Causes & Treatments Of Prostatitis According To Ayurveda

Prostatitis is defined as the inflammation of the prostate gland. Prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland which is situated directly below the bladder. The function of prostate gland in males is to produce semen that nourishes and transports sperm.

It can affect men of all ages but most commonly seen in men below 50 years of age.

It is most commonly caused by the bacteria which are usually similar to those that cause other common genitourinary infections.

What are the symptoms of Prostatitis?

• Pain in the pelvis and genital area
• Fever
• Increased urinary frequency and urgency
• Drooling of urine
• Frequent urination, particularly in the night
• Cloudy urine
• Blood in the urine
• Painful ejaculation
• Pain or discomfort in the penis or testicles

What is the cause of Prostatitis according to Ayurveda?

Based on the symptoms, it can be correlated to Tooni in Ayurveda which is classified under Vaatvyaadhi along with aggravation of Pitta dosha where the pain starts from Mutrashaya (urinary bladder) or Malashaya (rectum) and radiates to Guda (anus) and Upsatha (penis).

Therefore, this condition is caused due to the vitiation of Vata (Apana Vata) and Pitta doshas.

Ashtila is a condition in Ayurveda which can be correlated to the enlargement of prostate gland. It is characterized by the stony swelling which obstructs the passage of urine. It occurs due to the vitiation of Vata dosha causing distension of the bladder. The swelling is often elevated and movable.

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Prostatitis?

The Ayurvedic treatment of Prostatitis includes the balancing of Vata and Pitta doshas by internal detoxification and removing the blockages in the urinary tract. The Ayurvedic medicines prescribed for this condition should have Paachana (digestive stimulant), shothhara (anti-inflammatory), anti-microbial properties that must work on mutravaha srotas.

Herbal Formulation offered by Yamuna Pharmacy for the treatment of Prostatitis:

Metostab Capsule: Metostab Capsule by Yamuna Pharmacy is purely an herbal formulation that works by reducing the inflammation of prostate gland and provides relief in prostatitis. It is an Ayurvedic proprietary formulation which relieves symptoms of prostatitis such as: frequency and urgency of urination, painful micturition, dribbling of urine etc.  by working on the root cause of the problem.

• The key ingredients of Yamuna Pharmacy Metostab Capsule are: Kanchnaar, Haritaki, Vibhitaki, Amla, Varun, Guggul, Brahmi, Gokhru, Shigru Patra, Shilajit, Shushka Kaseesak, Gandhak, Khatika etc.

Dosage: Take 1-2 capsules twice a day after taking meals.

Some classical Ayurvedic formulations for the treatment of Prostatitis are:

1. Chandraprabha Vati: It has Mutrakrichhahar property, due to which urine is passed easily.
2. Chandanasava: Chandanasava is sheet (coolant) in nature.
3. Avipattikar Churna: Avipattikar Churna is Pittarechak (expels out Pitta dosha) in nature due to the presence of Trivrit (one of the ingredients) in it.
4. Punarnavadi Kashaya: Due to its shothhar (anti-inflammatory) property, it is administered.
5. Varunadi Kwath: Varunadi Kwath is Kapha-Vata hara (Kapha and Vata dosha pacifying) in nature.
6. Kanchnaar Guggul: Kanchnaar Guggul has Granthinashak (lump reducing) action.

Note: These medications should be taken under the supervision of an Ayurvedic expert. Ayurvedic treatment is a personalized and individualized one. Hence, an Ayurvedic expert would be the best person to plan a right treatment for you.

Diet and Lifestyle:

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Fresh coconut water is best recommended.
• Fresh curd and buttermilk can be included in the diet.
• Intake of fresh fruits except citrus fruits can be taken.
• Excess use of spices should be avoided.
• Alcohol consumption and eating non-vegetarian food must be strictly avoided.
• Avoid performing exercises during afternoon.
• Avoid suppression of natural urges.

Thus, Ayurvedic treatment promises successful management of Prostatitis along with some changes in diet and lifestyle.

Causes & Treatments of Prostatitis According to Ayurveda
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland, which can result in a range of symptoms, such as pelvic pain, urinary difficulties, painful ejaculation, and general discomfort in the lower abdomen. In Ayurveda, prostatitis is understood to be an imbalance of the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), and treatments are focused on restoring the balance of these energies within the body.

Causes of Prostatitis According to Ayurveda
Vata Imbalance:

Vata, which governs movement and elimination, plays a significant role in urinary health and the function of the prostate gland. An imbalance in Vata, especially dryness or excessive movement, can lead to inflammation and pain in the prostate.

