The herb that improves prostate health and mood
This medicinal plant is well known for its sedative, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
The prostate is a small gland in men that is part of their reproductive system. This small body part is about the size of a walnut and is located low in the pelvis, below the bladder and almost in front of the rectum, according to the US National Cancer Institute.
As such, this gland in men is responsible for producing semen, the milky fluid that carries sperm from the testicles to the penis when the man ejaculates. Also, the prostate surrounds part of the urethra, a tube that carries urine out of the bladder and through the penis.
Typically, the prostate changes as the body ages, as the gland tends to grow with age and squeezes the urethra, causing problems passing urine. In some cases, men in their 30s and 40s may begin to feel these urinary symptoms, so they should see a doctor for an assessment.
However, there are cases in which there are no early symptoms, but are felt much later, to the point that a tumor or an infection can be caused that can cause the prostate to enlarge and thus generate prostatitis. This condition presents symptoms such as urination problems, a burning sensation, chills, high fever, pressure or pain in the rectum, genital throbbing, painful ejaculation, and sexual problems.
To prevent this disease, there are natural remedies that improve the health of the prostate, but their use should be consulted by a health specialist so as not to run any risk. Therefore, the magazine Mejor con Salud points out that Chinese skullcap is a medicinal herb that has antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties that not only help prevent diseases such as prostatitis, but also help to raise the mood.
According to a publication in Science Bulletin, the Chinese have used skullcap roots for more than 2,000 years to prepare various remedies. Normally, they use it in decoctions or tinctures, because this is how a wide variety of phytochemicals are concentrated, among which flavones and aglycones stand out.
Regarding prostate health, popular literature indicates that skullcap reduces the risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Even the Chinese population consumes the herbal supplement and the infusion as a preventive measure for the prostate. Additionally, a study in mice published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that Chinese skullcap root extract suppressed abnormal androgen events in prostate tissue, thus preventing the onset of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Skullcap is also classified as a nervous and sedative restorative plant, which helps reduce states of nervousness, anxiety, stress, and depression. This plant contains baicalin, an active compound that is related to reducing the effects of low mood.
How to consume this medicinal plant?
According to Mejor con Salud magazine , skullcap can be consumed via capsules, tea, extracts, and tincture; however, its consumption should be consulted by a health specialist to know the indicated dose.
Infusion: 5 grams of this plant should be placed in a portion of water and then allowed to boil for later consumption. The ideal is to drink between 2 or 3 cups a day.
Tincture: experts advise diluting between 20 and 40 drops of skullcap extract in a portion of water and consume 3 times a day.
Capsules: normally experts advise consuming 2 times a day, but this may vary depending on each person.
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