A PSA test, or prostate-specific antigen test, measures the amount of PSA in the blood. While all men have some PSA in their blood, high levels may indicate prostate cancer or non-cancerous problem with the prostate, like prostatitis. According to the National Cancer Institute, there is no established normal or abnormal level of PSA, but age-specific PSA ranges may be used. If you have a high PSA level, talk to your doctor about what this could mean for you, and ways to help reduce the level, including herbal supplements. Before consuming any herb, consult with your doctor to make sure it is safe for you to use.
Take a supplement called PC-Spes2. According to a 2008 study by M Shabbir et al., published in the journal "Oncology Reports," this supplement reduced PSA levels in seven out of 10 patients in the course of one month. PC-Spes2 contains eight herbs and has been shown to inhibit prostate cancer cell growth. Ask your doctor if this is safe for you to consume.
Take a pomegranate supplement. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, compounds like tannins and polyphenols in this supplement help reduce inflammation, contain antioxidant properties and help lower serum PSA levels. You can also drink pomegranate juice.
Consume a milk thistle supplement. A 2005 study published in "Cancer Research" by P. Davis-Searles, et al., found that compounds in milk thistle helped suppress prostate antigen secretion, as well as inhibited prostate cancer cell growth. Ask your doctor if you should use milk thistle before consuming it, as it may not be appropriate for everyone.
Drink green tea, or take a green tea supplement. A plant compound called EGCG helps lower PSA levels and decreases the risk of developing prostate cancer, according to a 2004 article by E. Pezzato et al, published in the "International Journal of Cancer."
Tip
A healthy diet full of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and minimal alcohol consumption can help prevent prostate cancer and promote prostate health, says MayoClinic.com. Maintaining a healthy weight may affect hormone levels that can increase prostate cancer risk, and a healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent obesity.
Warning
Before using any herbs or supplements, it is best to consult your health care provider. These supplements may be natural, but they still have the potential to cause adverse interactions with other supplements or medications. Individuals with certain medical conditions may need to avoid certain supplements, and your doctor can help provide you with dosing information and any precautions you should take.
References
- PubMed.gov: "Oncology Reports"; Phase I Trial of PC-Spes2 in Advanced Hormone-Refractory Prostate Cancer; M Shabbir et al; 2008
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Pomegranate
- "Cancer Research": Milk Thistle and Prostate Cancer: Differential Effects of Pure Flavonoligans from Silybum marianum on Antiproliferative End Points in Human Prostate Carcinoma Cells; P Davis-Searles et al; 2005
- PubMed.gov: "International Journal of Cancer"; Prostate Carcinoma and Green Tea: PSA-triggered Basement Membrane Degradation and MMP-2 Activation are Inhibited by (-)Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate; E Pezzato et al; 2004
- MayoClinic.com: Prostate Cancer Prevention: What Can You Do?
- National Cancer Institute: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
Writer Bio
Jaime Herndon has been writing for health websites since 2009 and has guest-blogged on SheKnows. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and women's studies, she earned a Master of Science in clinical health psychology and a Master of Public Health in maternal-child health. Her interests include oncology, women's health and exercise science.
