Author: Dr. Vikram Chauhan

Prostate Cancer: Types, Symptoms & Ayurvedic Treatment

Abstract

Prostate issues are prevalent health conditions that mainly affect men, particularly as they age. The prostate is a small gland located beneath the bladder, responsible for producing seminal fluid. Common prostate concerns include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. BPH, a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, often causes urinary problems such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and incomplete bladder emptying. Prostatitis involves inflammation of the prostate, typically accompanied by pain, fever, and urinary discomfort. Prostate cancer, a malignant disease, is one of the most common cancers in men, with age, family history, and lifestyle being significant risk factors. In this article we will discuss this in detail and we will discuss its ayurvedic aspect and its management.

Prostate

Introduction

The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system and is roughly the size of a walnut. It is located at the base of the bladder, and the urethra, a tube that carries urine and semen through the penis, passes through it. The prostate produces an alkaline fluid that helps nourish sperm, which is eventually expelled from the body as semen during ejaculation. The prostate undergoes two primary phases of growth. The first occurs during puberty when sex hormones from the testes stimulate the gland to reach an average weight of about 20 grams. The second phase of growth starts in a man’s thirties.

Approximately 25% of the men aged 55 and older experience some form of prostate issue, with this number rising to 50% by the age of 70%. In the early stage of prostate condition, there may be no noticeable symptoms.

Types

There are various types of prostate disorder, including :

  1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) : A noncancerous prostate enlargement that can cause symptoms like frequent urination, a weak urine stream, and difficulty in fully emptying the bladder.
  2. Prostatitis : Inflammation or infection of the prostate, It can lead to pain, fever, trouble urinating, and pelvic discomfort.
  3. Prostate Cancer : The growth of malignant cells in the prostate, it is the most common type of cancer in men, with symptoms that may include urinary problems and, in advanced cases, more severe signs of illness.
  4. Prostate Abscess : A pus-filled infection in the prostate, often due to bacteria, causing pain, fever, and issues with urination.
  5. Prostate Stones : Hard mineral deposits that form in the prostate, potentially causing pain, swelling, and urinary difficulties.

Causes

The cause of prostate disease can vary depending on the specific condition, but some common factors include :

Factors Affecting Prostate Health

  • Age – As men get older, the likelihood of developing prostate conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer, increases.
  • Hormonal Changes – Hormones like testosterone can play a role in prostate growth and may contribute to conditions like BPH or prostate cancer.
  • Genetics – A family history of prostate problems, particularly prostate cancer, can increase the risk of developing similar issues.
  • Infections – Bacterial infections may lead to prostatitis, causing inflammation and pain in the prostate.
  • Inflammation – Chronic inflammation of the prostate can lead to prostatitis and may be related to autoimmune conditions or infections.
  • Diet and Lifestyle – A diet high in fat and low in vegetables, as well as lack of exercise, may increase the risk of prostate conditions like cancer. Obesity and smoking can also contribute.
  • Genetic Mutations – Specific mutations in genes like the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
  • Chemical Exposure – Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, such as those in pesticides or industrial products, may increase the risk of prostate disease.
  • Sexual Activity – Frequent or unprotected sexual activity may increase the risk of infections leading to prostatitis.
  • Chronic Health Conditions – Other health problems, such as diabetes, may contribute to an increased risk of prostate issues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of prostate disease can vary depending on the type of condition, but common signs include:

Common Symptoms of Prostate Problems

  • Frequent Urination – A need to urinate more often, especially at night (nocturia).
  • Weak or Interrupted Urine Flow – Difficulty starting or maintaining a steady stream of urine.
  • Painful Urination – Discomfort or burning sensation while urinating.
  • Difficulty Emptying the Bladder – A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying after urination.
  • Blood in Urine or Semen – Presence of blood in the urine or semen, which may indicate infection or more serious conditions like cancer.
  • Pain in the Pelvic Area – Discomfort or aching in the lower abdomen, back, or pelvic region.
  • Painful Ejaculation – Discomfort or pain during or after sexual activity.
  • Erectile Dysfunction – Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, which may be related to prostate problems.
  • Fever and Chills – Common with prostatitis (inflammation or infection of the prostate).
  • Urgency to Urinate – A sudden, strong need to urinate, which may be difficult to control.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of prostate disease involves several methods, combining medical history, physical exams, lab tests, and imaging procedures. Common diagnostic approaches include:

Common Diagnostic Tests for Prostate Conditions

  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – A healthcare provider performs a physical exam by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum to check for any irregularities in the size, shape, or texture of the prostate.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – A blood test that measures the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate. Higher levels may suggest BPH, prostatitis, or prostate cancer, though further testing is required for confirmation.
  • Urine Test (Urinalysis) – Analyzes a urine sample to detect signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities that may indicate prostatitis or other prostate-related issues.
  • Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) – An ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the rectum to obtain images of the prostate, helping assess its size and detect irregularities or tumors.
  • Biopsy – If prostate cancer is suspected, small tissue samples may be taken from the prostate for microscopic examination.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Produces highly detailed images of the prostate and surrounding tissues, especially useful when cancer is suspected.
  • Cystoscopy – A thin tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra to examine the prostate and bladder for abnormalities.
  • Urodynamic Testing – Evaluates how well the bladder and urethra function to help identify conditions affecting urinary flow.
  • X-ray – May be used to check for bone involvement if there is concern that prostate cancer has spread.

