Study
Combination Therapy Improves Prostate Health and Quality of Life in Men Over 40
Combining saw palmetto, bromelain, and nettle with antibiotics significantly improved urinary symptoms and erectile function in men aged 40-65.
Summary
In plain language
This study looked at how different treatments can help men aged 40 to 65 who have prostate inflammation, a common issue causing discomfort and urinary problems. Researchers found that a combination of herbal supplements (saw palmetto, bromelain, and nettle) alongside antibiotics improved urinary flow and sexual function more than using saw palmetto alone. Men in the study experienced a 26% to 28% increase in urinary flow and a 10% improvement in sexual health. These findings suggest that adding certain herbal supplements to traditional treatments might enhance the quality of life for those dealing with prostate issues. Seniors should discuss these options with their healthcare providers to see if it could benefit them.
Details
Use the full description to understand the study design, methods, and the limits of the findings.
The study involved 100 men aged 40 to 65 with prostate inflammation. They were divided into groups receiving either saw palmetto alone or combined with bromelain and nettle, plus antibiotics. Results showed significant improvements in urinary flow and erectile function for those receiving the combination therapy.
Participants using the combination therapy experienced a 26% to 28% increase in urinary flow and a 10% improvement in sexual health scores.
The study suggests that bromelain and nettle enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of saw palmetto.
Limitations include a relatively small sample size and focus on short-term effects.
These findings offer promising options for improving prostate health, but seniors should consult their doctors to determine the best approach for their individual needs.
Full Study
Open the original publication for the complete methods, outcomes, and source material.
Combination Therapy Improves Prostate Health and Quality of Life in Men Over 40
Published March 2015 · DOI 10.4081/aiua.2015.1.25
Opens at the publisher · external site · may require institutional access
Research Quality Score
Scored October 22, 2026 using rubric mq-1.8_2026-07-06.
Assessment
The study is observational with no randomization or blinding, limiting bias control. Statistical methods are basic, lacking power analysis. Transparency is low due to missing pre-registration and data sharing. No conflicts of interest were disclosed, impacting the conflicts score. The study is relevant to the target population but published in a lower-tier journal.
Category Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Study design | 3.3/10 | |
| Bias control | 0.0/10 | |
| Statistical methods | 5.0/10 | |
| Reporting completeness | 0.0/10 | |
| Conflicts & funding | 0.0/10 | |
| Replication | 0.0/10 | |
| Relevance to chosen population | 10.0/10 | |
| Journal Reliability | 2.5/10 |
Additional Notes
The study evaluates the effectiveness of combination therapy with Serenoa repens, Bromeline, and Nettle (Prostamev Plus®) compared to Serenoa repens alone in improving urinary symptoms and erectile function in men aged 40-65 with prostatitis.
Assessed on the study's full text across 8 quality dimensions; conflict-of-interest disclosures were checked.
Conditions This Research Covers
These condition pages help connect the paper back to the real-world health concerns it addresses.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition that affects men as they age. It involves an enlargement of the prostate gland, which can lead to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, and a weak urine stream.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It is common among older men and can be influenced by both physical and emotional factors.
Treatments Evaluated in This Research
Review the interventions studied here and compare them against the broader treatment library.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine uses plants and natural extracts to promote healing and overall wellness. For seniors, herbal remedies can support digestion, reduce inflammation, ease stress, and complement conventional treatments safely when used responsibly.
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
Saw Palmetto supports prostate health and urinary comfort by helping balance hormone activity.
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