a herbal treatment for hormone induced prostatitis

a herbal treatment for hormone induced prostatitis (and secondary hypogonadism)


INTRODUCTION:

This non profit site is directed to herbal balancing of hormones in the aging male for the purpose of eliminating and or reducing health issues such as prostatitis, hair loss, urinary tract problems testicular atrophy / degeneration and mood changes. Some 70% of men over age 40, and many younger, can resolve all such problems with the use of a combination of herbal supplements. Most find relief in just 3 days.

Let there be no mistake in the conclusion that most hormone issues in aging men are caused by low total testosterone (secondary hypogonadism) and or low free testosterone. Low means low normal and not just results outside the range given by the lab.

Created 02-02-2002 Updated 1-29-2008

Please link to this page and these below.

Books and web sites of interest to Men .

ZIMBABWE BY LINCOLN HUGHES
A riviting novel combining African big game hunting with post-revolutionary activity in Zimbabwe. Exciting and fun reading by a veteran African hunter. Available on Amazon.

SEVENTH PSALM BY JONATHAN BRUCE
An action thriller based on the lives of real people and actul events in the modern day war on terror. This book is captivatiing. Once you start reading you won't want to put it down. Written by guys who have been there and done that. Available on Amazon.

How I Cured Candida Of the Digestive Tract: http://www.oocities.org/hcraiga/candidacure.html

How I Cured Bacterial Prostatitis: http://www.oocities.org/bill3320/index.html

Safari Hunting Africa: http://www.oocities.org/marlon3320/AMATEURS-GUIDE-TO-HUNTING-SOUTH-AFRICAN-PLAINS-GAME-CAPE-BUFFALO.html

Men Marriage And Financial Castration. A self help guide for men only: http://www.oocities.org/hcraiga/

MALE ANDROPAUSE HORMONE BALANCING

THE INFORMATION IN "a herbal treatment for hormone induced prostatitis" IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN. ANYONE SEEKING TO TAKE ANY OF THE THERAPIES DISCUSSED IN THIS SECTION, OR ANYWHERE ON THIS WEB SITE, SHOULD ONLY DO SO UNDER THE CARE OF A PHYSICIAN OR OTHER HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL.

Hormone replacement is inaccurate for men as it is actually hormone balancing and supplementation which men must accomplish. Women need replacement in later life as the female body at menopause stops making hormones all together. Men on the other hand generally change the balance of hormones resulting elevated levels of certain negative hormones thereby causing prostatitis, hair loss, mood change and numerous other age related issues.

FAST START TREATMENT AND TESTING PROCEDURE

PHASE ONE:
Buy a bottle of soy isoflavones, preferrably tablets that can be broken in half. (Walmart, Spring Valley brand works good.) Take one half isoflavone in the morning and one half in the evening for three days. (On the first day you can take two or three at the same time and then drop back, works faster.) Increase the dose every three days by one half tablet until you find the optimal dose for symptom relief of urgency and prostate issues. Keep records of your symptoms. This will tell you whether estradiol is a factor in your prostatitis. You can stay on this supplement indefinitly. More is not better.

PHASE TWO:
If you still have symptoms after finding the right dose of isoflavones buy a bottle of saw palmetto, raw fruit, not extract. The extracts are often too strong. While still using isoflavones start taking one pill in the morning and one pill in the evening. Increase your dose by one pill every three days until you find the perfect dose. More is not better. Take a one week break from saw palmetto every month. This will tell you whether DHT is a factor in your prostatitis.

NOW READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE TO UNDERSTAND THE ISSUES

-MALE ANDROPAUSE, MID LIFE CRISIS AND HORMONAL PROSTATITIS: Men in their mid 40's go through what most laugh at as mid life crisis. This is often a hormone related change in personality. Before you let your doctor put you on prozac or some other mind altering narcotic try what attacks the problem: Saw Palmetto, Nettle Root, Isoflavones, DHEA, Maca Root, Tribulus, Oats Extract, acidophilus and or a variety of other supplements!

This hormonal change is caused by the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol (E) in an ever increasing abundance. It is believed that the prolactin hormone is increased in the male body with age because less and less free T is available due to the effects of SHBG which ties up the free T (and or due to lower levels of total T). In turn the prolactin pushes up the DHT to offset the lack of available free T. DHT is about 4 times more powerful than regular T and causes the prostate to start growing plus causes many painful side effects. The E becomes out of sync with the total T level also causing issues.

This slow "demasculination" of men with age has numerous negative consequences, including but not limited to hair loss, fatigue, fat gain, muscle loss, insulin/diabetes, gynecomastia, and prostate enlargement, prostate pain, lowered libido, impotence, low ejaculate volume, testicular atrophy / degeneration,urgency of urination, dry or retrograde ejaculation and, oh yes, sever and painful prostatitis.

Saw Palmetto reduces production of dihydrotestosterone and prolactin its catalyst. This can have a significant impact on the male personality while Nettle Root and oats extract reduces estradiol levels and inhibits SHBG respectively. DHEA stimulates hormone production. Together, these and many other alternative supplements can be used to reduce and often completely negate these negative effects of aging.

Research this issue carefully before entering into a self treatment program with herbs. A comprehensive hormone panel should be taken to measure blood levels of free and total testosterone, estradiol, total estrogens, luteinizing hormone, IGF-1, prolactin, DHEA, and several other hormones.Testing the adrenal glands, hypothalamus and thyroid are also very important. Seek help from an endocrinologist and generally not a urologist. Homeopathic practitioners often are more helpful in treating such issues with herbs. Prescription testosterone supplements, HGH and HCG should not be ruled out.

Tests should be performed monthly until symptoms are stable or until 6 months have passed and then 2 to 4 times a year thereafter. See: http://musclemonthly.com/print/010515-ullis-hormone-replacement-therapy.htm

Remember that normal doesn't mean anything in hormone testing. You must find what is normal and comfortable for your body. One man may be comfortable with a T level in the low normal range and another be sick in the mid level range needing to be in the high range. This takes a lot of time and experimentation. Don't ever let a Dr. tell you that you are normal if you have any andropausal symptoms.

If the tests show a low total T or the total T in the lower half of normal for your age range you must consider T supplementation. Normal is a very subjective word in testing. Falling into the low normal range may very well indicate your causative issue. Thus, low total T is usually an indication of the need to boost the T level and T boosters are noted in the lower area of this paper. Low total T and low Luteinizing hormone is best treated by DHEA and Tribulus recipies shown below.

If your tests show average or high total T but low normal or low free T then you must focus on the DHT and SHBG blockers (Maca root and green oats extract formulas.).

Combining one each of three groups of the following supplements is most effective for proper treatment. First, and the easiest to use is the DHT blockers which block the d-alpha reductase enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT. Second are the anti-aromatase supplements that block the aromatase enzyme from converting testosterone into estradiol. Third are the phytoestrogens that take the place of estradiol and cause excretion of the excess estrogen in the body. Phytoestrogens have about 1/500 the strength of regular estrogen so this plant estrogen is really good for men if not taken to the point that all estrogen is eliminated. Remember estrogen drives the male libido so it is good and healthy to have estrogen. Men just don't want too much.The same goes for DHT which is a necessary hormone for sexual function and metabolism.