Treatment

The treatment for prostate disease depends on the specific condition, its severity and the overall health of the patient. Its common treatment includes:

Treatment Options for Prostate Conditions

1. Medications

  • Alpha blockers
  • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
  • Antibiotics
  • Pain relievers
  • Hormone therapy

2. Surgery

  • Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
  • Prostatectomy
  • Laser surgery
  • Prostate biopsy

3. Radiation Therapy

  • External beam radiation
  • Brachytherapy

4. Cryotherapy

5. Chemotherapy

6. Lifestyle Changes

  • Dietary adjustments
  • Exercise
  • Fluid management

Ayurvedic Overview

In Ayurveda, Prostate problems are generally considered to be linked to imbalances in the body’s three doshas Vata, Pitta, Kapha. These imbalances can manifest as inflammation, enlargement and dysfunction of the prostate gland.

Vata Imbalance

Vata dosha governs movement, circulation and nerve function. When vata is imbalanced, it can lead to symptoms such as dryness, increased frequency of urination, difficulty in urination and weak urine flow which is common in BPH.

Pitta Imbalance

Pitta dosha controls metabolism, digestion and inflammation. An Imbalance in Pitta can lead to inflammation, heat and infection in the prostate, which contributes to conditions like prostatitis and swelling.

Kapha Imbalance

Kapha is responsible for structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. An imbalance in kapha can lead to excessive mucus, fluid retention and swelling, which may contribute to prostate enlargement (BPH). Excess Kapha can lead to sluggish urinary flow, difficulty in passing urine, and a feeling of incomplete emptying.

Herbal Remedies for prostate problem by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified ayurvedic company that offers a wide range of herbal formulation that helps to manage chronic conditions. All their formulations are prepared under the supervision of MD (Ayurveda) scholars. Planet Ayurveda’s formulations are 100% pure, herbal, and chemical free. They provide effective solutions for various health concerns. One of them is the Prostate CAre Pack for prostate problems.

Product description

1. Shilajit Capsule

This capsule is a standardized pure extract of Shilajit (Black Bitumen). Shilajit contains essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It also has properties like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adaptogenic. It is traditionally used to support hormonal balance, including testosterone levels. Since testosterone levels are linked to the prostate, it helps to maintain a healthy prostate.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times a day with warm water

2. Tribulus Power

This capsule is a standardized pure extract of Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris). It promotes overall urinary health and helps to strengthen the urinary tract. It has antioxidant effects that help reduce oxidative stress and cellular damage, making it helpful in prostate-related problems.

Dosage: 2 capsules two times a day with warm water

3. Varunadi Vati

This tablet is a pure extract of Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa), Varun (Crataeva Nurvala), Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris), and Shuddha Guggulu (Commiphora Mukul). All these herbs help support urinary health and reduce inflammation. Varunadi Vati has antioxidant properties that may help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with warm water

4. Kanchnaar Guggul

This tablet is a pure extract of Kanchnar Bark (Bauhinia Variegata), Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia Bellerica), and Varuna Bark (Crataeva Religiosa). It has the ability to support the lymphatic system, promote detoxification, and reduce inflammation. Kanchnaar Guggul helps detoxify the body and remove excess toxins, which may support overall prostate health.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with warm water

5. Prostate Support

This tablet is a standardized pure extract of Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris), Varun (Crataeva Nurvala), Kanchnaar (Bauhinia Variegata), Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa), and Saralghan (Pinus Roxburghii). This formulation helps enhance urine flow and support optimal prostate function. Herbs like Kanchnaar help control excess prostate growth and reduce inflammation, thereby helping to maintain the prostate gland.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with warm water

Conclusion

In Conclusion , Ayurvedic treatment for prostate problems offers a comprehensive, holistic approach that targets the root cause of the condition by balancing the body’s Vata, Pitta and kapha dosha . Planet Ayurveda’s Prostate care pack helps to manage prostate problems by balancing the vata, pitta, and kapha. They help to reduce inflammation, swelling and prostate enlargement.

