Until the recent wave of clinical trials on natural prostate gland supplements, if you were curious about herbal remedies, you had to rely on anecdotal evidence and word of mouth to support the value of natural agents in treating prostate disease.

Here we take a close look at the emerging scientific evidence on the effectiveness and safety of some of the most popular herbal and naturally occurring treatments for BPH and prostate cancer.

The three most common problems with the prostate are prostate inflammation (prostatitis), prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)), and prostate cancer. There are numerous natural supplements that are useful in maintaining excellent prostate health.

Saw palmetto, pygeum africanum, stinging nettle and beta-sitosterol are all effective in dealing with an enlarged prostate and its attendant problems.

Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto (Latin name serenoa repens), a small fruit-bearing palm tree native to the southeastern U.S. and the Caribbean, is fast becoming known as the premier herb for the treatment of BPH.

Clusters of white blossoms sprout from the ends of the plant, which earned its name due to its characteristic serrated, saw-tooth tipped palm fronds. The blossoms ripen into deep brown or black berries used to produce a potent, BPH-fighting extract. Natural health practitioners also use it to treat PMS, urinary tract infections, decreased libido, and cough associated with the common cold.

Long known for its various healing properties, Native American tribes used it to soothe insect bites and skin wounds. The plant saw its first patient-care application as a remedy for prostate-related conditions in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, saw palmetto is widely prescribed for BPH therapy throughout Europe. Germany’s Commission E, a government panel of medical and pharmaceutical professionals, has approved the herb for the treatment of mild to moderate cases of enlarged prostate at the dosage of 320 mg per day.

Dozens of controlled clinical studies have proven saw palmetto as effective and safe in relieving prostate swelling associated with BPH.

The Journal of the American Medical Association in 1998 analyzed 18 controlled clinical trials on saw palmetto and concluded that “… the evidence suggests that (saw palmetto) improves urologic symptoms and flow measures. Compared with finasteride, (saw palmetto) produces similar improvement in urinary tract symptoms and urinary flow and was associated with fewer adverse treatment events.”

Red Clover – a member of the pea family, red clover contains powerful antioxidants that fight off cancerous growths. Red clover inhibits DHT formation, thus inhibiting enlargement of the prostate gland and the symptoms that accompany it.

Zinc – an important mineral for many bodily processes, a zinc deficiency predisposes the prostate gland to infection, which could eventually lead to enlargement.

Vitamin B6 – along with zinc, Vitamin B6 regulates the hormone that converts testosterone to DHT, and helps prevent swelling of the prostate.

Lycopene – this extract from tomatoes contains powerful antioxidants that may be able to reduce BPH inflammation and prevent prostate cancer.

Ginkgo Biloba – Gingko improves circulation to the penis as well as acts to alleviate the symptoms of depression which may be a cause of impotence. Gingko also stimulates the mind and helps with concentration.

Gotu Kola – Gotu kola improves circulation as well as enhances mental performance and concentration.

Muira Puama – Muira puama has been shown to increase both male and female sex drive, as well as help maintain erections. Muira puama may also help balance sexual hormone levels.

Tribulus – Tribulus has been shown to help with impotence and infertility, as well as stimulate hormone production.

L-Arginine – this essential amino acid has been shown to increase blood flow to the penis.