Prostatitis - causes, symptoms and natural therapies

Introduction: When the prostate goes on strike

A sudden burning sensation when urinating, a constant urge to urinate or pain in the abdomen - such symptoms can indicate prostatitis. **Prostatitis** is an inflammation of the prostate (prostate gland) and is one of the most common urological diagnoses in men. It is estimated that 5-10% of all men will experience prostatitis at least once in their lifetime【1】. Men between the ages of around 35 and 50 are particularly affected, but prostatitis can occur at any age. It is important to note that prostatitis is not the same as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While an enlarged prostate (BPH) - causes, symptoms and modern therapies - mainly causes problems for older men due to the growth of the gland, prostatitis is an inflammatory process that often occurs acutely. All-clear: Neither BPH nor prostatitis mean prostate cancer, but both can have a serious impact on life.

In contrast to benign enlargement (which is usually hormonal), acute prostatitis is usually caused by bacteria. Typically, intestinal bacteria such as *E. coli* reach the prostate via the urethra and trigger an infection there. Such acute bacterial prostatitis is often accompanied by a severe feeling of illness and fever. However, there are also chronic forms in which no pathogens can be detected - doctors refer to this as *chronic pelvic pain syndrome* (CPPS). In fact, around 90% of all cases of prostatitis are of this chronic, abacterial variant【8】. This makes treatment difficult, as there is often no clear cause. Stress, previous infections, tension in the pelvic floor or immune reactions are discussed as triggers. Many sufferers have a long ordeal behind them before a diagnosis is made. The good news is that, whether acute or chronic, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and bring the prostate back to normal. In this guide, you will find out how to recognize prostatitis and which natural therapies you can use to do your prostate good (in addition to medical treatment). We strictly adhere to the EU Health Claims guidelines and rely on current scientific sources. Let's go!

Symptoms: How you can recognize prostatitis

The symptoms of **prostatitis** can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. However, a combination of local discomfort in the pelvis and problems urinating is typical. Here is an overview of possible symptoms of prostatitis:

• Pain in the pelvic area: sufferers often feel pain or a dull pressure in the lower back, in the perineum (area between the testicles and anus) or deep in the lower abdomen. Pain in the testicles or groin can also occur. In acute bacterial prostatitis, the pain can be very severe, whereas in chronic cases it tends to cause diffuse discomfort.
• Problems urinating: An inflamed prostate swells and presses on the urethra. This makes it difficult to urinate. Typical signs are a weak urine stream, difficulty starting (delay in urine flow) and the feeling of never being able to empty the bladder completely. Many men have to go to the toilet *more frequently*, especially at night (nocturia). Urination can also be *burning* or painful.
• Frequent urge to urinate: An irritated prostate can send constant signals even though the bladder is barely full. The result: you feel like you have to go to the toilet all the time. This constant urge is a major problem in everyday life, especially with chronic prostatitis.
• Pain during or after ejaculation: As the prostate is involved in the production of seminal fluid, inflammation can lead to pain during or directly after ejaculation. Some men also notice blood in the ejaculate - another warning sign that should be checked out by a doctor.
• General feeling of illness: Acute prostatitis is often accompanied by **fever**, chills, fatigue and even circulatory problems. In such cases, the prostate is very sensitive to pressure. This acute picture is similar to flu and should be treated immediately. Chronic courses, on the other hand, are rarely accompanied by fever, but can have a huge impact on quality of life - persistent pain and sleep disturbances due to the need to urinate at night often lead to exhaustion.

Important: The symptoms of prostatitis sometimes overlap with other illnesses. For example, cystitis or an enlarged prostate (BPH ) can cause similar symptoms. Pain during ejaculation could also theoretically have other causes. A urologist should therefore always be consulted if symptoms are severe or persistent. He or she can use examinations - such as urine tests, palpation of the prostate and ultrasound - to determine whether an inflammation is actually present. High fever, blood in the urine/sperm or acute urinary retention (when there is suddenly no urine at all) are alarm signals - do not hesitate in such cases and seek medical help immediately!