GROUP I: ANTI DHT

a. Saw Palmetto, 1/2 level teaspoon of frozen dry raw powder weighs 1100 mg*Most effective
b. Pygeum, 1/2 level teaspoon of dry raw powder weighs 1100 mg
c. Hydrangea root,1/2 level teaspoon of dry raw powder weighs 1000 mg

GROUP II: ANTI AROMATASE

a. Chrysin
b. Quercetin
c. Nettle root?,1/2 level teaspoon of dry raw powder weighs 800 mg
d. Dimm or Di-Indolin or Diindolylmethane or Diindolymethane (sic)*Most effective
e. Apigenin
f.   Naringenin
g. Methoxyisoflavone
h. Zinc
i. Arimidix

GROUP III: PHYTO ESTROGENS

a. Isoflavones, soy or clover- red clover at 1/2 level teaspoon of dry raw powder weighs 700 mg
b. Flax seed oil
c. Soy protein or soy products in general
d. Ipriflavone
e. Nettle root, 1/2 level teaspoon of dry raw powder weighs 800 mg
f. Quercetin?
g. Green tea

GROUP IV: TESTOSTERONE BOOSTERS

a.Tribulus
b. Maca Root
c. DHEA
d. Oats extract
f. Testosterone supplements
g. HGH
h. HGC
i. Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) Effexor ER(venlafaxine hcl)
j. Chaste berry (vitex agnus)
k. 5-HTP

One supplement from each of groups 1 to 3 is generally combined to effectively battle the DHT and E issues. The hardest part of treatment is to establish the correct dosage of each. Generally you will need only one E blocker. However combining one that is anti-aromatase and the other from the phytoestrogen family will improve effectiveness. E is no tougher to fight than DHT and combining two has much better results but makes it harder to dose. Experiment, document and never give up.

Use symptoms associated with excess E or DHT to help dose if you can't get proper testing. I use the coldness of feet, nipple size and libido to predict my level of E. Cold feet at night and lowered libido mean too much E which in turn means that I must increase my anti-estrogen or reduce the anti-DHT. Caution, isoflavones whan taken without the anti-DHT can also cause cold feet (DHEA can help with the cold feet and the low testosterone issue). DHT causes hair loss and difficulty in urination along with sharp prostate pain for me. Thus, more DHT blocker or less E blocker is warranted. These are somewhat fickle symptoms as E can cause similar issues as DHT. Generally excess E causes more of a buring prostate pain which coincides with the cold feet at night. If you really want to know what symptom is caused by DHT then use a high dose of anti-aromatase for about 3 days which will artificially pump up the DHT. If you want to know what E does then use a high dose of anti-DHT without any other supplement for a few days. The DHT blocker may negate all symptoms as it pumps up the E level and for many will shut down the prostate and make you feel fine temporarily (some find complete relief for as long as 9 months and only then symptoms of E dominance will manifest). For most it will create a new group of negative symptoms that should be documented as associated with E.

Large and soft nipples, the size of half dollars generally indicates too much estrogen and or too little testosterone. On the other hand small hard, rock hard nipples the size of a dime is an indication of too little estrogen and or too much testosterone.

Powder vs. Pills: Not all nutritional supplements are the same. Many do not live up to the label with purity. I prefer the raw powdered herb and then adjust dosage based upon potency of that batch. The standardized extracts are not very consistent and difficult to dose because they are in pill form. All pills are hard to dose as most require about 2 to 6 pills per day. Changing dose from 2 to 3 pills per day is a 50% increase in quantitiy. Thus, my strongest suggestion is to buy bulk powdered herbs and dose down th the 1/10 of a gram. Then buy bulk from a supply house that guarantees fresh product such as HERBALCOM: http://www.herbalcom.com/index.php3

When buying pill or extracts (chrysin) which don't come in bulk buy from a lab that guarantees analysis and that offers access to tests to back it up. Twin Labs is a good one as is GNC and GENN.

Buy a gram scale that measures down to the 1/10 of a gram, I found mine on ebay for $45. Then buy bulk from a supply house that guarantees fresh product such as HERBALCOM: http://www.herbalcom.com/index.php3 Mix the powder with a liquid or applesauce before administration.

The alternative to the gram scale is a measuring spoon set. This is very cheap and quite accurate if each spoon is leveled with out packing. The general rule is that each 1/2 teaspoon full is 700mg to 1200mg.The weight isn't too important as it's the final dose that counts. Once you get close it's easy to adjust based on volume. Mix the raw powder with apple sauce or some liquid for administration. What ever you do don't try to eat raw powder from a spoon as it will cause choking.

Take 1/2 of the daily dose in the morning and 1/2 of the daily dose in the evening. The exception is the DHT blocker which is best taken one time per day, in the morning. This better imitates the circadian rythm.

When establishing a dosage start with the levels suggested below and then change the dose for one supplement at a time for 3 days at a time to see if you get the necessary benefit. Carefully document. As you get close to optimum dosages it may take 6 days for each dosage change to see if its going to work.

When using pills try to have one supplement that you can use to adjust the anti estrogen dosage easily. For example flax seed oil can be easily managed as it comes in an 8 oz liquid form. Thus, one can go from a few drops a day to 2 tablespoons per day.

-Seven day break: I strongly suggest that supplements are used 21 days on and 7 days off to avoid building a tolerance and side effects. The seven day break means a break from everything including zinc and the vitamins.Go cold turkey for as long as you can on the 7 day break. I have found that immediately starting with ibuprofen or aspirin at 2 in the morning and two in the afternoon will make the 7 days go easier for the prostatitis sufferer. Start such immediately and you will get by longer than if you wait for pain and swelling to start. In the alternative use progesterone and alternative recipes on the break instead of the anti inflammatories. Use the break to test new formulas and dosages.

-Fasting: Use fasting to determine which nutritional supplement works best and which foods irritate the prostate and other health conditions the most. Go on a bland diet with minimal calories for at least 3 days and then add one new food each 2 or 3 days to see what causes the most problems. A bland diet may consist of rice , apple sauce, water packed tuna, boiled or broasted lean hormone free meat and so on. Use the same with your herbal remedies to see what helps the most.

RECIPES(all recipes list amounts based upon raw dried powdered herbs. Low numbers are maintenance and high humbers are more theraputic in nature. Each person much constantly re-evaluate their needs as the body heals and ages. For some the DHEA and supplements in the first paragraph will be sufficient to solve most of the issues. Thus, start slowly and see what you need after you are on DHEA for a few weeks.)

I use the following in addition to all the recipes below:
50 mg of zinc with copper,
200mc of selenium,
400 units of vitamin E acetate,
32 oz water in the morning and again in the afternoon

PROSTATITIS RECIPES

I split the recipes into 2 parts with half in the morning and half in the evening. Use for three weeks on and then take a one week break.

My daily recipe: I use 1400 to 2000 mg of hydrangea root (raw powder), 1000 to 4000 mg of nettle root (raw powder).

