It is estimated that half of all men in the United States will experience the inconvenient side effects of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Prostate Rx may help lower this statistic. Combining four natural, botanical extracts with key trace elements and elemental lycopene, MedQuest’s Prostate Rx may inhibit or lower testosterone’s metabolism into DHT and estradiol, lower cellular proliferation in prostate tissue, and reduce the age-related decline of prostaglandin production. MedQuest has also added Graminex™ flower pollen to Prostate Rx, because numerous clinical trials have shown it to be particularly beneficial for prostate and urinary function.
To understand the action of the ingredients found in MedQuest’s Prostate Rx, it’s important to first understand the hormonal theories behind benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is believed that hormones fuel the manifestation of BPH, although the culprits have not entirely been decided. Like women, men after the age 50 experience hormonal changes: the level of free testosterone decreases while estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin (SHGB) increase. Also, a stronger metabolite of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) increases in prostatic tissue, which may stimulate the prostate to swell. The ingredients in Prostate Rx work by inhibiting the synthesis of estradiol and DHT and, therefore, help negate the negative effects of an enlarged prostate.
Functions in the Body:
Pygeum - This herb, from an African prune tree, is often used in France to treat problematic age-related prostate disorders. Pygeum, like saw palmetto, also contains phytosterols that have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the prostate. Studies have also shown that pygeum reduces prolactin levels and inhibits cholesterol levels in the prostate. It acts as an antibiotic which helps limit the side effects of BPH. Pygeum:
- Inhibits fibroblast growth and cellular proliferation in the prostate.
- Decreases the aromatization of testosterone into estradiol.
- Increases prostatic secretions.
Saw Palmetto - Saw palmetto is a dwarf palm that thrives in the southeastern areas of the United States. The tiny berries that grow on this tree contain powerful compounds that consist of fatty acids and phytosterols, which work to oppose BPH and other prostate maladies. These composites of Saw Palmetto may halt the disturbing effects of prostate enlargement by:
- Inhibiting the production of DHT.
- Decreasing the binding of DHT to androgen receptors in the prostate cells.
- Blocking the effects of estradiol on prostate tissue.
Nettle - Like pygeum and saw palmetto, nettle also has phytosterols that enact an anti-inflammatory response on the prostate. An herb that grows wildly in the United States, nettle works symbiotically with pygeum and saw palmetto to offset the effects of BPH. The known benefits of nettle are:
- Inhibits the aromatization of testosterone to estradiol. Reduces the binding action of SHBG.
- Inhibits prostate membrane Na+, K+-ATPase activity.
- Blocks epidermal growth factor receptors and 5-alpha reductase-the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.
Lycopene - Lycopene is the compound that makes watermelons and tomatoes red and lately has received a lot of press for its therapeutic role in various cancers. Recently, researchers have found that lycopene seems to slow the growth of prostate cancer and reduce the aggressiveness of the disease. Lycopene was added to the mix to keep the prostate in tiptop shape and promote prevention of possible prostate cancer.
Graminex™ Flower Pollen Extract - Graminex™ flower pollen extract contributes a unique, natural spectrum of amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, phytosterols, nucleic acids, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes and has been shown in numerous clinical trials to be particularly beneficial for prostate and urinary function.
Zinc - In prostatitis, zinc levels are only one-tenth of those in a normal prostate. Zinc is a major constituent of seminal fluid and a deficiency can lower sperm count. It is also helpful with enlarged prostates, since zinc deficiency results in prostate enlargement.
Selenium - A 1998 study in the International Journal of The Cancer Institute found that men consuming the most dietary selenium (assessed indirectly by measuring toenail selenium levels) developed 65% fewer cases of advanced prostate cancer than did men with the lowest levels of selenium intake.
Reported Uses:
Lycopene - One report in April 1999 featured in the annual meeting of the American Association of Cancer Research, found that lycopene, the stuff that makes tomatoes and watermelons red is also the stuff that slows the rate of prostate cancer. Patients who were slated for prostate surgery were given either lycopene supplements twice daily or nothing at all. Three weeks later 14 of the 21 patients taking lycopene had prostate cancer confined to the prostate, whereas only 3 of the 11 absent of lycopene had cancer confined to the gland. The lycopene group also had lower PSA scores and lower grade cancers. Another study looked at men's lycopene levels, measured in 1982 compared to their current prostate health status. Men who had higher levels of lycopene in 1982 had a 60 percent lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer than those who started the study with lower levels.
Saw Palmetto - Saw palmetto is the most celebrated herb for prostate treatments. Studies have shown that saw palmetto is a safe, highly desirable option for men suffering from moderately symptomatic BPH. Studies have shown that the herbal remedy, saw palmetto, can sit alongside conventional, pharmaceutical concoctions, like finasteride, and hold its own. In fact, many men prefer saw palmetto over finasteride because of its efficacy and lack of side effects. The Journal of the American Medicine Association stated that although the studies have been small in stature and short in duration concerning saw palmetto, they have shown that this common herb provides moderate to significant improvement in urinary tract symptoms and urinary flow and are associated with fewer adverse effects.
Nettle - Nettle root is a natural complement to pygeum and saw palmetto as a 5 alpha-reductase (the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT) inhibitor and as an effective aromatase (the enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen) inhibitor. Studies have also shown that nettle may have an antiproliferative effect on human prostate cancer cells.
Pygeum - Pygeum is a powerful healing herb that has been shown to reduce the symptoms of prostate enlargement and in some studies has been shown to increase sexual ability. A multi-center trial in central Europe revealed that men experienced a 31 percent enhancement in their quality of life scores and a 40 percent improvement in their International Prostate Symptom Score. Nocturnal frequency was reduced by 32 percent. Needless to say, the study concluded with men happier than when they started. There were no reported side effects.
Suggested Usage: Take one capsule twice daily, or as directed by your physician. BPH is a condition many men suffer from. If you think you may be one of those men, consult your doctor about natural remedies.
Toxicity / Contraindications: The ingredients in this formula have been found to be non-toxic, both long and short term. The most common side effect is indigestion which can be abated when taken with food. Pregnant or nursing women should not take this formula. It may also have an effect on the menstrual cycle, so it is advised to be avoided by pre-menopausal women. If you are currently on Finasteride, you should speak to your physician prior to using. The herbs in this formula have many of the same effects as Finasteride.
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