Herbal treatment for Prostate Cancer
Herbal treatment for Prostate Cancer
Herbal treatment for prostate cancer is designed to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, stop pain and improve symptoms. It also reduces the side effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, prevents and treats post-surgery syndrome, enhances immunity, prevents relapse and increases survival rate. The purpose of herbal treatment for prostate cancer is not to take the place of necessary orthodox medical treatment but to boost energy and strong body for better health and quality of life. Combination of the both is a better choice. Some of the herbal treatments for prostate cancer are given below:
Green Tea
It has been found that there is a potent plant substance called polyphenols in green tea, which is a very effective killer of prostate cancer cells. It helps men with early prostate cancer stave off more advanced stages. To maximize the polyphenol concentration, steep the tea for five minutes in 8 ounces of water. It was also found that one of the compounds in green tea called epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG, has a special affinity for prostate cancer cells and can stop the growth of prostate cancer dead in its tracks.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a carotenoid and is found primarily in tomatoes, and men who eat lots of cooked tomatoes have very low rates of prostate cancer. Studies have shown that high intake of lycopene-containing foods or high lycopene serum reduces incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and macular degeneration. Since it is found that lycopene can actually kill prostate cancer cells, it is used as an herbal treatment for prostate cancer.
Saw palmetto
Saw palmetto is thought to work by preventing testosterone from breaking down into another form of the hormone called dihydrotestosterone, which is associated with prostate tissue growth. It is used primarily as a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It may improve urinary flow rate and may cause shrinkage in the size of the prostate. Side effects from saw palmetto are rare, primarily limited to mild digestive distress. One of the possible side effects is that it may suppress PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels in your blood.
Broccoli Sprouts
Studies have shown that men who eat lots of broccoli have a lower risk of getting prostate cancer. A compound called sulforaphane, which is abundant in broccoli, is the secret ingredient responsible for this connection, which increases certain enzymes in the body, called phase 2 enzymes that deactivate cancer-causing chemicals. When prostate cancer cells were exposed to sulforaphane, the compound inhibited the growth of the cancer cells up to 80 percent in laboratory tests.
Selenium
Selenium, an essential trace mineral found in the soil is present in foods like oatmeal, brown rice, seafood and meats that we eat, such as chicken and beef. Selenium is a major antioxidant that keeps our blood vessels healthy and protects us from heart disease. However, some of selenium's most powerful effects are on the prostate gland. Recent study has shown that selenium cut the rate of prostate cancer by 63%!
Pumpkin seeds
The prostate needs a ready supply of zinc to function properly and Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of zinc. The prostate stores more zinc than any other part of the body. The level of zinc in the prostate gland declines dramatically in men suffering from prostate cancer or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Other natural sources of zinc are chicken, barley, oysters, crab, and wheat.
Pygeum
Another popular herbal treatment for prostate cancer promoted by a number of studies is pygeum. Pygeum is an herb derived from tree bark and contains chemicals that inhibit DHT synthesis and is often used to treat enlarged prostate. It reduces the hormone prolactin, therefore lowering cholesterol and testosterone uptake and accumulation in the prostate. It is also helpful in increasing urine flow, decrease residua urine and improve sexual performance.
Aside from these herbs, herbs like Cernilton, stinging nettle and Maitake mushroom are also used to cure prostate disorders. Herbal treatments for prostate cancer have not been studied scientifically and should be approached with caution, as there may be some side effects. Therefore before taking any herbs talk with your health care provider. If the herbal treatments don't show their effect there are some alternative prostate cancer treatments also.