Men's health matters

Prostate problems, low libido, lack of motivation, sleepless nights? Read on for the herbs that could help to solve your problem

It’s Men’s Heath Week again (June 15th- 21st) so why not celebrate it by reading up on the herbal remedies that could help you (or your partner) stay in the best of the health.

Men are notoriously difficult when it comes to looking after their health. More often than not they put off going to the doctor, won’t even consider booking a visit to the local herbalist and look at you with horror at the mere suggestion that a herbal remedy or supplement could give their health a much needed boost.

If this sounds familiar it’s time to ring the changes and put health top of your priority list. Remember a few protective measures can help to ward off illness in the long term while a selection of herbal remedies could be all that’s needed to lift flagging energy levels and boost the spirits.

To protect your prostate

If you can’t go to the cinema without first checking where the gents are or your partner is complaining about your nightly trips to the loo you need to get your prostate looked at. You may be one of the 2.4 million men suffering from benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), especially if you are also experiencing an irregular flow of urine plus a feeling that you have never quite emptied your bladder.

The condition is usually benign, but occasionally urinary problems can be the first sign of prostate cancer, especially if there is also blood in the urine, which is why it is so important to get symptoms checked by your GP.

If BPH is diagnosed, standardised extracts of saw palmetto have become an accepted treatment. BPH appears to be triggered by abnormally high levels of the male hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in prostate tissue. Research shows that saw palmetto works by reducing absorption of these hormones within the prostate gland, while reducing inflammation and swelling. It can also help other symptoms of BPH such as having to go the loo more often, especially at night, weak urinary flow and difficulty in emptying the bladder completely.

To boost your sex life

If you are having trouble with your lovemaking rather than ordering Viagra from the Internet reach for some ginkgo instead. It can help to improve blood flow to the extremities and has been shown to help men achieve and sustain an erection, especially if this has become difficult because arteries and blood vessels in the penis have narrowed.

Horny goat weed is another herb that can help to boost libido. It is believed to be a potent aphrodisiac, with some reports suggesting that it could be as helpful as the most popularly prescribed medicines for impotence problems. Extracts appear to work by increasing blood pressure in and around the penis.

To lower your stress levels

Feeling tired and finding it hard to get or stay motivated?  It could be time for a dose of rhodiola. Considered by herbalists to be an adaptogen, meaning it has the ability to increase the body's resistance, it is fast becoming a popular remedy for beating stress as well as building up strength and energy.

Ginseng is another herb to consider if your energy levels are running on low.

To help you sleep better

A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing. It is the most natural way of recharging your batteries and ensuring you perform at optimum levels. Lack of sleep, however, can have a negative effect on your every waking moment. Among other things it can lower your mood, weaken your concentration, and leave you feeling anxious and performing at less than 100 per cent.

If insomnia starts to darken your nights try a soothing cup of camomile tea or a herbal helper such as valerian or passiflora. Alternatively, a few drops of pure essential lavender oil sprinkled on your pillow can help induce sweet dreams.

Must do checklist

• Give up smoking
• Enjoy a drink but be sensible
• Build regular exercise into your life
• Follow a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and veg
• Watch your weight
• Take time to relax