Causes and types of prostatitis

There are various forms of prostatitis, which differ in their causes and course:

• Acute bacterial prostatitis (category I): Here the cause is clear - a bacterial infection. Bacteria usually ascend from the urethra into the prostate. Risk factors are, for example, *urinary tract infections*, unprotected anal intercourse (transmission of intestinal bacteria) or a permanently inserted urinary catheter. Acute prostatitis begins suddenly and violently with severe pain, fever and often blood in the urine. The prostate is purulently inflamed; sometimes abscesses form. This form is serious, but fortunately relatively rare (around 2-5% of cases). It can usually be treated well with antibiotics, but it is important that the treatment lasts long enough (at least 4-6 weeks) to ensure that all germs are killed.
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis (category II): These are recurrent or protracted infections of the prostate. There is often a bacterial focus in the gland that does not heal completely despite antibiotics. It is typical that the symptoms become milder in the meantime, but flare up again and again. In some cases, *prostate stones* are present in which bacteria can hide. Chronic bacterial prostatitis accounts for only about 5% of all prostatitis cases. When it occurs, the pathogens are usually similar to those in acute infections (e.g. *E. coli* or *enterococci*). Consistent, often long-term antibiotic therapy is indicated here, sometimes combined with other measures.
• Chronic abacterial prostatitis / CPPS (category III): This is by far the most common form (90% of all cases). Here, **no** pathogens are found in the prostate or urine, but patients still suffer from chronic prostatitis symptoms. A distinction is made between an *inflammatory* type (IIIA, with increased inflammatory cells in the prostate secretions) and a *non-inflammatory* type (IIIB, also known as prostatodynia). The causes are not clearly understood - it is probably a combination of various factors. Discussed are

• Pelvic floor tension: Many men with CPPS have tender, tense pelvic floor muscles. Trigger point examinations often show pronounced muscle tenderness in the pelvic area. It is possible that constant muscular stress leads to pain that is projected onto the prostate.
• Nerve irritation / neuropathy: Chronic inflammation or back problems could make the nerve tracts that supply the prostate more sensitive. The sensation of pain is then increased, even though there is no current infection.
• Immunological factors: One theory is that a previous infection or other stimuli trigger a permanent immune reaction in the prostate. This results in a kind of *autoimmune inflammation* that continues to smoulder without a pathogen.
• Psychosomatic influences: Stress, anxiety and depression can exacerbate physical pain - and conversely, constant pain can be psychologically demoralizing. Chronic prostatitis often involves a vicious circle of pain and mental stress. Studies show that the majority of CPPS patients suffer from accompanying mental illnesses; in one study, up to 78% reported depressive moods. Stress is considered a possible trigger and intensifier of CPPS symptoms. Those affected often report that relapses occur more frequently in stressful phases of life. (It helps to integrate relaxation techniques and coping strategies into everyday life - more on this later).

• Asymptomatic prostatitis (category IV): For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that there are also asymptomatic prostatitis. In this case, for example, inflammatory cells are found in the prostate during a screening examination without the man having any symptoms. This form is usually clinically insignificant and does not require treatment - unless there are special reasons (e.g. unfulfilled desire to have children in connection with inflammatory prostate secretions).

As you can see, prostatitis is a complex field. Chronic pelvic pain syndrome in particular often requires detective work to find the personal triggers and effective therapies. Depending on the findings, antibiotics, alpha blockers (to relax the bladder muscles) or anti-inflammatory painkillers are used as standard. However, these medications do not always have the desired effect, especially in the case of chronic prostatitis. Many men therefore look for complementary and natural approaches to get their symptoms under control. In the next section, we present exactly these *natural therapies and home remedies* in detail. However, the following point is important: In the case of acute bacterial prostatitis, there is no way around classic antibiotic therapy - naturopathy can only have a supportive effect here. Natural measures therefore do not replace a visit to the doctor, but can help to promote healing and increase well-being. This is particularly true for chronic prostatitis, where conventional medicine often finds "nothing abnormal" and you are faced with the challenge of improving your quality of life despite persistent symptoms. So let's take a look at what you can do yourself to do something good for your prostate.

Natural therapies and home remedies for prostatitis

Does drinking a lot help? Which herbs are useful? Can I influence the inflammation through diet? - Almost all sufferers ask themselves questions like these. The good news is that there are actually a number of **home remedies and naturopathic approaches** that provide relief for many men. While no single herbal pill can "conjure away" prostatitis, naturopathy works in a number of different areas: Inhibiting inflammation, soothing the bladder, relaxing cramped muscles and strengthening the immune system. A holistic approach is important - the combination of several measures often makes all the difference【4】. We present the most important natural therapies here. All the recommended methods are gentle and have few side effects, so you can easily use them alongside medical treatment. (However, if you are unsure, always talk to your urologist, especially if you are already taking medication).

