Prostatic hyperplasia, or benign prostatic hypertrophy, is an enlargement of the prostate, a walnut-sized gland that forms part of the male reproductive system. When a man urinates, the bladder squeezes urine out a narrow canal or tube, called the urethra. The prostate surrounds the urethra right at the bladder exit. The prostate plays a role in ejaculation, depositing the ejaculate fluid into the urethra, the channel running through the center of the prostate gland. The prostate gland commonly gets larger as a man ages (this is called BPH or benign prostatic hypertrophy). As it does, it may squeeze or pinch the urethra channel, causing difficulty with urination such as a slow stream, the need to strain, increased frequency, urgency to urinate, and intermittent flow or dribbling.
Five therapeutic methods for prostatic hyperplasia in TCM
Syndrome of Downward Transmission of Dampness and Heat
Therapeutic Methods: Clear away heat, remove dampness and promote qi transformation of the bladder.
Syndrome of of Lung-Qi Failing to Disperse
Therapeutic Methods: Promote dispersing and descending ability of lung qi, and dredge water passage.
Syndrome of Yin Deficiency and Fire Hyperactivity
Therapeutic Methods: Nourish yin, reduce fire, get rid of retention and promote urination.
Syndrome of Deficiency of Kidney Yang
Therapeutic Methods: Warm and replenish kidney yang, transform qi and circulate water.
Syndrome of Stasis and Obstruction in Bladder
Therapeutic Method: Dissolve stasis, disperse accumulation, get rid of retention and promote urination.