Factors such as excessive stress, poor diet, overuse of the genitals, and lack of rest can disturb Vata, leading to conditions like prostatitis.

Pitta Imbalance:

Pitta is the dosha responsible for heat and transformation. An imbalance in Pitta leads to inflammation, infection, and heat buildup in the body, which can affect the prostate.

Factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, spicy foods, exposure to excessive heat, or infections can aggravate Pitta, leading to the inflammation of the prostate.

Kapha Imbalance:

Kapha is responsible for lubrication and stability. When Kapha is out of balance, it can lead to stagnation in the prostate, causing swelling and congestion. This can create blockages in the urinary system, leading to symptoms of prostatitis.

Poor diet, especially an excess of dairy products, sugary foods, and processed foods, can increase Kapha and contribute to prostate issues.

Infection and Toxins (Ama):

Ama, which refers to undigested food and accumulated toxins, can block the flow of energy and circulation to the prostate, leading to inflammation.

Infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can also contribute to prostatitis. The presence of bacteria or other pathogens causes inflammation in the prostate gland.

Emotional Stress and Mental Health:

Emotional stress, anxiety, and frustration are often linked to disturbances in Vata, and they can worsen the symptoms of prostatitis. Additionally, an unhealthy lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and poor emotional management can make prostatitis more difficult to treat.

Age-Related Factors:

As men age, Vata increases, leading to reduced fluidity, dryness, and tension in the body. This can affect prostate health and contribute to prostatitis, especially in older men.

Symptoms of Prostatitis in Ayurveda
Common symptoms of prostatitis, as per Ayurveda, align with the symptoms of imbalanced Vata, Pitta, or Kapha:

Painful urination and frequent urge to urinate.

Pain during ejaculation.

Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.

Swelling and inflammation of the prostate.

General fatigue and body aches.

Irritability or emotional stress associated with the discomfort

Prostatitis refers to the inflammation of the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. This condition can be acute or chronic and can result in symptoms such as painful urination, pain in the pelvic area, difficulty urinating, and painful ejaculation. In Ayurveda, prostatitis is seen as a result of an imbalance in the Pitta and Vata doshas, which can lead to inflammation and disruption of the natural flow of urine and semen.

Causes of Prostatitis According to Ayurveda:

Ayurvedic understanding of prostatitis suggests that the condition arises due to a variety of internal and external factors that disturb the body’s natural balance. Here are the primary causes:

1. Imbalance of Pitta Dosha:

   • Pitta dosha, responsible for the transformation and metabolic processes in the body, can become aggravated in cases of prostatitis, leading to heat, inflammation, and infection.

   • Overconsumption of spicy, oily, and heavy foods can trigger Pitta imbalance and contribute to inflammation of the prostate.

2. Vata Dosha Imbalance:

   • Vata dosha, responsible for movement in the body, governs the flow of urine and semen. When Vata is disturbed, it can lead to dysfunctions in the urinary tract and prostate, causing difficulty in urination and ejaculation.

3. Accumulation of Toxins (Ama):

   • Ama, the toxic byproduct of improper digestion and metabolism, can accumulate in the body and obstruct the normal functioning of tissues, including the prostate gland.

   • Poor diet, lack of physical activity, stress, and irregular bowel movements contribute to the formation of ama, which can lead to inflammation and infection in the prostate.

4. Infections:

   • Bacterial or viral infections can also lead to acute or chronic prostatitis. These infections can be aggravated if the immune system is weakened, often due to an underlying imbalance in the digestive system or Vata.

5. Stress and Mental Factors:

   • Emotional stress, anxiety, and mental tension can also play a significant role in aggravating the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, leading to conditions like prostatitis.

6. Sexual Activity:

   • Excessive or irregular sexual activity, particularly unprotected sex, can contribute to infections and inflammation of the prostate.

7. Aging:

   • As men age, the prostate gland becomes more vulnerable to inflammation due to a natural decrease in testosterone and the general weakening of Pitta and Vata.

Symptoms of Prostatitis According to Ayurveda:

The symptoms of prostatitis can vary depending on the type (acute or chronic) and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Painful urination (dysuria)

• Frequent urination, particularly at night (nocturia)

• Pain in the pelvic area, lower abdomen, perineum, or lower back

• Painful ejaculation or discomfort during sexual intercourse

• Painful or tender prostate gland

• Fever (in acute bacterial prostatitis)

• Difficulty in starting or stopping urine flow

• General fatigue, weakness, and malaise

• Increased urgency to urinate, with a feeling of incomplete emptying

• Blood in urine or semen (in some cases)

• Mood disturbances due to chronic discomfort and pain

Ayurvedic Treatments for Prostatitis:

Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance the Vata and Pitta doshas, reduce inflammation, promote proper circulation, and improve digestion to prevent the accumulation of ama (toxins). The treatments focus on both internal and external therapies to restore health to the prostate gland and alleviate symptoms.

