What is Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)? How it can be treated by ayurvedic remedies

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly affects older men. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder, surrounding the urethra. As the gland enlarges, it can compress the urethra, leading to urinary problems such as:

• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)

• Difficulty in starting and stopping urination

• Weak or interrupted urine flow

• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

• Dribbling at the end of urination

BPH is primarily caused by hormonal changes with aging, particularly an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels. Chronic inflammation and poor lifestyle choices may also contribute to the condition.

Ayurvedic Approach to BPH Treatment

Ayurveda focuses on balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and improving urinary function naturally. In BPH, an imbalance of Vata dosha (which controls movement, including urination) is often responsible for the condition. Ayurvedic remedies help in reducing prostate size, improving urine flow, and strengthening the urinary system.

1. Ayurvedic Herbs for BPH

Several Ayurvedic herbs have been traditionally used to treat prostate enlargement:

• Varuna (Crataeva nurvala): Helps in reducing prostate swelling and improving urine flow.

• Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris): Acts as a diuretic and strengthens the urinary system.

• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Supports reproductive health and reduces inflammation.

• Kanchnaar (Bauhinia variegata): Helps in reducing glandular swellings, including prostate enlargement.

• Pashanbheda (Bergenia ligulata): Prevents urinary infections and aids in smooth urine flow.

• Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): Acts as a natural diuretic and reduces prostate-related swelling.

2. Ayurvedic Formulations for BPH

• Chandraprabha Vati: A classical Ayurvedic medicine used to support prostate health and improve urinary function.

• Gokshuradi Guggulu: Helps in reducing inflammation and supports urinary function.

• Shilajit Rasayana: Strengthens the reproductive and urinary system.

• Kanchnaar Guggulu: Helps in shrinking glandular swellings like BPH.

3. Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

• Increase fluid intake: Drink warm water with a pinch of turmeric to reduce inflammation.

• Include fiber-rich foods: Such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to prevent constipation, which can worsen BPH symptoms.

• Avoid spicy, oily, and processed foods: These can aggravate Pitta and worsen inflammation.

• Regular exercise and yoga: Poses like Vajrasana and Malasana help in improving urinary flow.

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These can irritate the bladder and increase urinary frequency.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic remedies for BPH focus on herbal treatments, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and improve prostate health. Regular use of Ayurvedic medicines along with a balanced lifestyle can help in naturally reducing prostate enlargement and preventing complications.