Remedies for Prostatitis


There are some home remedies for prostatitis which may help to alleviate the symptoms:

  • The pain of prostatitis may reduce with a warm bath. Fill a tub with warm water and sit in it for about 20 minutes.
  • If the pain and swelling of the prostate is severe, it is advisable to sit on a pillow or cushion. Avoid any hard seats or surfaces which may worsen the pain.
  • Hot and cold compresses may help to reduce swelling and pain caused by prostatitis. Heat helps to relax the inflamed tissues and cold helps to tone the muscle fibers.
  • Your doctor may advise you to avoid spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine. Some people with prostatitis may experience aggravated symptoms when they consume citrus fruits.
  • It is advisable to urinate frequently and to empty the bladder fully. This helps to ease strain on the prostate.
  • Keep the genital area clean at all times to prevent recurring infection.
  • Pumpkin seeds have diuretic properties and contain high levels of zinc which boosts immunity and helps the body to repair itself. You can eat the seeds plain or add them to tea.
  • Fish is known to protect against prostate disorders due to its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Vegetables juices such as carrot juice are known to be effective in relieving symptoms of prostatitis.
  • Since stress may aggravate your symptoms, it is advisable to practice relaxation, yoga and deep breathing to reduce stress in your life.

Certain alternative therapies may be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of prostatitis:

  • Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into the skin at various points on the body. Some studies indicate that this therapy may help to reduce prostatitis symptoms.
  • Stinging nettle is known to have a protective effect on the cell membranes of the prostate gland.
  • The use of essential oils to massage the lower back and abdomen may help to alleviate the symptoms of prostatitis. Oils such as sandalwood, eucalyptus and chamomile are known to have anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties.
It is important to consult your doctor before taking any herbal remedies or dietary supplements for prostatitis. 
References
  1. Richard Chen, J.Curtis Nickel, Acupuncture ameliorates symptoms in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, Urology, Volume 61, Issue 6, June 2003, Pages 1156-1159, ISSN 0090-4295, 10.1016/S0090-4295(03)00141-9.
  2. V. Steenkamp, M.C. Gouws, M. Gulumian, E.E. Elgorashi, J. van Staden, Studies on antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of herbal remedies used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 103, Issue 1, 3 January 2006, Pages 71-75, ISSN 0378-8741, 10.1016/j.jep.2005.07.007. (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105004630)