A man’s prostate gland continues growing throughout his life. That’s why older men are more likely to have issues with an enlarged prostate.

This condition is a benign enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which isn’t the same thing as having prostate cancer. These are two distinct health conditions with differing treatments. Benign means noncancerous. However, even without cancer, an enlarged prostate can cause discomfort and complications.

Benign enlarged prostate is a common problem for men over age 50. Men with this condition experience bladder troubles that include: frequent urination, involuntary loss of urine, a weak stream of urine, and pain during urination or after ejaculation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that help lower inflammation. Common types include:

These medications can help alleviate arthritis symptoms and reduce the risk of heart disease. 2025 research suggests that NSAIDs such as aspirin may have beneficial effects on those who have had prostate surgery, known as robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy, improving the amount of time a patient lives without prostate cancer.

This research, however, is in the context of prostate surgery and may not apply to a benign enlarged prostate. Since the evidence is conflicting, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

However, there is inconclusive research on whether aspirin can help with an enlarged prostate, and there is not yet enough evidence to recommend that you start taking them regularly, specifically to treat the condition.

Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement that’s made from the fruit extracts of the saw palmetto plant. It’s one of the more popular herbal remedies used to treat urinary problems, including an enlarged prostate. You can find it in pill form or as a liquid extract.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a few studies have shown it to be effective.

As a result, saw palmetto is one of the most commonly recommended natural remedies. However, further research is still necessary for it to be officially accepted as a treatment in the medical community.

Pygeum is a supplement made from the bark of the African plum tree. The extract has been used for many years to treat an enlarged prostate.

It functions as an anti-inflammatory agent and may also have a beneficial effect on the bladder. A 2024 study found that, when combined with other herbs, pygeum might help reduce issues of frequent urination in people with an enlarged prostate. More clinical trials are necessary in the United States to determine its effectiveness.

Extracts of South African star grass are for medical purposes because they contain beta-sitosterols. Plant sterols like these are thought to reduce inflammation and improve urine flow in men with an enlarged prostate.

You can also find beta-sitosterol in some yogurts and margarines.

Stinging nettle is a plant with a long medicinal history in Europe. Its leaves have fine hairs that cause sharp pain when they touch human skin — that’s how it got the name stinging nettle. The leaves and roots are also thought to have medicinal benefits.

In Europe, the root can help treat an enlarged prostate. A 2023 article states that it may help increase the flow of urine in men with an enlarged prostate. However, further research is necessary.

Oil extracted from pumpkin seeds can be in capsule form. One 2024 study found that pumpkin seeds can aid male fertility and prevent prostate-related issues such as an enlarged prostate, as well as improve symptoms such as urinary dysfunction.

A variety of over the counter medications and supplements can help with an enlarged prostate, including:

  • NSAIDs
  • Pygeum
  • Saw palmetto

However, a person should always talk with a doctor before trying supplements.

Prescription medications that shrink the prostate are known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, including:

 

No, an enlarged prostate cannot reduce back to its normal size without treatment, but symptoms can be managed.

It’s important to note that herbal supplements aren’t prescribed by doctors to treat an enlarged prostate. They also aren’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration. None of the above medications should be a substitute for medical treatment from a doctor.

If you aren’t getting relief from symptoms that are interfering with your daily life, it might be time to talk with your doctor about prescription medications. There are two types of drugs that have had success in treating a benign enlarged prostate. Your doctor will need to conduct an examination to determine the best course of action for you.