How to Naturally Overcome Sarcoidosis with Ayurveda: A Holistic Healing Approach

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease in which tiny collection of granulomas, or clumps of inflammatory cells got formed in any part of the body — most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes, but it can also affect the eyes, skin, heart and other organs. According to Ayurveda, when vata reaching the external channels, it also affects kapha-pitta-rakta and becomes obstructed by them in the way. While spreading vata causes swelling or inflammation with the character of protuberance. By balancing our Tri-doshas (three fundamental energies) one can get rid of sarcoidosis. In this article we are going to discuss, how we can get rid of sarcoidosis naturally with Ayurveda.

Get Rid of Sarcoidosis Naturally with Ayurveda

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease. Inflammation is one of the complex biological responses of body tissues to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells and is a protective response which involves immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators. It is a disorder related to autoimmune disorders or may be triggered by body’s immune system responding to foreign substances, such as viruses, bacteria, or chemicals.

Causes

Exact cause of sarcoidosis is not known, but it can results from the body’s immune system responding to an unknown substance. The infectious agents, chemicals, dust and a potential abnormal reaction to the body’s own proteins could be responsible for the formation of granulomas in the person who are genetically predisposed.
In some cases, immune system gets disturbed. They are like-

  • Excess smoking
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Poor nutrition
  • Stress
  • Inhaling of foreign pollutant particles

According to Ayurveda, causes may include – (Charak Chikitsa- 12/5-6)

  • Regular intake of alkaline, sour, irritant, hot and heavy substances
  • Excessive use of uncooked food
  • Defective and poisoned food
  • Lack of movements
  • Injury to vitals etc.

Sign and Symptoms

There are some general symptoms which are present, these symptoms are:

  • Fatigue
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Weight loss
  • Pain and swelling in joints, such as the ankles
  • Fever
  • Dry mouth
  • Nosebleeds

Sarcoidosis sometimes develops gradually and produces symptoms that last for years and other times, symptoms appear suddenly and then disappear just as quickly. Signs and symptoms of sarcoidosis depend on the organs which are affected. These symptoms are:

1. Lung symptoms – Most commonly sarcoidosis affects the lungs. Lung symptoms may include:

  • Persistent dry cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Chest pain

2. Skin related symptoms- Sarcoidosis may cause skin problems, which may include symptoms like:

  • Rash of red or reddish-purple, which may be warm and tender to the touch
  • Disfiguring sores (lesions)
  • Growths under the skin (nodules)
  • Hair loss
  • Raised scars

3. Eyes symptoms – Sarcoidosis can also affect the eyes, so it’s important to have your eyes checked regularly. Eyes symptoms may include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Eye pain
  • Burning and itching in the eyes
  • Dry eyes
  • There can be severe redness in the eyes
  • Eyes are sensitivity to light
  • Watering from eyes

4. Cardiac sarcoidosis – When sarcoidosis is related to heart it is known as Cardiac sarcoidosis. The symptoms may include:

  • Chest pain
  • Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
  • Syncope (fainting)
  • Fatigue
  • Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
  • Palpitations (rapid or fluttering heart beat)
  • Edema (swelling caused by excess fluid)

5. Nervous system symptoms – Sarcoidosis also affect our nervous system, the symptoms may include:

  • Seizures
  • Hearing loss
  • Headaches
  • Sarcoidosis can also affect calcium metabolism, liver, spleen, muscles, bones, joints, kidneys, lymph nodes, or any other organ.

Risk factors

Sarcoidosis can develop in anyone but there are some factors that may increase your risk toward sarcoidosis. They may include:

  • Age- Sarcoidosis can occur at any age, but often occurs between the ages of 20 and 60 years.
  • Sex – Women are slightly more prone to the disease.
  • Race – African and Americans are more chances to develop sarcoidosis.
  • Family history – If someone in the family has had sarcoidosis, one can have more chances to develop the sarcoidosis because it travels through genes.

Complications

Sometimes sarcoidosis causes many complications which are as follows:

  • Lungs – Untreated pulmonary sarcoidosis can lead to permanent scarring known as pulmonary fibrosis, which cause difficulty in breathing and can also cause pulmonary hypertension.
  • Eyes – Sarcoidosis may cause damage to the retina, which can eventually cause blindness. Sarcoidosis also can cause cataracts and glaucoma, but it is rare.
  • Kidneys – Sarcoidosis can lead to kidney stones and reduce kidney function. Rarely, this can lead to kidney failure also.
  • Heart – Cardiac sarcoidosis can form granulomas in heart which can disrupt heart rhythm, blood flow and normal heart function which can also lead to death.
  • Nervous system – Granulomas can also form in the brain and spinal cord causing Inflammation in the facial nerves that can lead to facial paralysis.