Heat and relaxation for pain

A simple home remedy that many prostatitis patients find beneficial is **heat**. Heat relaxes the muscles and promotes blood circulation in the pelvis - just the thing for cramped, painful areas. Try the following, for example:

• Warm sitz baths: fill a bathtub or sitz bath with pleasantly warm water (around 37-39 °C) and bathe your abdomen in it for 15-20 minutes. Additives such as chamomile extract or oak bark extract can also have an anti-inflammatory effect (no promise of a cure, only traditional use). The heat relaxes the pelvic floor muscles and many men report that this noticeably relieves the pressure pain. It is best used daily or as required - e.g. in the evening before going to bed to help you relax at night.
• Hot water bottle or heating pad: A classic hot water bottle on the lower abdomen or between the legs (place carefully under the perineum while sitting) can also provide relief. Make sure that the temperature is comfortable and that there is no risk of burns. Warming creams (ointments that promote blood circulation) in the lower back/perineal area are another option.
• Keep warm and promote circulation: Dress warmly, especially in cool weather - cold feet or a cold abdomen can exacerbate discomfort. Gentle abdominal massages or regular visits to the sauna (if your circulation is stable) also stimulate blood circulation in the pelvic floor and help the body to release tension. In a small study, for example, heat therapy (therapeutic ultrasound) showed good effects on prostatitis pain, which underpins the benefits of heat. (*Scientific evidence of the benefits is not yet conclusive; further studies required*)

In addition to external heat, **internal relaxation** is often necessary: chronic pain leads to stress and tension - and stress in turn can increase the perception of pain. The result is a vicious circle. Here are a few tips to give your body and mind some rest:

• Relaxation techniques: Techniques such as *progressive muscle relaxation*, *autogenic training* or yoga can help to reduce general tension. For example, many CPPS patients report improvement when they regularly practise breathing exercises and meditation. Such methods have been shown to reduce stress hormones and can increase pain tolerance - an important component in dealing with chronic pelvic pain.
• Psychological support: Severe chronic cases are often accompanied by depression or depressive moods. There is no shame in seeking psychological help. Specialized pain therapists or behavioral therapists can provide strategies on how to live better with pain. Studies suggest that targeted cognitive-behavioral therapy training (e.g. to reduce *catastrophic thinking* about the pain) can significantly improve the quality of life with CPPS. Exchanges in self-help groups can also be relieving - knowing that you are not alone helps enormously psychologically.

The aim is to create a relaxation mode for the body so that the continuous loop of "pain-tension-more pain" is broken. Warmth and relaxation therefore form the basis of natural therapy. But there is more you can do - from the inside out.

Nutrition and hydration: treating the prostate kindly

"You are what you eat" - this motto also applies to the prostate. A generally healthy diet supports your immune system and can have a positive effect on inflammatory processes in the body. Although there is no specific "prostatitis diet", the following recommendations have proven to be effective:

• Drink plenty of fluids: a high fluid intake (at least 2-3 liters daily, especially water or herbal tea) keeps the urinary tract flushed. This is particularly important after bacterial prostatitis in order to flush out any remaining germs. In addition, concentrated urine and infrequent urination can irritate the bladder - frequent drinking dilutes the urine and can alleviate the symptoms. **Caution:** If you have acute problems urinating (severe urinary retention), discuss the amount you drink with your doctor. Otherwise: drink, drink, drink.
• Avoid irritants: Many men find that certain stimulants make their symptoms worse. The main candidates are *alcohol*, *caffeine* (coffee, cola, energy drinks) as well as *hot spices* and very *acidic foods*. These can irritate the bladder and prostate. Try to avoid alcohol and spicy foods for a while and see if you feel better. Alcohol in particular has a diuretic and vasodilatory effect, which can be counterproductive if you have an inflamed prostate. The usual recommendation is therefore: little to no alcohol and moderate caffeine until the inflammation has subsided.
• Anti-inflammatory diet: Focus more on foods that counteract inflammatory reactions. These include *omega-3 fatty acids* (oily sea fish such as salmon, walnuts, linseed), plenty of *fruit and vegetables* (rich in antioxidants), and spices such as *turmeric* and *ginger*. Omega-3 fats are known for their anti-inflammatory effects - studies show that they can generally be helpful for chronic inflammation in the body (e.g. rheumatism). Although there is not yet a specific approved health claim for prostatitis, eating more fish instead of red meat will not do any harm. At the same time, you should reduce highly processed foods, sugary drinks and excessive consumption of red meat, as these can promote inflammatory processes.
• Fiber and gut health: Constipation puts pressure on the prostate - not ideal if it is inflamed anyway. Therefore, make sure you eat a diet rich in fiber (whole grain products, vegetables, fruit) to keep your digestion going. A healthy gut also has an influence on the immune system. There are initial indications that the *microbiome* could play a role in prostatitis, e.g. with regard to recurring urinary tract infections. In consultation with the doctor, the use of **probiotics** may also be useful in some cases to strengthen the intestinal flora - however, the field of research on this is still young (*not yet confirmed by EFSA; further studies required*).

