Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, is used to describe a non-cancerous increase in the number of cells or growth in the prostate. BPH is the most common prostate problem in men. Suspected to be a normal part of the aging process in men, it is caused by changes in the balance of hormones and growth factors. The incidence of BPH increases progressively with age. In men over 50, half report suffering from one or more symptoms. By age 85, 90% of men will have signs of BPH. (Goldenberg, 2001) Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include difficulty starting or stopping urination, interrupted sleep due to frequent urination at night and a frequent sense of urgency and slow urine flow.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that the active constituents in Saw Palmetto, Nettle root, Pygeum, and ß-sitosterol can significantly improve the symptoms of BPH. Two, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies on ß-sitosterol described a decrease in IPSS scores (International Prostate Symptom Score and quality-of-life index), an increase in peak urine flow, and a decrease in mean residual urinary volume in subjects taking this supplement. (Berges, 1995 and 2000) Similarly, a combination of Pygeum and Nettle root improved prostate functioning, including reducing nighttime urination and residual urine. (Krzeski, 1993; Brown, 1992) Saw Palmetto is the best studied of the natural therapies for BPH. These studies indicate that Saw Palmetto also reduces the symptoms of BHP, but additionally has been demonstrated to shrink prostate tissue. (Marks et al. 1999)

As men age, the increase in estrogen to testosterone ratio and increasing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is associated with a variety of age related diseases, including BPH. Improving hormonal balance can help with the symptoms of BPH and other aging concerns. One of the studied mechanisms of action for Saw Palmetto is as an anti-estrogen. (Di Silverio et al. 1992) Additionally, it is suspected that Nettle root may work by inhibiting the binding of estrogen to prostate cells. Pygeum may also impact hormonal levels by stimulating production in the prostate. (Clavert, 1986)

Select nutrients have been shown to deliver prostate antioxidant protection. As an antioxidant, Lycopene is the most potent of all carotenoids in quenching singlet oxygen. (Clinton, 1998; Gerster, 1997) Lycopene has demonstrated significant association with prostate cellular health. (Giovnnucci, 1995) Selenium has also been shown to be a compelling antioxidant, especially in the prostate. (Coombs, 2004) Additionally, Soy isoflavones, Green Tea and Lycopene that have been shown to protect prostate cell health. (Jacobsen, 1998; Adhami, 2003; Giovannucci, 1999; Coombs, 2004)