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5-AR • BPH • CPPS • Detrusor • DHT • Dysuria • IPSS • Lycopene • Nocturia • Phytosterols • PSA • Pubococcygeus • Pygeum • Saw Palmetto • Zinc
5-Alpha Reductase (5-AR)
An intracellular microsomal enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into its more biologically potent androgenic metabolite, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), particularly within the male prostate stroma and hair follicles.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
A non-malignant, progressive enlargement of the transitional zone of the prostate gland resulting from cellular proliferation. Extremely common in British men over 50, frequently causing obstructive urinary symptoms.
Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS)
The most common form of prostatitis (accounting for >90% of cases), characterized by recurring pelvic discomfort, perineal aching, and urinary symptoms without verifiable bacterial infection.
Detrusor Muscle
The smooth muscle layer of the bladder wall. When urinating, the detrusor contracts while the urethral sphincter relaxes to expel urine smoothly.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
A potent androgen synthesized locally within prostate tissue. Excessive accumulation of DHT stimulates prostatic cell division and tissue expansion.
Dysuria
Discomfort, burning, or painful sensations experienced during micturition (urination), often indicative of lower urinary tract irritation or inflammation.
International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS)
A standardized 8-question clinical assessment tool utilized globally by urologists to quantify the severity of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) and their impact on personal quality of life.
Lycopene
A natural lipid-soluble carotenoid pigment with potent antioxidant properties found in tomatoes. Lycopene specifically accumulates in human prostatic epithelial cells.
Nocturia
The clinical condition characterized by awakening one or more times during nocturnal sleep hours with the urge to void urine.
Phytosterols
Plant-derived sterols and stanols chemically related to cholesterol (e.g. beta-sitosterol, campesterol). Studied for their ability to modulate local 5-AR enzyme activity and soothe bladder neck tissue.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)
A glycoprotein enzyme synthesized by prostate epithelial cells to liquefy semen. Elevated blood levels can reflect benign enlargement, prostatitis, or other prostatic pathology.
Pubococcygeus (PC) Muscle
The primary muscle of the male pelvic floor hammock, extending from the pubic bone to the coccyx. Essential for voluntary urinary continence and post-void control.
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
A small palm native to the southeastern US. Standardized liposterolic extracts of its berries are widely used throughout European herbal medicine for supporting normal male urinary flow dynamics.