Enlargement of the prostate gland is one of the most frequent diseases of men over 50, attacking about one in three men in this age group.  At about the age of 40 a man’s hormone production changes.  This can lead at times to an abnormal enlargement of the prostate gland.  In extreme cases the gland, normally the size of a chestnut, grows to the size of a fist.  The enlarged gland often constricts the urethra, the tube along which urine is passed.  Most men over the age of 40 experience some enlargement of the prostate gland but usually do not notice it before the age of 50.  The actual cause or causes of being prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are not known.  Medical science supposes at present that it may be caused by the male hormone testosterone.

Symptoms of BPH are difficulty in beginning urination, frequent urination and a feeling that the bladder hasn’t been emptied fully, frequent attempts to urinate, excessive dribbling after urination and lastly a distended bladder causing abdominal swelling.

What can be done?
An anti-prostate cancer diet is recommended which is low in fat, high in fibre, rich in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, with a minimum of animal protein.  Coffee, alcohol and spicy foods should be avoided.  Physical activity like swimming, gymnastics, walking is also recommended.  Hot baths with relaxing extracts such as hayflower extract may help;  drinking at least eight glasses of water a day (pure water with no chemicals) will help maintain fluid flow. 

However, once enlarged, the prostate gland cannot be reduced.  In an advanced stage, the prostate gland may have to be removed by surgery.  This leads in most cases to the loss of sexual activity.  Therefore, it is important that men over the age of 45 start having regular check-ups and commence preventative treatment. 

Naturalists and homeopaths recommend that preventative treatment using pumpkin seed oil should be started by the age of 40.  These cures take about 2 to 3 months and should be taken twice a year.  Pumpkin seed oil is known as a natural remedy against the enlargement of the prostate gland.  The seeds used for such a treatment are not from the familiar pumpkins in our gardens but from a special species which grows in south-west Asia.

Also the actual mechanism of pumpkin seed oil is not very well understood, scientists assume that the remedy reduces the effect of testosterone.  Patients who have taken pumpkin seed oil before surgery had significantly less testosterone in the removed prostate gland.  Pumpkin seed oil capsules are also recommended after the gland has been removed. 

Pumpkin seed oil capsules can also benefit women who experience excessive dribbling after urination.