Prostate health
Enlarged prostate natural remedies: what helps and what doesn’t
An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects many men over 50. Here is an honest look at enlarged prostate natural remedies, from daily habits to supplements.
In short: Lifestyle measures have good support for easing BPH symptoms: limiting evening fluids, caffeine and alcohol, double voiding, bladder training and staying active. Among supplements, beta-sitosterol and pumpkin seed have some evidence for symptom relief, while large trials found saw palmetto no better than placebo. No natural remedy has been shown to shrink the prostate.
What is BPH?
The prostate gland surrounds the urethra. As men age, it often grows and can squeeze the urethra, causing:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- A weak or interrupted stream
- Difficulty starting
- Dribbling
- Feeling the bladder has not emptied
See frequent urination in men.
Lifestyle habits that help
Manage fluids wisely
Drink enough during the day, but reduce fluids in the two hours before bed.
Cut caffeine and alcohol
Both irritate the bladder and increase urine production.
Double voiding
After urinating, wait 30 seconds and try again.
Bladder training
Gradually increase the time between bathroom visits to improve bladder capacity.
Stay active and keep a healthy weight
Inactivity and excess weight are linked with worse symptoms.
Watch certain medicines
Decongestants and some antihistamines can worsen symptoms. Ask your pharmacist.
Natural supplements: the evidence
- Beta-sitosterol: plant sterols that have improved urinary flow and symptoms in some studies, without shrinking the prostate. African potato is a natural source. See African potato benefits for men.
- Pumpkin seed extract: some evidence for symptom relief. See pumpkin seeds benefits for men.
- Rye grass pollen and pygeum: small studies suggest modest benefits.
- Saw palmetto: despite its popularity, large trials found it was no better than placebo. See saw palmetto benefits for men.
Diet
A diet rich in vegetables, fruit, healthy fats and fibre, with less red and processed meat, supports prostate and heart health. Tomatoes (lycopene) and green tea are often recommended, although evidence for BPH is limited.
When to see a medical professional
Get checked if you notice blood in the urine, pain, fever, sudden inability to urinate (an emergency), or symptoms that affect your sleep and quality of life. Urinary symptoms can also be caused by infection, diabetes or, less often, prostate cancer, so assessment matters. See prostate health symptoms men shouldn’t ignore.
How we can help
Our naturopaths can build a natural plan for prostate and bladder comfort, check supplements for interactions, and work alongside your medical care.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can an enlarged prostate be shrunk naturally?
No natural remedy has been shown to shrink the prostate, but lifestyle changes and some supplements may ease symptoms.
What is the most effective natural remedy for BPH?
Lifestyle measures such as limiting evening fluids, caffeine and alcohol have good support. Beta-sitosterol has some evidence for symptom relief.
Does saw palmetto work for an enlarged prostate?
Large trials found saw palmetto was no better than placebo for urinary symptoms.
When should I see someone about prostate symptoms?
If you have blood in the urine, pain, fever, cannot urinate, or symptoms affect your sleep, get checked.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