-My second daily recipe: In place of hydrangea root in the first recipe above I use 1600 to 2200 mg of pygeum or 1400 to 2200 mg of saw palmetto and change the following 500 mg of quercetin and 1000 to 2000 mg of nettle root . Of course you need to spread it out over the day as best as possible. Use for three weeks on and one week off. Or use this for the one week off.

-My third daily recipe: In place of hydrangea root and nettle root in the first daily recipe above I use 500 mg of quercetin plus C and 2000mg of saw palmetto. Adjust using isoflavones which takes about 0 to 3 pills per day for no more than 120mg of most brands.

-DIM recipe: I use 1/2 to 2 dim Tablets per day with food. (Double strength dimm by Enzymatic Therapy) and 1800 to 2400 mg of saw palmetto. Excellent recipe and easy to monitor. Dimm is very strong and absorbs easily with food so over dosing is likely. Over dosing can cause retrograde (dry) ejaculation, loss of libido, strong lasting erections but difficulty reaching ejaculation and urgency of urination. Be careful with this one if you drink green tea and or use a lot of soy protein.

TESTOSTERONE BOOSTING RECIPES FOR SECONDARY HYPOGONADISM
(LOW TESTOSTERONE)

EXCELLENT HERBAL TESTOSTERONE RECIPE

-Morning:

-One to two soy isoflavone capsules or tablets plus 12-75mg DHEA, and 625 mg tribulus extract (Twinlabs) plus 0-2200mg saw palmetto raw powder. I pull the tribulus capsule apart if needed to split the dose in two for the first week.

-Afternoon or Early Evening:

12-75 mg DHEA and 625 mg tribulus extract (Twinlabs) and one to two soy isoflavone capsules or tablets. ( raw powder hydrangea root or pygeum can also take the place of saw palmetto.)

-Explaination: Note that the isoflavone may be substituted for other such herbs such as nettle root, chrysin, quercetin, ipriflavone, muira pauma, green tea, roibois tea,DIMM or any other phytoestrogen. I found DIMM the best at increasing total Testosterone level which is logical as it blocks conversion from estrogen to E. I use 12.5 mg of pure DIMM (50mg of DIMM at 25% purity.) in the evening.

Tribulus may need to be at 1/2 dose for a week or so while the testicles become acclimated to producing extra testosterone and may require up to 3 pills per day at 8 hour intervals to bring you to normal. Always take tribulus with food as it is a fiersom stomach irritant. Some mild testicular discomfort is experienced for the first week but will go away. If testicular pain continues adjust your doseages and take with food.

Saw palmetto may be needed for the first week or so until the testosterone production goes up to normal and then probably continued (the fortunate may be able to stop saw palmetto while on this formula).
DHEA is best dissolved between the upper lip and gum for at least 15 minutes. Once T levels rise to nornml levels DHEA my not be needed. Yet some can get along just fine with DHEA alone at 75 to 100 mg per day.

As with all herbs use for 3 weeks on and 1 week off to avoid building a tolerance..

A GOOD TESTOSTERONE BOOSTING RECIPE

-Morning:

-2.2 grams maca root, 12-25 mg DHEA, 1/2 or 1 soy isoflavone capsules , 50 mg zinc

-Mid afternoon:

-1.1 to 2.2 grams maca root, 12-25 mg DHEA, 1/2or 1 soy isoflavone capsules,   50 mg vitamin B6.

-Bed time:

-1.1 to 2.2 grams maca root, 12-25 mg DHEA, 1/2 or 1 soy isoflavone capsules, 450-900 mg saw palmetto for use if you wake up with urgency of urination but generally this formula needs no saw palmetto. (It seems to work a little better to use 250 mg of quercetin at bed time instead of the isoflavone.)

-Explaination: As with all herbs use for 3 weeks on and 1 week off. This makes for a good one week off recipe. Saw palmetto may be necessary for a few days (three days is sugested) until you build up to normal level of free T.

The dose of maca raw powder is above what most suggest but it does so well for me that I have stuck with it. Note that the maca hardly worked at all when using it without DHEA. With DHEA Maca is wonderful. DHEA alone is only marginally helpful until you get to the higher dose of 100 mg per day. So use your own judgment. I like the 12mg DHEA dose and take maca some 4x per day in somewhat smaller doses. Again, DHEA my not be needed after a week or so, or may be the only thing you need. Be flexible with your formula.

The goat weed really works well with this recipe and you can occasionally use 1/2 to 1 gram in combination when you want some extra sexual boost.

The isoflavone can be dropped and any variety of supplements used in its place such as nettle root, muira pauma, chrysin, green tea, DIMM and so on. Zinc may reduce your need for isoflavone.

All herbs are raw powder and NOT extracts. Some suggest 100 mg per day of DHEA but I fear such may suppress the bodys own natural production of something else. My research indicates that DHEA supplements do not inhibit the body's own production of DHEA unlike other hormones. If you take T supplements the body will slow down T production, pronto. Thus, DHEA should be safe and should not suppress other hormones. I am skeptical and proceed slowly.

BEST LIBIDO BOOSTING RECIPIE, BUT COMPLICATED

-6AM : One tribulus by Twinlabs(625mg) or two tribulus by Natrol(500mg) with food. . 700mg St Johns wort. 0-2200 mg saw palmetto.

-2 pm: One tribulus byTwinlabs (625mg) or 2 by Natrol (500mg) with food. 700mg St Johns wort.

-10pm: One tribulus by Twinlabs (625mg) or two tribulus by Natrol with food. (500mg) . 800mg nettle root.

Explaination

Pygeum works great with this formula when urgency of urination is experienced. So does hydrangea root. Using the 8 hour intervals levels the hormone level so keep on schedule. DHEA is usually used for at least the first week at about 50-75mg per day. You may need more nettle root if your body wants to convert T to E.

-St Johns Wort should be added to any recipe that causes anxiety or where stress or anxiety are high at that time in the individual's life. It also seems to have an anti-estrogen effect so you can reduce your use of isoflavones etc. It is also thought to reduce prolactin which causes excess DHT production.This herb reduces anxiety and can negate negative side effects of many herbs plus ease the stresses of a hectic life. Anxiety is thought to intensify pain and lower testosterone levels. Very safe and cost effective if purchased in bulk. Dose at about 2500 mg per day more or less. You don't need to micro manage this herb. 1/2 level teaspoon of dry raw powder weighs about 700 mg and 2 to 3 doses per day of 1/2 tsp is usually ok. I personally believe that it increases the testicular size and testosterone output ever so slightly. Perhaps because it stimulates serotonin production.

ANTI-DHT SUPPLEMENTS

-SAW PALMETTO (most over dosed and not a cure for testicular atrophy) is an ancient American Indian herbal remedy that will provide relief from most dihydrotestosterone (hereinafter DHT) related problems prostate pain, urgency of urination and male andropause symptoms. For many this is a miracle herb providing complete relief within 3 days or less. By those who have used both it is considered 10x better than the leading prescription Proscar. (Pygeum bark extract and hydrangea root are alternatives to saw palmetto.Green tea may also have similar properties along with anti-estrogenic effects.. Other natural alternatives are also available. Best taken once per day, in the morning.

