The prostate gland is the walnut-shaped reproductive organ that is wrapped around the urethra. It is one of the significant parts of the male reproductive system. It adds fluid to the sperm to help with its mobility. Benign prostatic hyperplasia, while it sounds dangerous, is actually a harmless swelling that occurs in your prostate gland. Scientifically, it may also be called a benign enlargement of the prostate (BPE or BEP). This swelling or inflammation is caused by the hyperplasia (excess tissue growth) of stromal and epithelial cells in your prostate. This further results in the formation of large and discrete nodules in the transition zone of the prostate. Middle-aged men over the age of forty are most likely to suffer from a prostate enlargement.

Difficulty in urination and urinary tract infections are generally the first signs of an enlarged prostate. You can consult your doctor to know more about the number of options that can help with an enlarged prostate such as lifestyle changes, medications, self-catheterization, and surgery and how they are helpful. However, here are a few enlarged prostate remedies that you can try at home.

Kegel exercises
Many pelvic-focused exercises are known to be some of the best-enlarged prostate remedies. One such exercise is Kegels. They strengthen the pelvis and help with the discomfort created by an enlarged prostate. Kegels also help improve urination.
You have to lie on the floor, lift your pelvis up, and tighten those muscles for 5 to 6 seconds. Repeat the exercise 3 to 4 times a day, in sets of 15 seconds each. For best results, continue to make Kegel exercises an essential part of your day. However, if you have chronic prostatitis or pelvic pain, avoid Kegel exercises.Likewise, it is essential that you speak to your doctor before you perform them.

Pumpkin seeds
A healthy home remedy for an enlarged prostate is to have a healthy amount of pumpkin seeds in your system. Eat a few pumpkin seeds after you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed. They are known to shrink your prostate if it is enlarged, as they contain protective compounds such as phytosterols.

Stinging nettle
The stinging nettle is known for its medicinal properties. The leaf of the stinging nettle is where its benefits lie. These leaves are great for enlarged prostate remedies. They contain essential bioactive ingredients that help shrink the enlarged prostate. Stinging nettle leaves reduce the risk of chronic benign prostatic hyperplasia.
You can take one teaspoon (about 10 grams) of dried nettle leaves and add them to a cup of hot water and let it brew for ten minutes and then strain it. Drink this tea 2 or 3 times daily. There are also some stinging nettle supplements that are available in the market. You can the supplements after consulting a doctor for the correct dosage for your condition.

Beta-sitosterol
Another remedy for an enlarged prostate is a combination of different plants. These are known to produce a substance called sitosterol, which is like cholesterol. Many studies suggest that if you want to relieve urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, beta-sitosterol is the go-to choice. Since it is a natural remedy and not chemically potent, doctors recommend it. However, the long-term effects of the remedy haven’t been researched yet.

Add soy to your diet
Many studies have proved that adding soy-based products to your diet is one of the best as enlarged prostate remedies. Switching them out with their unhealthier counterparts has been proved effective. Soy contains naturally occurring phytoestrogens that help reduce testosterone production. They are known to hinder the growth of blood capillaries which can form around the prostate gland.

Corn silk
Apart from fighting signs of prostate enlargement, corn silk is an anti-inflammatory agent. It is generally used in the form of tea for consumption. It helps relieve the discomforts related to the urinary tract and also prostatitis. It helps soothe the lining of the urinary tract and bladder. By doing this, it slowly eliminates the problem of reduced urine flow, enlargement, and irritation.

Apple cider vinegar
Astringent properties of apple cider vinegar are known to be effective when it comes to enlarged prostate remedies. It helps in the avoidance of urinary tract infections that are uncomfortable when combined with an enlarged prostate. It also helps the swollen prostate glands to shrink in size. For best results, combine apple cider vinegar and honey (2 tablespoons each) and have it every day.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are known to be rich in lycopene. Lycopene has soothing properties that help you deal with the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It lowers the level of the prostate-specific antigen responsible for prostate inflammation. You can increase your consumption of raw tomatoes as well as tomato-based products. The fruit has been proven as an effective enlarged prostate remedy.

Zinc supplements
A zinc supplement aids in the shrinkage of the prostate gland. Zinc is present in the prostate cells and plays an anti-inflammatory role. Some foods that are rich in zinc should be included in your diet. These include oysters, crabs, beans, cashews, and yogurt.

Make lifestyle changes

• Increase your consumption of fish such as mackerel, tuna, and salmon.
• Reduce your consumption of red meat and starch-based food.
• Reduce or avoid alcohol as well as caffeine.
• Perform breathing exercises and improve your posture.
• Start leading a healthier lifestyle.