Dosage
Traditional use is as a tea (1 cup twice daily) or extract at 250 mg to 500 mg per day. There is no firmly established dose. Ask your healthcare provider before regular use, especially for prostate symptoms.
Ingredient guide
Willowherb (Epilobium): BPH Symptoms and Evidence
Willowherb (Epilobium species) is a traditional herb used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The European Medicines Agency supports its use for lower urinary tract symptoms in BPH based on traditional use. Quality human trial evidence is limited.
Limited evidenceBenefits
- EMA-recognised traditional use for BPH lower urinary tract symptoms.
- Contains oenothein B, with antibacterial activity against prostatic pathogens.
- Laboratory work supports anti-cancer activity in prostate cancer cells.
Evidence summary
What willowherb is
Willowherb refers to several species in the Epilobium and Chamerion genera, including fireweed. The tall pink-flowered plants grow across northern Europe and North America. Traditional infusions of the leaves have been used for lower urinary tract symptoms in BPH.
What the human research shows
In 2016, the European Medicines Agency released a document concluding that willowherb use by patients with BPH is for relieving lower urinary tract symptoms, based on at least 30 years of safe traditional use. Laboratory work supports anti-cancer and antimicrobial activity. While extracts are used widely, the lack of high-quality clinical studies limits firm conclusions. We grade the human evidence as limited.
Dosage & safety
Side effects
- Generally well tolerated.
- Most common are mild stomach upset.
Interactions
- No well-documented serious drug interactions.
Warnings
- Speak with a doctor before willowherb use for prostate symptoms, since proper evaluation rules out more serious causes.
- Tell your urologist you take it before any prostate procedure.
Citations
- Therapeutic potential of polyphenols from Epilobium angustifolium (fireweed) pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Phytochemistry, pharmacology and traditional uses of Epilobium species pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Efficacy of willow herb extracts against prostatic pathogens ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Frequently asked questions
Does willowherb help BPH symptoms?
The EMA recognises traditional use for BPH urinary symptoms. Modern controlled trial data is limited.
Is willowherb safe?
Generally well tolerated based on traditional use. Always involve a doctor for prostate symptoms.