Extracts of the epilobium plant are increasingly being used for the treatment of epilobium problems. prostate, such as the benign prostatic hyperplasia, but also for other types of disorders.

WHAT IS EPILOBIUM

Fireweed is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family of Oenotheraceae, also known as forest carnation, St. Anne's flower or fire grass.

It is a spontaneous plant that grows in different regions of the world, especially in temperate and cold areas. It is found in Europe, Asia, North America, New Zealand and Australia.

In Italy it grows in all regions, especially at high altitudes, generally within 2,000 meters above sea level. It has flowers of various colors, ranging from pink, yellow to white and can be found along mountain paths, on the edges of streams and in clearings.

There are different varieties, but when we talk about Epilobium in herbal medicine we are generally referring to Epilobium angustifolium (the most widely used) or Epilobium parviflorum.

WHAT THE EPILOBIUM CONTAINS

The epilobium extract contains various active ingredients which determine its beneficial properties for health. Among these, there are:

Flavonoids, such as quercetol and myricetol, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective effects
Tannins, with astringent, antibacterial and antidiarrheal action
Phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol and campesterol, which have cholesterol-lowering and antiandrogenic effects.
Oenotheine B, a polyphenolic compound that has the ability to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, responsible for the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, a hormone involved in benign prostatic hyperplasia. This compound has also shown significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, especially relevant in cases of chronic or recurrent prostatitis.source).

EPILOBIUM AND PROSTATE

Epilobium has several beneficial properties for health, especially for the prostate. In fact, it is able to reduce the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, reducing some symptoms such as urination problems.

It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, finding application in cases of prostatitis. Fireweed extracts can inhibit the release of prostaglandins, reducing the inflammatory state.

A randomized clinical trial double-blind study was conducted in Italy to evaluate the effects of epilobium extract in improving the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia on 128 men affected by this pathology.

In men who received the supplement based on epilobium extract, a significant decrease in post-micturition residue (bladder emptying) and consequently in nocturia was observed, improving the quality of life.

No subject reported adverse effects related to the oral intake of supplements containing epilobium extracts and no liver or kidney toxicity was observed.

Other controlled and registered studies have also highlighted benefits on urinary symptoms, as well as confirming that willowherb, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, can represent a useful natural support in the management of BPH.

In conclusion, supplements containing epilobium extracts appear to be a good support for the treatment of the symptoms of benign hyperplasia.

For further information:
Herbal medicine preparation for the management of symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy