by Tracey J Lenac, Clinical Herbalist and Holistic Practitioner
According to the Mayo Clinic, heart disease, cancer and diabetes are among the top issues that affect men’s health. While it is true that not all diseases can be prevented, many are related to lifestyle and diet. Eating a healthy diet low in fat, exercising and avoiding risk factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol use are some ways to help decrease the risk of lifestyle diseases.
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in men, prostate cancer the leading cause of cancer in men (American Cancer Society) and type 2 diabetes makes men three times more likely to have erectile dysfunction (CDC). The good news is that in addition to changes in diet and lifestyle, another way to help offset the risk of these diseases is for men to incorporate beneficial herbs into their daily routine.
The following herbs support cardiovascular health, prostate health, diabetes and overall sexual function:
Cardiovascular Health
1.Hawthorn Berry Crataegus
Hawthorn berries are rich in saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, ascorbic acid and tannins. This chemical composition makes Hawthorn berries a great resource for cardiovascular health by providing cardiac tonic and hypotensive herbal actions. They are able to normalize heart function and blood pressure. Hawthorn berry is an excellent companion herb to hibiscus for heart health.
Hawthorn Berries have been shown to have the following medical actions: CNS sedative, antioxidant, adaptogen, cardiac trophorestorative, cardiotonic, hypotension, coronary vasodilator, peripheral vasodilator, anti-arrhythmic, diuretic, collagen stabilizing, reduces myocardial oxygen demand, protects against myocardial damage
Preparation and dosage: Infusion - Pour a cup of boiling water over 2 teaspoons full of berries. Cover and let steep for at least 20 minutes (the longer steep time the better). Strain. Drink 3 times a da
2. Hibiscus Hibiscus sabdariffa
Hibiscus has been used for centuries as a cardiac tonic. Recent studies have shown that it does, in fact, lower blood pressure, but also helps to normalize cholesterol levels. In one study, Hibiscus was shown to decrease blood pressure from 148/98 to 130/86 and 71% of participants in clinical trials experienced a reduction in LDL cholesterol levels. When paired with Hawthorn Berries, HIbiscus becomes a powerhouse herb that provides measurable benefits to heart health.
Preparation and dosage: Infusion - Pour a cup of boiling water over 2 teaspoons full of berries. Cover and let steep for at least 20 minutes (the longer steep time the better). Strain. Drink 3 times a day (Hoffman, D. 1998).
3. Garlic Allium sativum L.
As far back as 2600 BC, garlic has been used and documented as medicine by the Ancient Sumerians, Ancient Egyptians, Ancient Greeks, Ancient Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine of Ancient India.
In Modern times, the bioactive compound in garlic, Alicin, has been shown to reverse early stage cardiovascular disease, decrease blood sugar levels, improve circulation and lower LDL cholesterol. Numerous randomized, double blind studies dating back to 1975 have consistently illustrated the positive effects of Garlic on cardiovascular health when administered in powder form.
The level of Allicin in garlic supplements must be at optimal levels of at least .3% per dosage. Because more than half of the Allicin is lost during the dehydration process, the amount of Allicin contained in each dose should be divided by 2 to calculate appropriate Allicin levels in supplements. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/food-beverages/garlic
Dosage: 600 - 1200 mg in powder form/capsule per day as direct by healthcare provider
Prostate Support
4. Saw Palmetto Serenoa repens + Pygeum Prunus africana
When taken with Pygeum, Saw Palmetto has positive effects on prostate health. Studies have noted that the effects are most often seen after taking this herb for 6 months. Pygeum has been shown to improve urinary flow and overall quality of life for men who have been diagnosed with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. These two herbs seem to work better together than as a single herb therapy. The effects of Saw Palmetto and Pygeum are further enhanced by adding Lycopene and Selenium to the formulation and/or taken separately.
5. Nettle Root Urtica dioica
Nettle Root has been used for hundreds of years to treat urinary issues. It is especially helpful for men who have Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Although it does not decrease the size of enlarged prostates, it does relieve the symptoms associated with this condition.
In particular, Nettle Root has been found to relieve the symptoms of:
Decreased urinary flow
Incomplete emptying of the bladder
Dripping after urination
Frequent urge to urinate
As noted with Saw Palmetto and Pygeum, Nettle Root is best when blended with other beneficial herbs that support the prostate and urinary tract health.
6. Pumpkin Seed and Pumpkin Seed Oil Cucurbita pepo
According to board certified urologists, Pumpkin Seed Oil is beneficial for prostate health in a number of ways:
They are an excellent source of Zinc and optimal levels of Zinc are necessary for normal prostate function. Eating a handful of pumpkin seeds is recommended 2 - 3 times a week to improve prostate wellness.
They contain a compound called Phytosterol which has been shown to reduce and/or prevent prostate enlargement.
They reduce the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia by preventing overstimulated prostate cells from multiplying and balancing hormone levels.
Blood Sugar Support
7. Cinnamon Cinnamomum verum
Studies have consistently shown that Cinnamon significantly reduces blood glucose serum levels. 3 - 6 grams per day of Ceylon Cinnamon is the recommended dosage and decreased blood sugar levels can be seen in as little as four weeks.
Sexual Health & Well Being
8. Maca Root Lepidium meyenii
20 - 30% of men suffer from sexual dysfunction. Maca Root has been known for centuries to help with libido. Modern day studies have shown that Maca Root increases sexual desire, improves sexual function and increases sperm count and motility.
9. Red Ginseng Panax ginseng
Red Ginseng contains ginsenosides that dilate arteries which increases blood flow to the genital region. Studies have shown that it can help men who experience erectile dysfunction and support sexual health. It has been used for centuries in China, Korea and East Asia as a longevity remedy. (Use with caution if diagnosed with Prostatitis).
10. Ginkgo Ginko Biloba
Ginko is an excellent herb that offers the following benefits
Strengthens and opens blood vessels
Improves muscle tone
Increases blood flow
Acts as a nerve tonic
All of the above benefits have helped men who experience erectile dysfunction. It also helps men who don’t experience ED to have more enjoyable sexual experiences.
Check out our Prostate Nourisher formulation here: https://www.asunderwellness.com/product-page/prostate-nourisher-tincture-blend
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