1. Herbal Remedies:

Ayurveda uses a variety of herbs to treat prostatitis. These herbs help in reducing inflammation, promoting circulation, and improving the health of the prostate gland:

• Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris):

  • Properties: Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac.

  • Benefits: Gokshura helps in reducing inflammation of the prostate, alleviates painful urination, and promotes healthy urinary function. It also strengthens the reproductive organs and improves testosterone levels.

• Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa):

  • Properties: Diuretic, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Punarnava helps reduce swelling and inflammation in the prostate and promotes the removal of excess ama (toxins) from the body. It also helps to rejuvenate the kidneys and urinary system.

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

  • Properties: Adaptogenic, rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Ashwagandha helps to reduce stress, which can exacerbate Vata imbalances. It supports overall vitality and immune health, which is crucial in treating prostatitis and reducing inflammation in the prostate.

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

  • Properties: Mind tonic, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Brahmi is known for its ability to calm the mind and reduce mental stress. It helps to balance Pitta and Vata and can be beneficial for those with prostatitis who experience emotional distress or stress.

• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus):

  • Properties: Reproductive tonic, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Shatavari is a rejuvenating herb for the male reproductive system. It promotes prostate health, alleviates symptoms of prostatitis, and improves libido and energy levels.

• Vidanga (Embelia ribes):

  • Properties: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Vidanga is an effective herb for treating infections in the urinary and reproductive systems, including prostatitis. It helps remove ama and balances Vata and Pitta doshas.

• Musta (Cyperus rotundus):

  • Properties: Digestive tonic, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Musta is used to reduce inflammation and treat digestive disorders. It also works as a diuretic to help with urinary issues associated with prostatitis.

2. Panchakarma Therapies:

Panchakarma is a set of Ayurvedic detoxification treatments that can be highly effective in reducing toxins (ama) in the body and restoring balance. Key Panchakarma therapies that can help treat prostatitis include:

• Basti (Enemas):

  • Basti is an important therapy for clearing toxins from the colon and balancing Vata. It can help relieve pelvic congestion, promote proper urinary flow, and reduce inflammation in the prostate.

• Shirodhara (Oil Pouring on the Forehead):

  • Shirodhara involves pouring warm herbal oil onto the forehead to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. It is especially useful if mental stress is contributing to the condition.

• Abhyanga (Oil Massage):

  • Abhyanga, or Ayurvedic oil massage, helps balance the Vata dosha and improves circulation, which can alleviate pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. It also promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.

• Udvartana (Powder Massage):

  • This therapeutic massage involves the application of herbal powders to the body. It helps reduce toxins, improves circulation, and assists in the removal of ama from the body.

3. Dietary Recommendations:

• Cooling and Anti-inflammatory Foods:

  • A diet focused on cooling, anti-inflammatory, and easily digestible foods can help reduce the Pitta imbalance responsible for the inflammation. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet.

• Avoid Spicy and Oily Foods:

  • Avoid excessive consumption of spicy, salty, and oily foods, as they can aggravate Pitta and lead to heat and inflammation.

• Increase Fiber Intake:

  • Include foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, leafy vegetables, and legumes, to support digestion and prevent constipation, which can exacerbate Vata imbalances.

• Hydration:

  • Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to flush out toxins and keep the urinary tract healthy. Herbs like Ginger tea and Coriander tea are excellent for reducing inflammation.

4. Lifestyle Recommendations:

• Reduce Stress:

  • Incorporate practices like meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), and yoga to reduce mental stress and restore balance to the nervous system. This is especially important as stress can aggravate Vata and Pitta.

• Regular Exercise:

  • Moderate physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, can help improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote overall health.

• Sleep and Rest:

  • Ensure adequate rest and sleep to support the body’s healing process and reduce inflammation.

Conclusion:

In Ayurveda, the treatment of prostatitis revolves around balancing the Vata and Pitta doshas, reducing inflammation, promoting detoxification, and improving overall reproductive health. Herbal remedies, Panchakarma therapies, a balanced diet, and lifestyle changes play an important role in managing prostatitis and restoring health to the prostate gland. Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment is essential to ensure the best outcome.