TESTICULAR ATROPHY AND SAW PALMETTO: LET THERE BE NO MISTAKE THAT SAW PALMETTO IS NOT A CURE FOR TESTICULAR ATROPHY BUT MAY ACTUALLY CAUSE TESTICULAR SHRINKAGE IF USED WITHOUT AN ANTI-ESTROGEN HERB. NOTWITHSTANDING ALL THE ARTICLES ON THE INTERNET SHOWING THAT SAW PALMETTO IS A CURE FOR TESTICULAR ATROPHY IT IS WITHOUT A DOUBT GENERALLY NOT EFFECTIVE FOR THAT ISSUE IN MOST MEN. TAKEN ONCE DAILY IT WILL HELP RESTORE hpta AXIS WHILE ON THE SUPPLEMNT BUT THAT GENERALLY STOPS AFTER YOU QUIT. ONE MUST LOOK TO LH BOOSTERS SUCH AS PRESCRIPTIONS AND TRIBULUS, CLOMID AND HORNY GOAT WEED FOR SUCH.

Using saw palmetto to treat male andropause takes much less of the herb than to treat prostatitis so don't over do it. In my experience there is a magic spot for saw palmetto dosage. Going over may hurt more than it helps. For me 1.8 grams per day will cause prostate pain and let my hair fall out by the hand full but 2.3 grams per day will shut down my libido and make me feel like the neutered cat laying by the fireplace with feet that just can't stay warm. (Note that some men experience a greatly enhanced libido with the higher dose of saw palmetto. This is probably due to increased levels of E which drives the male libido. It may be due to impact on the HPTA feedback loup. ie. lowering DHT stimulates increased LH production. Yet others will suffer complete loss of libido probably due to the combined effect of low DHT and high E. Ergo, buy a gram scale and meter it down to the 1/10 of a gram. You should GENERALLY use an anti-estrogen supplement with any of the DHT blockers to counter the increase in estradiol and reduce the need for saw palmetto. Nettle root and isoflavones are the best known and most cost effective anti-estrogen supplements for use with saw palmetto. When used in conjunction you can usually cut saw palmetto usage close to half but eventually you will cycle to the point where a theraputic dosage is needed again. Get monthly hormone tests until you stabilize.

Warning: saw palmetto may actually slow the healing process when treating with antibiotic for prostate infections. This herbal remedy blocks or inhibits testosterone thereby shrinking the prostate. In the end less antibiotic rich blood enters the prostate during the antibiotic treatment. It may be better to take pain killers while on antibiotics and hold off on the saw palmetto until later. No research is available on this issue but it worked for me.

Very safe with no real side effects. The only caution is that most over or under dose this herb. Generally 2 grams per day is more than enough of the raw fruit. About 1400 to 1800 mg per day is excellent if you combine it with an anti estrogen program. At first most use about 2400 mg as theraputic to allow the body to heal. The need will wax and wane with age, sexual habit and other hormone therapy. Since DHT is needed for metabolism you may experience fatigue when taking too much. I have personally experienced such to the point that I could barely stay awake during the day.

The improper dosing is usually caused by hoax labeling. Read the label carefully as the dose on the label may mean one pill per day or it may require 2-4 pills several times per day. You must be diligent to read the label or you never will get it to work. Again, the standardized extracts have never been very reliable and are not recommended. Many buy the standardized extract thinking there is no difference or that it is better.

Saw palmetto may also lower the metabolism which usually manifests by a lowered body temperature and weight gain. Monitor your results to acquire the optimum dosage with lowest side effects. Clearly more is not better. This lowered metabolism may be caused by a reduction in free testosterone in the blood and an increase in estrodiol. See Chrysin below..

Duration of saw palmetto use depends on the type of prostatitis. Some poorly documented studies show that after 6 months to a full year the treatment is no longer needed to take care of prostatitis. Many find that its effectiveness fades after 9 months of continuous use and then change over to other DHT blockers combined with E blockers. Some lucky men can cut does to one day on and one day off and some even one day on and 2 off after several months of treatment. Eventually the problem will build up again requiring a more theraputic dosage.

Why saw palmetto cures the prostatitis problem after six months is a total mystery and probably a false finding. As is the usual course no research has been performed on this subject. My theory based on personal experience and discussions with other sufferers is that it allows the prostate to go dormant and rest thereby allowing the body to cure itself and remain strong enough to stave off the negative effects for a few months. Most can go off for a few months or weeks without problems but eventually do go back on after a period of time when the symptoms compound.

-Pygeum Bark (greatest side effects) is not as strong a DHT blocker as saw palmetto and has an upset stomach incident rate of about 13%. It is very popular in Europe and may work in a manner somewhat different than saw palmetto and for several different reasons. Dose at about 2 grams per day more or less if used alone. It is often mixed with saw palmetto and nettle root in various prostate formulas. Should be used with an anti-estrogen supplement. I experienced significant side effects of headaches and anxiety when using the raw powder. It may be that an extract will avoid some side effects. I used it with St. John's Wort to reduce the anxiety. Pygeum is the only DHT blocker that actually had an improvement on the libido.

At least one study indicates that pygeum is a mild antibiotic.

-Hydrangea Root: (AUTHOR'S CHOICE)is said to contain beta sisterol much like pygeum and saw palmetto. It is a lesser known treatment but written up as effective. LTTLE RESEARCH EXISTS. I experimented extensively with such and found that it has anti inflammatory properties and worked wonderfully with few side effects. It is number one on my list of DHT blockers for the one week break. Dosage is about 1.8 grams per day if used alone. More difficult to dose than saw palmetto. Generally take the whole dose in the morning with breakfast. Generally should be used CAUTIOUSLY with anti-estrogen supplements which may reduce the dose needed for maintenance. Each batch and person will vary. I am shocked that Body Builders and Power lifters have not latched onto this herb. It seems to multi task in the areas most needed. It is a powerful anti inflammatory, anti DHT, anti Estrogen and liver cleanse. It also appears to help with anxiety and appetite control. Some day a pharmaceutical company will discover this and synthesize something that will be worth a billion bucks selling to old guys like me.

- ANTI ESTROGENS: (Caution, good prostate health requires estrogen. Eliminating all estrogen will cause pain and damage to the prostate.) With the exception of the prescription medications most anti estrogens are weak and yet inexpensive so they can be combined to effectively solve the estradiol issues. The best combination is usually achieved with nettle root combined with either quercetin, an isoflavone or DIM. For most a daily dose of zinc and an isoflavone is all that is needed. Men have a small amount of estrogen so it is rather easy to over dose with this stuff. Still it is excess estrogen, usually estradiol that causes the pot bellies on older men. Estrogen promotes laying on of abdominal fat.

Remember that a diet high in tea, legumes such as soy and beans may be giving you plenty of anti-estrogens already. Be cautious of anti-estrogens if you already have a high soy diet or drink a lot of tea, especialy green tea. Go slowly and in small increments so you know what is happening. Stay on any one dose for at least 3 days and preferrably 6 days before making a decision.

