally, or if it’s even possible? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Dealing with an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can be challenging. However, there are natural remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and promote prostate health. Even if you’ve been prescribed medication for BPH, these natural remedies to try yourself at home will help ease your symptoms. But first of all, let’s take a closer look at BPH.
BPH is one of the most common health problems that males encounter, affecting some 50% of males aged between 51-60 and 70% of men between 60-69. This figure rises to 80% for men over the age of 70.
As men age, they often experience an enlarged prostate, medically termed benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This condition arises as the cells within the prostate gland undergo multiplication over time. The enlargement of the prostate becomes problematic as it exerts pressure on the urethra, resulting in urinary problems including:
Ignoring BPH symptoms can lead to further complications such as urine retention and kidney damage. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may suggest regular monitoring or recommend treatment, if deemed necessary.
Can an enlarged prostate shrink on its own?
In a word, no. But here are four natural remedies to try at home to alleviate your symptoms.
A sitz bath is an old-fashioned form of hydrotherapy that can be used to relieve the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Taking a sitz bath involves alternating between hot and cold baths. Sitting in a warm bath will relax the pelvic muscles and promote healing while a cold bath reduces prostate swelling and eases pain.
To try this at home, fill your bathtub with warm water (105-115°F) and add half a cup of Epsom salt to it. Fill another large container with cold water (55-85°F) and add a few drops of lavender essential oil.
Sit in the warm water for 3 minutes, then switch to the cold water for 1 minute.
Repeat this process three times, ending with a cold bath.
This method for soothing the prostate is backed up by a study on patients who had undergone transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and consequently experienced faster healing and fewer complications.
Engaging in pelvic-strengthening or kegel exercises can provide relief for some of the discomfort associated with an enlarged prostate. These exercises are beneficial for tightening and clenching specific pelvic muscles, aiding in the control of urination. Kegel exercises stand out as one of the most effective methods for reducing prostate swelling and improving urinary flow.
To perform kegel exercises:
Not quite sure where your pelvic floor muscles are? Here’s a handy tip: While at the toilet, attempt to stop and start urinating. The muscles you engage during this process are your pelvic floor muscles and the ones you are aiming to strengthen through kegel exercises.
For optimal results, repeat these exercises 10-20 times, 2-3 times per day to help alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, it's essential for men dealing with chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome to avoid this type of exercise.
Unfiltered raw apple cider vinegar is a popular natural remedy for a plethora of health problems, including prostate gland issues. Its acidic properties are said to help reduce swelling of the prostate gland and prevent complications arising from the condition, such as urinary tract infections.
One way to ingest apple cider vinegar is to mix it with a tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm water and drink it. Alternatively, why not add it to a salad dressing? If you prefer, you could also add a cup of apple cider vinegar to cool bath water and soak in it for about ten minutes.
Many of us have experienced sharp pain from touching stinging nettles, but did you know they contain beneficial compounds for the prostate? A study in 2019 discovered that nettle root extraction effectively soothes the prostate and relieves BPH symptoms. Participants in the study noticed their urine flow increased significantly and their prostate volume reduced.
While foods can’t guarantee to shrink the prostate, nutritious foods can create a line of defence. All men should be aware that incorporating certain vitamins and minerals into their diet can help maintain a healthy prostate and lower their risk for BPH. Foods to include in a prostate diet include:
While an enlarged prostate can’t be cured naturally, changes in lifestyle and diet can help manage prostate health.
If you’re suffering from BPH symptoms that interfere with your daily life, then why not schedule a consultation with one of our Board Certified Vascular and Interventional Radiologists? They can discuss your condition and see if you’re a good candidate for Prostate Artery Embolization – a minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate that is performed on an outpatient basis. The treatment is covered by insurance and will give you back the life you used to have. Call MINT today or use our online booking service.