To summarize: A balanced, more plant-based diet with plenty of fluids creates an environment in which your prostate can recover better. You relieve your body, provide it with important nutrients and avoid stimuli that would unnecessarily "add fuel to the fire". Acutely inflamed prostates in particular will thank you if you spare them spicy foods and alcohol. And if you smoke: nicotine also has a negative effect on blood circulation - a good time to stop smoking (your prostate and your whole body will thank you for it).

Exercise and pelvic floor training

Even if you would prefer to take it easy when you have pelvic pain: **Moderate exercise** can definitely help with prostatitis. Physical activity improves blood circulation (including to the prostate) and promotes lymphatic drainage, which can remove inflammatory substances more quickly. Exercise also reduces stress hormones. Here are a few tips in this area:

• Regular, light exercise: Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day - be it a brisk walk, cycling on the exercise bike (with a soft saddle!) or swimming. Intensive sports such as mountain biking on uneven trails or strength training with strong pressing pressure are less suitable in the acute phase, as they could strain the pelvic floor. However, light endurance exercise is ideal. Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve the quality of life of men with CPPS, presumably through the combination of endorphin release and relaxation effects on the muscles.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Many people are not aware that the pelvic floor can be tensed as well as specifically relaxed. Physiotherapists or urologists can teach special exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and relieve tension. For example, *Kegel exercises* (rhythmic tensing and releasing of the pelvic floor muscles) help to develop a feeling for this muscle area. Important: CPPS often requires **relaxation** rather than strengthening. An experienced physio can offer you manual trigger point therapy - this involves feeling and loosening painful muscle hardening in the pelvic floor. In one study, pressure points in the pelvic floor muscles were found to be painful in over 50% of men with chronic prostatitis, and their treatment led to symptom relief. So don't hesitate to seek professional help here (*Scientific evidence of the benefits is not yet conclusive; further studies required*).
• Avoid prolonged sitting on hard surfaces: Many of us sit in the office for hours on end - bad for the prostate! In case of acute pain, a soft seat cushion (or a special prostate ring) can help enormously to relieve the pressure on the perineal area. Also, get up regularly, walk around or do stretching exercises to stimulate the blood flow. A rule of thumb: move briefly every 30 minutes.
• Sexuality: Although this is not a classic "workout", it is still important: regular ejaculation can help to empty the prostate and prevent congestion. In the past, this was referred to as the "emptying effect" - in fact, some urologists recommend a balanced sex life for chronic prostatitis (as long as it doesn't hurt). **Caution:** In the case of acute bacterial prostatitis, sexual intercourse should be avoided until the infection has subsided so as not to endanger the partner and to allow the prostate to rest. In the case of chronic prostatitis, on the other hand, moderate sex (or masturbation) can provide relief. Listen to your body: if it's good for you, there's nothing wrong with it.

Overall, exercise supports your healing on several levels - physically and mentally. The important thing is to find the right balance: Don't overdo it (high-performance sport is not the time), but don't become a couch potato either. A daily walk in the fresh air can work wonders: You boost your blood circulation, clear your head and do something for your heart and circulation at the same time. Your prostate doesn't like constant pelvic rigidity, so get moving!