Experiment, document and never give up. Again more is not always better as over dosing will cause many negative effects much similar to that with which most prostate sufferers started such as urgency of urination and prostate pain. Overdosing can cause loss of libido, testicular pain, prostate pain, dry ejaculations, and loss of erections in the morning.

-QUERCETIN may be an excellent alternative to nettle root. It has anti-estrogenic properties that seem to be dose related and has been the subject of some studies concerning prostate cancer. It is written up as having anti-aromatase properties and perhaps anti-DHT properties. It clearly inhibits estrogen receptors much like isoflavones and blocks the aromatase enzyyme. 500 mg to 2000 mg per day is effective for many and vitamin C or bromaline may increase effectiveness. It also may improve the effectiveness of Chrysin. I generally dose at 750 mg per day or less. It is hard to dose as it usually comes in 250 mg capsules which result in a 33% increase or decrease with only one capsule addition or deletion. This is another reason why I like powdered herbs that can be metered down to the 1/10 of a gram.

May cause sun sensitive eyes and some joint pain especially at doses up to 1500 mg. It also tends to cause a general feeling of malaise for the first few days or week. After about 2 weeks of higher dose use I could no longer use this supplement due to the sun sensitivity. It may be a better supplement to take the place of some isoflavones than a stand alone anti estrogen. It also helps the mood as I have far less anxiety when using Q. This is subjective and at dose of 750 mg. I don't know if a mere 250 mg per day will help with mood. Thus, in cases where pygeum is used causing anxiety, Q may be an excellent supplement.

-BROCCOLI TREATMENT has been reported effective in many prostatitis cases. This may be true because broccoli contains a lot of quercetin and vitamins which have a synergistic effect. See the link that follows: http://www.prostatitis.org/broccindex.html

-Chrysin: (most powerful and most expensive anti E) This nutritional supplement blocks the transformation of testosterone to estrodiol thereby increasing free testosterone and balancing the hormone level.. Use three weeks on and one week off. Always take this supplement on an empty stomach with a glass of water. It absorbs very poorly. When using chrysin you may need to adjust the level of saw palmetto as more T will try to convert to DHT. Or you may need to reduce your saw palmetto as symptoms related to excess estradiol may go away thereby eliminating some symptoms previously treated by saw palmetto. Dosage depends on the individual's physiology and yet most need about 1400 to 2000 mg of saw palmetto or pygeum or hydrangea to balance this supplement. The rule of herbs is: More is not always better.

While the sellers of chrysin may indicate that 1 to 3 grams daily is ok, it is my experience that a mere 250 mg per day has significant effects on sexuality and the most you should use is 500 mg per day as long as you take it on an empty stomach. Every person's physiology is different so you must experiment especially due to the difference in absorption of various brands and brand quality. Chrysin with piperine will absorb more readily and make any other supplements taken at the same time absorb more readily.

It is also thought that quercetin when taken with chrysin will enhance the estradiol blocking effect greater than if taken alone.

Chrysin the happy pill: In a study published in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior (1994), mice were injected with diazepam (Valium), chrysin, or placebo to evaluate the effects such substances had on anxiety and performance. Chrysin produced anti-anxiety effects comparable with diazepam, but without sedation and muscle relaxation (301). Chrysin produced a relaxing effect in the brain, but without impairment of motor activity. The mechanism of action of chrysin was compared to diazepam aka Valium, and was shown that unlike diazepam, chrysin can reduce anxiety without inducing the common side-effects associated with benzodiazepine drugs. At least it works for mice. My experience with both Chrysin and Quercetin indicates that such do reduce anxiety significantly when taken at a higher dose.

Estrogen management alternatives include green tea, zinc, soy isoflavones, flax seed oil, cactus flower(opuntia), diindolin, chamomile or apigenin, nettle root, ipriflavone and weight loss.   I suggest nettle root or soy isoflavones as the best and most cost effective alternative.

-Fat loss: The aromatase enzyme, which converts T to E, lives in fat tissue with the highest amount of aromatase found in abdominal fat. Weight loss will thereby reduce the estradiol levels.

-Soy Isoflavones (least side effects) interfere with estrogen receptors in the prostate. Suggested dose is 50 to 100mg per day(1 to 6 pills depending on brand). This is difficult to dose based upon the mg listing on the bottles. So many have deceptive labels which show the mg of isoflavone extract rather then the total isoflavone content. It is suggested that you simply buy one brand and stick with it so as to know how many pills are needed. As always more is not better. Over dosing on isoflavones will cause a sore prostate in some and even urgency.

Very safe with no known side effects.

You may be able to use soy protein isolate which is high in isoflavones depending on the batch. Soy protein concentrate is however devoid of isoflavones. So know the difference.

Isoflavones may cause cold feet and hands when taken alone in high doses which is a sign of over dosing.. DHEA may help treat an over dose.

- Nettle Root (most economical) may also interfere with estrogen receptors and may be anti aromatase. Best when used in combination with another anti estrogen and an anti DHT . It is written up as a third rate prostate remedy when used alone but in my opinion it is as important in treating prostate and hormone issues as is the DHT blocker. Never give up until you try nettle root as it is the most economical and easiest to dose because it takes 1 to 6 grams per day whether used in combination or alone. This is my favorite anti-estrogen herb.

-Muira Pauma: Is touted as a libido enhancing herb but in reality is just another Nettle Root. It seems to be a very powerful anti-estrogen and is dosed at about 1 to 2.5 grams per day. It probably hase some libido boosting properties involving nitrogen uptake but its mode of action is still anti-estrogen.

-Red Clover Blossoms: Contain phytoestrogens (isoflavones)much like soy products. 1400mg per day is about right to replace the soy isoflavones capsules. This will vary greatly with potency of the batch as clover can be up to 10 times stronger than comparable sources. Be careful of long term use as the clover contains a natural blood thinner. Short term use is best. Dosages at up to 5 grams per day as the sole anti estrogen have not been effective. Yet at 1400mg per day it is an excellent compliment to the anti aromatase supplements especially nettle root. I do not suggest its use.

-Flax Seed Oil: Is suggested to reduce the negative effects of estrogen on the prostate and a one to two tablespoon dose per day is sufficient. This is a good supplement to micro manage the anti E doseages as it comes in 8-12 oz. bottles of liquid. The gel caps are not very economical. See:

-Ipriflavone is another type of phyto estrogen this takes the place of real estrogen thereby reducing the overall E level and influence. Considered effective, reasonable priced and safe.

DIM: (MOST POWERFUL) Di-Indolin or Diindolylmethane or Diindolymethane (sic) is probably the most powerful of the anti-aromatase supplements. Actually not anti-aromatase at all but stops estrogen from changing into estradiol. In my experience it is at least 2 to 3 time more poweful than chrysin. Probably due to its absorption rather than its action. Double strength dimm by Enzymatic Therapy and DIM by Natures Way are the only products I tried and were too effective causing causing urgency of urination and a number of side effects. You will need to have your anti-DHT level re-adjusted if using this supplement plus eliminate all phytoestrogens. Once I eliminated phytoestrogens from my diet and started with just a half pill a day I had excellent results. It will improve the T level. The key is to not use too much. Just a few cups of green tea was sufficient to cause an over dose with DIMM.

