Prostate, the small organ below the urinary bladder in males has significant role to play in both- sexual activity and urination. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine passes out of the body and  produces seminal fluid discharged from penis during sexual stimulation. Prostate problems include the very common prostatitis- the inflammation of the prostate gland. Ayurveda recognizes two specific prostate problems-

• Mootrakruchra - painful urination, and
• Mootraghaata - suppression of urination.

They are, in fact, symptoms of prostate problems.  Apart from these two main symptoms, other symptoms include problematic urine flow, dribbling, increased urination, hematuria (blood in urine), urinary tract infection and urinary retention.

Herbal Remedies for Prostate Gland Problems

Ayurveda suggests many herbs for the treatment of prostate gland problems:

Punarnava or Hog Weed (Boerhaavia diffusa)– It is useful in all urinary problems caused due to prostate ailments.

Prickly Lettuce (Lactuca scariola)-The bitter tonic of its leaves is very effective in treatment of enlarged prostate gland.

Shalaba mishri or Salep Orchid (Orchis mascula)- Useful where prostate problems are due to vata vitiation.

Gokshura or Small Caltrop (Tribulus terrestris)- This Indian herb, tribulus terrestris , is useful in treatment of urinary complications caused due to prostate problems. Its fruit is boiled in two cups of water till it is reduced to half the amount and drunk after mixing sugar in it.

Home Remedies for Prostate Gland Problems

Some remedies for prostate problems are available as common ingridients at home:

• If having enlarged prostate, eat a mixture of juniper berries and parslane.
• Eat more tomatoes to avoid prostate infections.
• If experiencing prostate problems, have alternate cold and hot hip baths for about ten minutes daily.

Remaining sexually active is advisable but over indulgence is prohibited by ayurveda. Regular exercise, even walks or mild exercises are a must. Never suppress the urge to urinate. Don't sit on a hard stool for longer periods. If doing desk job, get a soft ergonomic chair to sit on. Quit smoking and alcohol, especially if you are overweight. Taking these precautions will certainly keep the prostate problems at bay.