Herbal helpers: herbs and extracts for the prostate

Phytotherapy (herbal medicine) has some interesting **medicinal plants** that are traditionally used for prostate problems. You may already be familiar with some of them from the treatment of benign prostate enlargement - in fact, the natural remedies for BPH and prostatitis overlap to some extent. Important to know: Most herbal preparations aim to alleviate the symptoms (e.g. through decongestant, anti-inflammatory or hormone-modulating effects). They are therefore intended as supportive therapy and do not replace any antibiotics that may be necessary in the event of a bacterial infection. Nevertheless, studies show that some plant extracts can have significant benefits. Here are the best-known **active plant substances for the prostate** and what science says about them:

• Saw palmetto extract (Serenoa repens): Saw palmetto is a classic for prostate conditions. Its extract from the berries has been used for decades for BPH to improve symptoms such as frequent urination. Saw palmetto has also been tested for prostatitis and CPPS: the plant has a slight *anti-inflammatory* and *decongestant* effect on the tissue. In an Italian study, for example, 157 chronic prostatitis patients were given either saw palmetto (Permixon®) or the drug tamsulosin; after 6 weeks, over 75% of the men in the saw palmetto group reported a significant improvement【9】【10】 - comparable to the effectiveness of the chemical agent, particularly in terms of pain relief. Combinations of saw palmetto with other natural substances also showed good results: A preparation containing saw palmetto, lycopene (tomato antioxidant) and selenium improved symptoms significantly more than saw palmetto alone【9】 in one study. Conclusion: Saw palmetto may be worth a try for chronic prostatitis symptoms, especially if irritative urinary tract problems are in the foreground. (Official note: *The links between saw palmetto extract and relief of prostate symptoms have not yet been confirmed by EFSA; further studies required*)
• Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed extract (Cucurbita pepo): The **pumpkin** is also a proven home remedy for prostate problems. Pumpkin seeds contain beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol that has an anti-inflammatory effect and can improve bladder function. In relation to BPH, meta-analyses show that beta-sitosterol improves urinary flow rate and reduces nocturnal urination. (*The links between pumpkin seed extract and the relief of prostate symptoms have not yet been confirmed by EFSA; further studies required.*) Studies on prostatitis are scarce, but due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is worth incorporating pumpkin seeds into your diet (e.g. a handful a day) or trying special pumpkin seed extract preparations. Pumpkin seeds also provide a lot of **zinc**, a trace element that is important for the prostate. Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system and supports normal testosterone levels in the blood (approved health claim). Many prostate patients have an increased zinc consumption - it can therefore make sense to take a little more zinc with food (e.g. also via nuts, oatmeal or as a supplement).
• Stinging nettle root (Urtica dioica): Stinging nettle is known as the "man's herb", especially its root. It is often used in combination preparations with saw palmetto. Nettle root can have an inflammation-modulating effect and mild decongestant effects. In a study of chronic prostatitis, nettle together with quercetin was able to reduce the relapse rate after antibiotic therapy. Nettle is also diuretic - which helps to flush out the urinary tract. Many prostate tea blends therefore contain nettle leaves. Note: Don't expect miracles, but as a building block, nettle is a safe and inexpensive option. (*Not yet confirmed by EFSA; further studies required.*)
• Rye pollen extract (Secale cereale): Rye pollen is less well known, but quite remarkable in terms of the study situation. A specially prepared pollen extract (trade name Cernilton®) was tested in several clinical studies in CPPS. Result: Pollen extract was able to significantly improve pain and general well-being. In a placebo-controlled study from Germany, 70% of men taking rye pollen reported noticeable symptom relief【3】 after 12 weeks, compared to 50% in the placebo group. Quality of life and freedom from pain in particular increased. Among other things, pollen contains substances that inhibit the production of prostaglandins that promote inflammation. This effect could explain the observed improvement. For you this means: A trial with pollen extract (available as capsules) could be worthwhile, especially if pain is the main problem - but talk to your doctor first if you are allergic (pollen!). (*The links between rye pollen extract and relief of prostatitis symptoms have not yet been confirmed by the EFSA; further studies required.*)
• Green tea (Camellia sinensis): Green tea is rich in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a polyphenol with strong antioxidant properties. In the laboratory, EGCG even showed inhibitory effects on prostate cells and inflammation markers. There are no concrete human studies for CPPS yet, but: drinking green tea is certainly not harmful, on the contrary. You are doing your body good and taking in antioxidants that can generally reduce inflammation. Important: Green tea contains caffeine - if you are sensitive, drink it during the day and not by the liter. 1-2 cups a day is a good guideline. (Plus point: green tea can also have a calming effect despite the caffeine, thanks to L-theanine).
• Quercetin: This is not a herb per se, but a **plant bioflavonoid** substance found in many fruits and vegetables (e.g. apples, onions, berries). Studies have shown quercetin to be surprisingly effective as a dietary supplement for chronic prostatitis. In a double-blind study, men with CPPS were given quercetin (2×500 mg daily) or placebo for four weeks: 67% of the quercetin group achieved a significant improvement in symptoms, compared to only 20% with placebo【2】. The average symptom score reduction was significantly greater with quercetin. Quercetin was later often tested in combination with bromelain and papain (for better absorption) - the benefit was also confirmed here. Quercetin has an antioxidant effect and inhibits certain inflammatory substances (e.g. cytokines and prostaglandins). For you, this means that quercetin could be worth a try, especially in chronic cases. It is contained in many "prostate formulas" or is available as a single preparation. Make sure you take a high-quality preparation and consult your doctor about taking it if necessary. (*Not yet confirmed by EFSA; further studies required*)
• Other plants and natural substances: The list goes on: *African plum tree* (Pygeum africanum) with the active ingredient beta-sitosterol shows good effects in BPH and is also being discussed for CPPS. *Goldenrod* (Solidago) and bearberry leaves* are traditionally used to disinfect the urinary tract (especially in the case of concomitant cystitis). *Turmeric* (curcumin) is a strong anti-inflammatory - in combination with quercetin, better treatment results were achieved in a study. And *palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)*, an inflammation-modulating fatty substance, has shown potential for pelvic pain in initial studies. All in all, the plant world offers many starting points, but the evidence is often not yet sufficient for an official health claim. We recommend specifically selecting those natural remedies that are most convincing in studies - saw palmetto, pumpkin, rye pollen, quercetin and others are among them. However, do not combine everything at random, but try 1-2 preparations and observe the effect over several weeks. Your urologist or alternative practitioner can advise you. (*None of these herbal effects have yet been confirmed by the EFSA; further studies required*)

