Understanding Prostatitis: Separating Facts from Misconceptions
Mistake #1: Prostatitis is a Sexually Transmitted DiseaseA common misconception about prostatitis is that it's a sexually transmitted infection. Since the condition affects the male reproductive system, some assume it's contagious through sexual contact. The truth is, most chronic prostatitis cases are non-bacterial, meaning no pathogens can be detected. That makes it non-contagious. Plus, the female reproductive system has a natural self-cleaning and disease-resistant function. So, in most cases, men with chronic prostatitis can maintain a healthy sex life without concern.
Mistake #2: Antibiotics Are Always Necessary
Many men turn to antibiotics at the first sign of prostatitis, thinking that only inflammation-fighting drugs can fix the problem. However, Dr. Yang explains that the vast majority of prostatitis cases are non-bacterial. Only a small percentage are due to pathogens. And since you can’t eliminate what isn’t there, antibiotics often have little effect in these cases. For symptoms like frequent urination, pelvic discomfort, or perineal pain, alternatives like Qianlie Tongyu capsules (5 capsules, 3 times daily) or Jiedu Huoxue suppositories (1 piece, 2 times a day rectally) are commonly used in traditional remedies. Mistake #3: Prostatitis Is Untreatable
Because chronic prostatitis tends to recur and linger, many patients believe it’s incurable. Dr. Yang emphasizes that it can, in fact, be treated. But consistency is key. Treatment usually spans one to three months, followed by a stabilization phase after symptoms ease. Lifestyle changes also matter: keep your lower back and pelvis warm, avoid long periods of sitting or cycling, reduce spicy foods like hot pot or chili fish, and say no to alcohol.
Simple But Effective: White Ginkgo Tea to Soothe the Prostate
Dr. Yang recommends a straightforward homemade ginkgo tea as a natural support for men dealing with chronic prostatitis. Here's how to prepare it:How to Brew It and What to Watch For
Take 5 ginkgo nuts — available at herbal stores — and crack them open. Steep them in 250ml of boiling water and drink it like tea, once a day. This remedy can help alleviate symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, post-urination dribbling, and nighttime emissions. Important reminder: Remove the inner germ or embryo of the ginkgo nut — this part can be toxic if consumed. Also, ginkgo should never be taken in large amounts or over long periods. Stick to the dosage and consult your healthcare provider if in doubt.Why It Works, Backed by Research
Traditional Chinese Medicine believes in improving circulation and clearing internal blockages to treat prostatitis. Ginkgo has known benefits for circulation and inflammation. According to a study published in *The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine*, many urinary disorders are linked to “qi” stagnation in the lower jiao (abdomen). Modern research supports this too, noting ginkgo biloba’s effects on chronic inflammatory conditions (PMID: [33509218](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33509218/)). Another study found ginkgo extract beneficial in relieving chronic pelvic pain syndrome (PMID: [26595111](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26595111/)).Start Small, Stay Consistent
Incorporating white ginkgo tea into your daily wellness routine is simple and effective. Combine it with lifestyle improvements, and you could see real progress without harsh medications or invasive treatments.References
- [Ginkgo biloba reduces inflammation and improves circulation — beneficial in prostatitis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33509218/) (PMID: 33509218)
- [Clinical benefits of Ginkgo extract in pelvic pain syndrome](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26595111/) (PMID: 26595111)
- [Urinary issues linked to energy blockage in TCM classics](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7997474/) (PMID: 7997474)
