Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects men. In addition to conventional medical treatments, some natural cures are also available that can be effective in containing and treating this condition.
Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland, which is responsible for producing seminal fluid. It is located under the urinary bladder, in front of the rectum. This cancer is quite difficult to diagnose in the early stage, as it usually does not produce any specific symptoms. Therefore, the cancer remains undiagnosed and untreated in many instances.
Sometimes, the condition can cause painful urination, frequent urination, presence of blood in urine, painful ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction. Though the exact causes of this cancer are not known, it is believed that genetics, age, diet, lifestyle, and certain medications can play an important role in the development of the disease.
It has been observed that the risk of prostate cancer increases with advancing age, especially after 40 years, due to hormonal changes. The level of testosterone in men declines after 40 years, while the level of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and estrogen increases. Dihydrotestosterone is the hormone responsible for causing prostate enlargement by stimulating the growth of cells. On the other hand, estrogen prevents the elimination of DHT, and thereby worsens the condition.
Prevention of Prostate Cancer Through Natural Remedies
The usual treatment options for this cancer are surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, and cryotherapy. In addition to these conventional therapies, the popularity of natural cures have grown rapidly in the recent times, which are discussed below.
Foods
Many studies and research have indicated an association between the increased consumption of animal-based foods like red meat, eggs, and dairy products, and the rising incidence of prostate cancer. These animal-based foods contain the growth hormones given to the particular animals, which may be responsible for stimulating the proliferation of the cells of the prostate gland and ovaries. Therefore, a reduction in the consumption of animal-based foods, with a consequent increase in the consumption of fruits and vegetables can have a beneficial effect.
According to some studies, tomatoes, guavas, broccoli, and watermelons can reduce the risk of prostate cancer, as they are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can prevent and reduce the size of the prostate tumors. In addition to these, fructose, the sugar found in fruits can increase the synthesis of vitamin D, which can inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors in the prostate gland. Soy products and garlic contain some cancer-fighting substances, and so, they can also help reduce the risk of this cancer.
Herbs
Saw palmetto, pygeum, and cernilton are some important herbal remedies for prostate cancer. Saw palmetto is a traditional North American treatment for prostate enlargement, and it can reduce the level of DHT and estrogen in men. Pygeum is an African remedy for prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Cernilton is also used for both BPH and prostatitis. Stinging nettle is another important herb that can help maintain the health of the prostate gland.
Minerals and Vitamins
Sometimes, the deficiency of certain minerals like zinc and selenium can also affect the prostate gland. Zinc can help reduce the enlargement of the gland by changing the metabolism of the steroid hormones, while selenium is important for maintaining prostate health. So, zinc- and selenium-rich foods or supplements may lower the risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin D can help inhibit the growth of the prostate tumors. Being a natural antioxidant, vitamin E can also inhibit the growth of the cancerous cells.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is considered one of the most important alternative treatment options for many diseases. This therapy is based on the principle that a substance that triggers a disease in a healthy individual, can help treat the same disease, if it is administered in very small dosage.
Therefore along with conventional medical treatment, herbs, and lifestyle and dietary modifications can help reduce the severity and the incidence of this cancer. But be sure to consult a herbalist or a health care provider before using herbs and supplements for treating this cancer, as their excessive intake can cause some potentially serious side effects.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be replaced for the advice of a medical professional.