Important: Natural remedies often take some time to take effect. Give a herbal cure at least 4-6 weeks before you evaluate the effect. And preferably use high-quality products (standardized extracts). Many of the substances mentioned are contained in well thought-out combination preparations that have been specially developed for the prostate. For example, XTRAFUEL offers a Prosta Plus complex - a pharmacy-grade formula with saw palmetto and pumpkin seed extract, enriched with vitamin E and zinc for antioxidant cell protection and hormonal balance. Such a product aims to support prostate health holistically【7】. (*Not yet confirmed by EFSA; further studies required*)

Conventional medicine and nature combined: holistic healing

To conclude this therapy section, it is important for me to emphasize that **conventional medicine and naturopathy do not have to be contradictory** - on the contrary, they can complement each other perfectly. Acute bacterial prostatitis should be treated by a doctor, usually with antibiotics, possibly painkillers and bed rest. However, you can use everything we have described above in parallel as support: drink plenty of fluids, apply heat, take anti-inflammatory herbal tea cures, etc. There are indications that saw palmetto and quercetin, for example, can increase the success rate of antibiotic therapy for chronic bacterial prostatitis. In a study from Italy, a group of men with chronic prostatitis were treated simultaneously with antibiotics **and** a combination of plant substances (saw palmetto + stinging nettle + quercetin + curcumin): After one month, almost 90% of patients were symptom-free and there were no relapses within 6 months. The comparison group with antibiotics alone performed significantly worse. Such results are promising - they show that naturopathic approaches are more than "placebo". (*The supportive effect of herbal preparations in prostatitis has not yet been confirmed by the EFSA; further studies required.*)

In the case of *chronic prostatitis* there is - it has to be said honestly - no patent remedy and no single pill that cures everything. A **multimodal approach** is often required here: a combination of medication (if necessary), lifestyle changes, physiotherapy and herbal or complementary remedies. The official guidelines recommend that treatment should be individually tailored to the main complaints【8】. This is exactly what you can do: Listen to yourself and find out what bothers you the most - is it the pain? The constant trips to the toilet? The psychological stress? - and start there. The natural measures presented in this chapter target all these levels:

• **Relieve pain:** through heat, relaxation, anti-inflammatory herbs (quercetin, turmeric, omega-3, etc.).
• **Improve urinary urgency:** by flushing (drinking), decongestant plants (saw palmetto, pumpkin) and bladder soothing (alcohol/caffeine break, possibly herbal teas).
• **Relieve tension:** through pelvic floor training, massages, moderate exercise, hot baths.
• **Support the soul:** through stress reduction, exchange, possibly psychological support.
• **Strengthen the prostate:** through nutrients (zinc, vitamin E, vitamin D) that keep the tissue healthy and promote the immune system.