-Zinc: See below.

PREDICTION: Some day chrysin other anti-aromatase and anti E nutritional supplements and drugs will be as important to men in fighting prostatitis and old age as saw palmetto is today. That is if some day researchers finally educate the medical community that an inappropriate balance of testosterone, estradiol and DHT are causing age related problems in the aging male. Right now all I know is that the stuff really works for me.

TESTOSTERONE BOOSTERS

Men experience a gradual decline in testosterone with age. http://www.lef.org/protocols/prtcl-130.shtml . A number of herbal remedies are available. Each works in a different manner but they do work for most. If you do decide to use a herbal testosterone booster you generally need to use it for 3 weeks and then take a one week break. The recipes above may very will solve most T deficiencies caused by excess SHBG making this secion irrelevant. Men with low total T, and there are a lot of you out there, must supplement. Adequate supplementation will eliminate most negative effects very quickly. When supplementing T it is best to use DHEA and sometimes small amounts of progesterone in combination which enhances the effect of the program.

In theory, a testosterone booster could be used to pump up the prostate with an increased blood flow in the final phase of antibiotic treatment for prostatitis. See your doctor before you do this when on antibiotics. Warning: Excess testosterone is a known cause of prostatitis.

If you are over 40 and have a dihydrotestosterone(DHT) problem a booster may increase the wrong kind of hormone (DHT). Most men use saw palmetto or pygeum in conjunction so as to prevent an increase in DHT.This in turn promotes the production of estrodiol which will cause its own new set of side effects which can be treated with anti-estrogens. A vicious cycle.

Many theories abound! (See: http://www.t-mag.com/articles/171estro.html) Estradiol (the most powerful estrogen) is considered by many as the culprit in men's aging problems. Men convert some T to estradiol by a process call aromatization (the aromatase enzyme). Aromatization increases with age. Many doctors theorize that it's the change in the ratio of T to E in men as they age that causes many problems including prostatitis, BPH, erectile disfunction, feeling chilled, testicular atrophy, enlarged and tender nipples, prostate problems, hair loss, urgency of urination, increased abdominal fat, diabetes, growing womens breasts (bitch tits) and many other problems.

Read "The Testosterone Syndrome" by Eugene Shippen, MD.

See also this excellent article on secondary hypogonadism and andropause: http://www.drlam.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/andropause2002.cfm#Introduction

-Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and Nolvadex (tamoxifen citrate) [Effexor XR, venlafaxine hcl] are prescription drugs that are sold as a fertility drug and anti cancer drug for women. They may be the only known cure for secondary hypogonadism. In men, the application of Clomid or Nolvadex
causes an elevation of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. As
a result, natural testosterone production is also increased. It works to stimulate hypothalmic sensitivy to the negative feedback loop of the pituitary-testes-hypothalmic axis.

Bodybuilders use this after abusing steroids to the point that LH has been stopped. I have read many accounts of body builders who have re-started T production after such a steroid cycle by a 20 day cycle of clomid at 25 to 100 mg per day. Many will preceed this clomid cycle by a week or two of HCG injections to get the testicles going again. (Tribulus may do the same thing.) Nolvadex is dosed at 10 to 20 mg per day for 20 days.

I used clomid for 20 days and successfully increased my T level to the point that I no longer need herbal DHT blockers. Plus it reduced my reliance on anti-estrogens. My T level went from 1.3 to 4.4 after the program. I was tested 10 days after stopping Clomid and feel that I have improved since. Now years later the increase has remained modestly static. The result was strong for about six months and then dropped down just a little too much.

Many feel that Nolvadex is better and has fewer side effects.

EFFEXOR XR is an antidepressent. It is clearly another synthetic estrogen like Clomid and Nolvodex. I used it for 20 days. It had horrible side effects for 7 days. All went away but for the soreness to the prostate indicating that it was lowering my E level. I used 150mg of DHEA per day to minimize the side effects. I am very E sensitive, either high or low, so I used just 37.5mg per day for the first week and 50mg for the second and 75 for the third. I would strongly suggest this drug for stimulating the HPTA but at lower doses than I used. While on the drug I felt that my T level was suppressed. After I went off T went straight up.   Cancer doctors use this to prevent women from going through premature menopause while in chemo therapy. The result was much better than clomid. There is a withdrawl so go off slowly.

-5-HTP is a neurotransmitter precurser that stimulates the serotonin levels thereby stimulating the hypothalamus. This is a simplified version. Don't use this if taking a MAO inhibitor. Use for short periods only. Read detailed information about this before starting a routine as it can be dangerous. It will potentiate st johns wort. It can cause headaches and stomach irritation. It also suppresses the appetite and elevates the mood. 50 to 100 mg per day with half in morning and half in evening. I have experimented wit this for just a few days and it did elevate the T levels and mood but gave me headaches. Disolve some between the cheek and gum before swallowing.

-Chaste Tree Berry (vitex agnus) was once thought to be for women only. It is a luteinizing hormone stimulator. Thus, it increases T levels in men. In women it stimulates something different because women have two X chromosones and ovaries instead of testicles. So don't worry about using this herb and growing boobs or a vagina. Just not gonna happen. I personally feel that this does not work. I tried it for weeks to no avail.    It doesn't seem to bother the stomach as much as tribulus nor does it stimulate the appetite like tribulus. Dose at about 2 to 6 grams per day. Note that it is a pituitary stimulator and that means that it may or probably will stimulate increased production of prolactin which means that you will need saw palmetto to block DHT conversion. I never made it work and don't recommend it.

-DHEA(crucial hormone) produced by our adrenal glands, is the most common hormone in our bodies. It is present in larger amounts in healthy individuals yet by age 60 it is hardly detectable. DHEA is a precursor for the manufacture or synthesis of as many as 18 other hormones in the body, such as estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, cortisone. It has been shown to increase the level of estrogen in women and testosterone in men to the youthful levels, with a positive effect on libido.

Dose at about 12mg to 125mg per day and try to split the dose into 3 parts. It is imperative that you use an anti-estrogen with DHEA as it converts to E quite readily especially for those with a large waiste line. It is a very cost effective means of boosting T but must be monitored for its tendency to convert to DHT and E in older men with low T. Some suggest holding the tablet under the tounge for a 10 minute period so as to get absorption direct into the blood before swallowing, however placing a tablet between the upper lip and gum for a half hour but no more than an hour will be more effective at getting the DHEA into the blood stream.

Individuals with liver desease or prostate cancer should be careful and consult with their doctor.. This product is made in a cream and tablets that disolve in the mouth and such are better methods of administration especially for those with liver disease.

Unlike many hormones DHEA is not controlled by a negative feedback loop so you can take it without worrying that you will forever stop your body's own production of the hormone. If you are older you don't have any of it anyway. I personally have used about 50-100 mg per day of DHEA without any other herb except anti estrogens for my continuing hormone issues. i don't advocate this long term. It just worked for me.

