Natural Supplements for Prostate Health
By Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto | Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wokingham
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland — affects the majority of men over 50 and produces troublesome urinary symptoms including frequency, urgency, weak stream, and nocturia. Traditional Chinese medicine has treated this pattern for centuries under the classification of kidney yang deficiency with dampness obstructing the lower burner — and several natural supplements have strong evidence for symptom relief.
Evidence-Based Supplements
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) — the most widely studied natural prostate supplement. Inhibits 5-alpha reductase (the same mechanism as finasteride) and reduces DHT-driven prostate growth. Multiple clinical trials show improvements in urinary flow and symptom scores comparable to alpha-blockers in mild to moderate BPH.
Beta-sitosterol — a plant sterol found in pumpkin seeds, rye grass, and pygeum. Improves urinary flow and reduces post-void residual volume. Strong evidence across several RCTs.
Zinc — the prostate has the highest zinc concentration of any body tissue and zinc deficiency is strongly associated with prostate enlargement and prostate cancer risk. 25–30mg daily supports prostate health.
Lycopene — the red carotenoid in tomatoes accumulates in prostate tissue and has anti-proliferative effects. Higher dietary lycopene intake is associated with reduced BPH and prostate cancer risk.
TCM Treatment
In TCM, BPH reflects kidney yang deficiency with accumulation of dampness and blood stasis in the lower burner. Treatment combines kidney yang tonics with dampness-draining and blood-moving herbs. Acupuncture at points including CV 3 (Zhongji), BL 23 (Shenshu), and SP 9 (Yinlingquan) directly supports bladder and kidney function. I prescribe pharmaceutical-grade granules from Sun Ten in Taiwan.
To discuss prostate health, contact me or book a consultation in Wokingham.