This holistic approach requires a little patience - but it has a lasting effect on many men. And the great thing is that you can actively do something for yourself instead of passively hoping for pills. Of course, every case is different, and what helps one man may not help another. Don't let this discourage you. Try, observe, keep at it - this is how you find out which natural therapies work best for you personally.

Relieve prostatitis naturally: Tips for everyday life

After all the information, here are the most important **practical tips** in short form. You can start doing something good for your prostate right away:

1. Keep moving: Avoid sitting for hours on end, go for regular walks and do light exercise. This promotes blood flow to the prostate.
2. Warmth is good for you: Treat yourself to daily warm sitz baths or put on a hot water bottle. Heat relaxes cramped muscles and relieves pain.
3. Drink enough: 2-3 liters of water or herbal tea a day help to flush the urinary tract. Reduce alcohol, coffee and hot spices - your bladder will thank you!
4. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: more fish, vegetables, omega-3 and whole grains, less sugar and convenience foods. Nibble on pumpkin seeds for an extra portion of zinc.
5. Use herbs and nutrients: Consider tried-and-true herbal supplements like saw palmetto or rye pollen. Studies have also shown that quercetin (an antioxidant) can improve symptoms. A good combination preparation (e.g. with pumpkin, saw palmetto, zinc) can be useful - best used in consultation with your doctor.
6. Relax the pelvic floor: Practice consciously letting go. Special physiotherapy or yoga can help to loosen the muscles. Make sure you are sitting comfortably to take pressure off the prostate.
7. Listen to your body: If sex relieves your discomfort (which can happen as the prostate is emptied), regular ejaculation is okay. If it increases the pain, allow yourself to rest - it's not a compulsory exercise.
8. Get help if you need it: Chronic pain is exhausting. Talk openly with your doctor about all treatment options - from alpha blockers to acupuncture. And don't hesitate to seek psychological help if the situation is causing you a lot of stress.

Remember: **Patience** is the be-all and end-all with prostatitis. Give your body time to regenerate. Many men find that the symptoms come and go in phases. Setbacks are normal - the important thing is to stay on the ball and not lose hope. With the right mix of conventional medical treatment and natural measures, the chances are good that you will get your prostatitis under control.

Conclusion: a holistic approach to prostatitis

Prostatitis can be stubborn, but you are not helplessly at its mercy. We have seen in this article: The causes are varied - and the solutions should be just as varied. **Natural therapies** offer a wealth of possibilities to alleviate your symptoms: from warmth and relaxation to a prostate-healthy diet and herbal power packs such as saw palmetto, pumpkin, nettle & co (all within the bounds of what is permitted, of course). Scientific studies support many of these approaches, even if the EU has not (yet) issued any claims for prostate-specific effects. It is important to have realistic expectations: Chronic prostatitis rarely disappears overnight. But step by step you can achieve improvements - less pain, less frequent urination, better quality of life.

Focus on a **holistic strategy**: Take care of your body *and* your soul. Strengthen your prostate with nutrients and good habits, and reduce stress on it. And above all, work with your doctor. Prostatitis should be treated by a doctor, if only to rule out other diseases. The natural tips here are intended as a supplement, not as a sole substitute. In the best case scenario, conventional medicine and naturopathy work together like gears - to your benefit.

At the end of the day, no one knows your prostate as well as you do. Watch out for signs of what works for you and what doesn't. You may soon realize: *"Hey, since I've been drinking my liter of nettle and pumpkin tea every day and doing my relaxation exercises in the evening, I sleep better and hardly have to go out at night. "* Progress like this is worth its weight in gold. And should a relapse occur - cheer up! Now you have a whole arsenal of gentle weapons to fight back.

The prostate is a sensitive organ that deserves attention. With natural support, a little patience and a good doctor at your side, you have the best chance of being symptom-free again soon. **Keep at it and give your prostate the care it needs - it will thank you for it!

Read on to find out more: You can find more general tips on how to keep your prostate fit and healthy in our guide Prostate health - natural ways to support your prostate after 40. After all, prevention is the best medicine. With this in mind: All the best for you and your prostate - may it soon be at peace again!

Sources

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