-Avena sativa (wild oats leaf) is an anti anxiety herb and thought to also free up bound T by blocking SHBG thereby increasing free T. It is one of the fastest working extracts I have tried. Avena sativa has been shown to stimulate the release of luteinizing hormone. This is significant since LH is involved in the process of effectuating the secretion of certain sexual hormones such as in testosterone. May increase testicular size and be a treatment for testicular atrophy. Based on experience this stuff really works and can warm up the feet in a matter of an hour or so. Its effect may rely more on anti estrogen activity and a direct impact on SHBG. An excellent remedy for a man with high total testosterone but low free testosterone. Test a drop on the skin to check fo allergic reactions. I have had one person with a sever allergic reaction to this suplement.

-Maca Root: This Peruvian herb (vegetable) is said to increase the testosterone level by stimulating production via the pituitary gland but more modern thinking is that it blocks SHBG thereby increasing free T and increases dopamine due to its high concentration of L-dopa. It seems to lower the DHT level and is a substitute for saw palmetto.   It is a prolactin inhibitor.

One study shows that no increase in total T resulted form use of maca but that most improved sexual function anyway. It is considered weak in comparison to tribulus but may work better if used in combination with Horny Goat Weed. It is not an artificial testosterone. DHEA at 50 mg per day is almost always indicated when using maca at least for the first week. Dose at about 3 to 6 grams per day. Wonderful and safe.

-Tribulus Terrestris: (Puncture vine, in my opinion it is the fountain of youth. See also chaste berry.) This potent herb has been studied and observed to enhance LH (luteinizing hormone) production and raise testosterone levels. (It also seems to increase prolactin production which requires saw palmetto or some other anti-DHT formula.) I experimented with Twin Labs Tribulus Fuel with DHEA at three pills per day and later with Natrol brand at four and six pills per day. It caused cold hands and feet and urgency of urination for the first few days and then leveled off. You may need to adjust your anti-estrogen and as time goes on adjust your anti-DHT as the T levels rise. For me I had to cut back on the anti-estrogen and increase the anti-DHT but others have the opposite experience. It did cause mild aching in the testicles initially which went away when I used the supplement with food. Ergo' don't use Tribulus on an empty stomach as it absorbes too fast and is a known stomach irritant.
It is also established that tribulus stimulates the appetite and may cause drousiness. Experiments with rats shows a 50% increase in caloric intake when on tribulus. It is generally best to use Tribulus with DHEA at least for the first week. As with most herbs, more is not better.

It increases testicular size and is a treatment for testicular atrophy.

I don't like it because of the sedating effect and appetite stimulation.

-Androstenedione: Banned? This is the hormone that is a direct precursor and metabolite of the hormone testosterone. Androstenedione and testosterone are believed to convert back and forth to each other by action of the enzyme 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Since Androstenedione is synthesized into testosterone, it's supplementation likely increases testosterone production and the androgenic properties associated with testosterone.

-Yohimbe Bark: Do not use this product if you are at risk for high blood pressure, heart, kidney, thyroid or psychiatric disease, anxiety, depression, seizure disorder, or stroke. Consult your health care professional before use if you are taking antidepressants, MAO inhibitor or any other prescription drug. It is not recommended to take this product while taking ephedrine and/or caffeine. Not for use in children or geriatric patients.

It is believed to stimulate the central nervous system, and act as a mild hallucinogen and perhaps as a vasodilator.    A true mystery herb if you ask me. I have tried it and it works but I won't use it very often. It causes insomnia.

Considered by some to be one of the few real "aphrodisiacs",   Yohimbe is thought to stimulate an erection or improve erectile function in men suffering erectile symptoms, and has been used to treat male impotence in Africa, where the Yohimbe tree grows.

-Horny goat weed: (epimedium ) traditionally used as an herbal aphrodisiac because it increases blood flow to the genital area, is called Yin-Yang in China, where it originates, because it increases sexual pleasure for the female (yin) as well as the male (yang). Horny Goat Weed lowers blood pressure by dilating capillaries and blood vessels while slowing the adrenal production that can hinder blood flow to the sex organs.) Works in a variety of ways. Most believe it impacts the adrenal glands and central nervous system. Seems to enlarge the testicles so may be an LH stimulator. The active ingredient is thought to be icariin.Reports also indicate that Epimedium helps to increase sperm production and stimulate growth of the testes and levator rector muscle of the penis. Its effects on the endocrine system help explain how this works. The herb was found to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the hypothalamus, leading to higher levels of the hormones noradrenaline anddopamine. These hormones are thought to be important for the normal functioning of the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus regulates important bodyfunctions such as sex drive, appetite, thirst, and sleep.It also regulates the nearby pituitary gland, which controls the release of reproductive organ growth inducing gonadotropins. It is also a powerful anti-estrogen. You must reduce your anti-estrogen intake if using goat weed. Dose in small increments such as 500mg as it may cause urgency. Very potent and really works. May be a herbal treatment for hypogonadism if used in combination with oats extract (750-1000mg) and DHEA (50-100mg) for a few days to a week. Once going off it takes about 5 days for the after effects to kick in to help hypogonadism.

-Acidophilus: is a probiotic which replaces beneficial bacteria in the colon. So why is it a T booster? Most men with any prostate symptoms have been on a prolonged course of antibiotics which will kill all the beneficial bacterial in the colon allowing fungus and yeast to proliferate uncontrolled. This in turn creats a colony of yeast and fungus which produce toxins that inhibit the endocrine system. It can cause brain fog and bloating especially when eating sugar. Treatment with acidophilus supplements is crucial as this beneficial bacteria will eat yeast and restore the colon flora to normal in many cases. It is best used in conjunction with other yeast fighting herbs. Coconut oil at one teaspoon per meal with Biotin for at least one month are appropriate and suport the success of acidophilus. It is important to lower the sugar and white flour in the diet. Research this one carefully as yeast is a major cause of prostatitis in men. Most infections take at least 3 months and usually 12 months to cure even if you use presctiption drugs. Programs are never successful unless you change the diet drastically. Factors to consider when fighting a Yeast infection in the digestive tract:

1. Purge the system before starting anti fungal therapy to reduce the die off reaction. Use one quart of water and 2 to 3 teaspoons of salt. Drink on an empty stomach it will empty the digestive tract in a matter of a few hours and help loosen the yeast (candida) plaque. Many cannot tolerate drinking salt water. In that case use high volume enemas with the 1.5 liter disposable buckets. See: http://store.fwlinmed.com/index.html Heat the sterile water to 104 degrees and do a salt water enema with the first try. Then about 45 minutes later after the colon is empty do a second enema with sterile castile soap water heated to 104 degrees with a higher volume up to 4 liters. This treatment in the morning for 20 to 30 days while on 200mg diflucan will cure most candida infestations. Fore best price diflucan see:http://ultramonlinecom.mavweb.net/ultramonline.html

2. Clean the system with a mix of one rounded teaspoon of psyllium powder and one large rounded teaspoon of bentonite powder, 500 mg of aciddohilus powder with 8 ounces of water. Shake in a jar with a lid and drink.   Drink this on an empty stomach at least 4 or 5 times a day. You can do this for as long as 30 days. it will help remove yeast plaque in your digestive tract. For maintainace you can drink this every morning with or without the bentonite.