Diagnosis

It is very difficult to diagnose sarcoidosis because symptoms of sarcoidosis can be similar to other diseases, such as arthritis or cancer etc. Firstly physical examination should be done, after that diagnostic tests should done which can help to exclude other disorders. The diagnostic tests may include:

  • Chest X-ray
  • Blood and Urine test
  • CT(Computerized tomography)scan of the chest
  • ECG (Electrocardiogram)
  • Regular eye check-up
  • A regular checkup from a cardiologist
  • PET (Positron emission tomography) scan
  • MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
  • Lung (pulmonary) function tests
  • Biopsy can also be done

Treatment

As, there is no cure for Sarcoidosis in modern science but one can get rid of sarcoidosis naturally with the help of Ayurveda.

  • Shamshodhan chikitsa (Detoxification process) – Deepan (inflaming the digestive fire) – It is the process which stimulates digestion or enhances digestive fire.
  • Pachana (digestion) – It is the process of taking of herbs so you can digest liquefied butter otherwise known as ghee to dissolve fat-soluble toxins.
  • Snehan (Oleation Therapy) – It is process of oleation of the body by using medicated oils and ghee externally and by their consumption as well.
  • Vamana (Emesis) – It is a procedure in which doshas (waste products or toxins) are eliminated through mouth.
  • Virechana (Purgation) – It is the process of inducing bowel movements by herbal combinations, which are taken through mouth, detoxification happens through anus.
  • Basti (enema) – It is the procedure in which medicated oil or herbal decoction is administered through the anal route.

Herbal remedies of Planet Ayurveda

Herbal remedies of Planet Ayurveda contains 100% natural products which are absolutely free from chemicals, additives, extra colors, fillers and yeast etc. these formulations are purely vegetarian and contain all the pure herbs explained in ancient Ayurvedic texts. These remedies help in balancing all the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, Kapha in body and supports healthy digestive system by maintaining healthy metabolism. The herbal remedies which can help to get rid of sarcoidosis are as follows:

  1. Curcumin Capsules
  2. Kanchnaar Guggul
  3. Aller-G Care
  4. Punarnava Mandur
  5. Product description

    1. Curcumin Capsules-

    These Curcumin capsules contain standardized extract of curcuminoids present in Haldi (Turmeric) which is responsible for the remarkable properties exhibited by it. These capsules are very versatile which can help to maintain a healthy body and mind. Turmeric may be effective at relieving symptom like pain.
    Dosage- 2 capsules two times daily with plain water after meals.

    2. Kanchnaar Guggul-

    Planet Ayurveda’s Kanchnaar guggul contains, Guggul (Commiphora mukul) and Kachnaar (Bauhinia variegata).This remedy reduces inflammation and swelling and provides relief from the painful condition and also proved to subside any kind of extra growth in body.
    Dosage- 2 tablets three times per day with plain water after meals.

    3. Aller-G Care-

    The name of this remedy itself clears that these capsules will act as anti allergens. Aller-G Care contains Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Neem (Azadirachtaindica), Haridra (Curcuma longa) and Shirish (Albizialebbeck).These capsules helps in supporting a healthy lung function and maintaining normal breathing, which is helpful in dealing with symptoms of Sarcoidosis like Chest pain, Shortness of breath etc.
    Dosage- 2 capsule two times in a day with plain water after meals.

    4. Punarnava Mandur-

    Punarnava Mandur contain the herbs such as Punarnava (Boerhaviadiffusa), Trivrit (Operculinaturpethum), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Marich (Piper nigrum) etc. This herbal remedy is one of the best herbal remedies which is very effective in swelling or inflammation and also helps to eliminate toxins out from the body.
    Dosage- 2 tablets two times a day with plain water after meals.
    Home remedies

      • Walk for at least 30-45 min daily
      • Skipping of meals should be avoided.
      • One should drink at least 8-10 glass of water regularly
      • One should take a diet which should be rich in nutritional value
      • Take less amount of fat or processed sugar diet
      • Avoid alcohol
      • Stop smoking (because smokers are more common for pulmonary sarcoidosis)
      • Regularly go for checkups
      • Soaked almond 5 pieces daily

    Conclusion

    Some of people which are suffering from sarcoidosis are left with some permanent lung damage, and in some of the patients the disease is chronic. In some cases death from sarcoidosis can also occur and this disease causes serious damage to vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, or heart as well. Modern medications can cause side effects like weight gain, insomnia, and difficulty regulating blood sugar etc. but this condition can be managed very well with Ayurvedic treatment because Ayurveda thinks different from the modern treatment. With the help of Ayurveda one can get rid of sarcoidosis without facing any side effect. So, isn’t Ayurveda is the best way to get rid of sarcoidosis???