3. Stop consumption of all sugar and foods with sugar added along with white flour and products containing yeast for at least 90 days.

4. Eat fruits in small portions and only on an empty stomach to avoid the sugar ending up in the colon. Allowable fruits include green apples, strawberry , blueberry, musk, and honey dew melon.

5. Eat small meals so that the food is digested and does not end up in the colon. Splitting meals into 6 meals a day may be best.

6. Limit carbohydrate intake to 60 grams per day for at least 90 days. Eat a diet primarily of green vegetables and meat. Avoid fatty meats. Eat about 20 percent almonds, pecans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and fruits listed above.

7. Use prescription anti fungal drugs but not at the same time as numbers one and 2 two above. Consider using Nystatin enteric(4 to 8 million units per day) and Diflucan(50 to 200 mg per day) in combination for up to 90 days. It many work best to increase your dose every 2 weeks to get around the resistant strains. Consider drugs such as sporonox and lamisil as alternatives. You may want to use both nystatin powder and an enteric coated tablet so that the nystatin makes it to the colon. Nystatin breaks down fast under heat and doesn't make it all the way to the colon in powder form. Consider fungizone as a third antifungal for the 90 day course.

8. Understand that for a cure you must boost the immune system through clean living, nutritional supplements and better diet. Exercise regularly and never consume alcohol. Use acidophilus supplements with every meal. You will need strong supplements up to 1 gram per meal. Supplement with herbals such as stomach enzymes and acid boosters.

9. Use acid pills with enzymes to increase the acidity of the digestive tract. Yeast will not live in a higher acid environment. Many believe that yeast takes hold in older indiviuals because of the lower stomach acid. I have personally found that increasing the acid works best of all home remedies followed second by number 2 above.

10.   Potassium Iodide also known as Lugol's solution is a yeast killer. If you have thrush in the mouth you can use 1 to 4 drops in a teasopoonful of water to swish and swallow. Usually it takes four treatments a day for up to 30 days to cure. Test yourself for Iodine allergy.   Scrape the tounge with a spoon to pull off the yeast and allow the Iodine to absorb more readily.   Many theories abound concerning Lugol's as a treatment but no solid data exists to support such.

11. Undecenoic acid from the castor bean is a yeast killer. Brand name SF-722. Usually it takes about 100 to 300 mg for 4 times a day for 60 to 90 days. It is best to use this as a rotated supplement going for 7 days on and 7 days off with another yeast killer.

Prescription Testosterone Supplementation- Probably the easiest and most effective way to increase free T is to use a prescription supplement. The following rules may be helpful.

a. Use a bio-identical T cream which will not need to be excreted through the liver. This will usually need to be compounded but will be about 1/3 to 1/2 the cost of the more popular patches.

b. Consider usisng DHEA cream instead of T as it will lessen side effects. The cost is minimal and it is far more effective than pills. Get tested for DHEA and then while on to see what you really need.

c. Ask for a 2ml dose per day so that it can be split easily into two or three doses over the day. Many doctors think that a single dose in the morining is ok but this usually promotes an unacceptable rush in the morning and too little in the afternoon and evening. As you determine the correct dose then you can order smaller and smaller carrier doses. Many don't like the 2ml of cream as it is messy. After you get yourself regulated you can have the correct mg dose put into 1 ml or even less.

d. Consider a prescription anti-estrogen supplement such as arimidix which has a long active life in the body. This may be easier to monitor and only acts against estradiol instead of increasing excretion of all estrogen which is what isoflavones do. Too little estrogen is bad so don't over do the anti-estrogen. Yet you will always need some anti-estrogen when supplementing.

e. Anger is touted as the most noticeable side effect of too much T. This is fickle as when you first start it may take days for the body to adjust to an adequate level of T. Your body wants to convert T to DHT when T starved so a lot of this T will first get converted to DHT making you angry. Give it time and treat the anger issue with saw palmetto initially. Eventually you should be able to drop the saw palmetto as the body adjusts. If the anger lasts more than a few days you are probably using too much. Headaches and swollen feet are sighs of T overdose.

f. Insurance may not pay for a compunded T cream so ask in advance. Even if insurance doesn't pay it may be more cost effective as compared to using bottled herbs. This cream is cheap and many online pharmacies are even cheaper.

-Vitamin A: Vitamin A is necessary for the utilization of protein and the production of testosterone and other growth factors. In fact, one human study found the administration of vitamin A and iron to have results equivalent to the administration of testosterone itself. I tried a vitamin A 25,000 unit supplement for two weeks while taking 300mg of St John's Wort. It significantly increased testosterone production and libido. Unfortunately it caused chapped lips, bad temper and a severe sinus congestion. I suggest lower doses. I did the experiment two times and had the same results. High protein diets tend to leach out vitamin A. People with thyroid disease need vitamin a as beta carotene is often not converted well to vitamin A. Vitamin A may also help control estrogen in men. It is not a cure all. Just another part of a well rounded program. see: http://www.westonaprice.org/men/vitaminabodybuilding.html

OTHER VITAMINS MINERALS AND STUFF

-USP GRADE Progestrone Cream, available over the counter, can enhance libido lost in using saw palmetto. I do not suggest progesterone having used it for a month. USP Progesterone is not just a female hormone but is necessary for testosterone production in the male. As such, use of natural USP progesterone cream can enhance regular testosterone production while blocking dihydrotestosterone and estradiol . The USP progesterone sold for women is usually stronger than that sold for men. So go to the woman's section first when shopping. Cream containing saw palmetto and pygeum is an advertising hoax as these herbs cannot be absorbed through the skin. USP progesterone is expensive and hard to dose. I find it most useful when combined in a cream with DHEA through a prescription called van pen. This lets you use a syringe to meter out the daily dose. When used alone it gives about 30% relief of my prostate symptoms but when combined with DHEA it improves health significantly. It is usually best to experiment with DHEA and progesterone cream in seperate syringes so as to find the right daily dose and than save money on the next prescripton and have it all in the same syringe. Dose in very small amounts. It doesn't take much. I droppped its use as many other supplements are easier to use and more effective.

-Zinc: Many men use zinc supplements as a T booster at 45 mg per day (some suggest 90 mg per day but such could be toxic) and may be synergistic with vitamin B-6 at 50 mg per day. It also has success for treating premature ejaculation. The problems with zinc are that many.

SPLENDA: Years after the fact, 2008 I discovered that Splenda, the artificial sweetener aggravates my prostate. I have seen a few posts confirming my suspicions. But, this is not a condemnation of Splenda just an observation that many things in the diet can aggravate the prostate. Splenda made the prostate sore and caused me to cease certain herbs and medicaitons. Too early to tell if there is permanent damage, or if I can tell if this was caused or aggrivated by Splenda. .