Several natural compounds and strategies can **suppress androgen production or block androgen receptor (AR) signaling**, which is highly relevant in prostate cancer — especially with a **Gleason 9** where **androgen-independent clones** might emerge over time.
Here’s a breakdown of **natural approaches to androgen suppression**, grouped by mechanism:
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**1. 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors**
(Block conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, DHT)
**Saw Palmetto**
– Already in your protocol — good start
– Blocks type I and II 5-alpha reductase
– Typical dose: 320–640 mg/day (standardized to fatty acids)
**Pygeum africanum**
– Also inhibits 5-alpha reductase
– May reduce prostate inflammation
– Often paired with Saw Palmetto
**Nettle Root (Urtica dioica)**
– Inhibits SHBG binding and 5-alpha reductase
– May block DHT from binding to receptors
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**2. Androgen Receptor (AR) Antagonism**
**Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)**
– Suppresses AR expression and nuclear translocation
– Inhibits PSA transcription even in low-androgen settings
– Great addition in holistic anti-AR protocols
**Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)**
– Lowers testosterone production (by inhibiting 17β-HSD)
– Long-term use may deplete potassium or raise BP — monitor or pulse
**Curcumin**
– Downregulates AR gene expression
– Already in your protocol, consider high-bioavailability forms
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**3. HPA Axis Modulation & Hormonal Terrain Balancing**
**DIM (Diindolylmethane)**
– Helps metabolize estrogen and modulate androgen levels
– Supports detox of harmful estrogen metabolites
– Typical dose: 100–200 mg/day
**Calcium-D-Glucarate**
– Supports liver clearance of steroid hormones
– Prevents reabsorption of deconjugated androgens
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**4. Estrogenic Plant Compounds (Mild Competitive Binding)**
**Flaxseed or Lignans**
– Enterolactone lignans may competitively inhibit DHT binding
– Mildly estrogenic but often net anti-androgenic in prostate cancer
**Soy Isoflavones (Genistein, Daidzein)**
– Weak estrogenic effects may inhibit AR activity
– Also inhibit tyrosine kinases and angiogenesis
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**5. Metabolic & Lifestyle Interventions**
– **Ketogenic diet** (you’re already doing it): reduces insulin and IGF-1 — key androgen drivers
– **Intermittent fasting**: reduces systemic androgen and mTOR signaling
– **Berberine**: lowers insulin and IGF-1, indirectly reduces androgen activity
– **Exercise** (especially cardio): supports SHBG elevation, reducing free testosterone
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**Practical Protocol Suggestions**
To complement your current plan:
– **Add or pulse**: Pygeum, Nettle Root, Reishi, or DIM
– **Cycle licorice**: 5 days on, 2 days off (only if BP and potassium levels are stable)
– **Combine AR blockers with fasting or ketogenic phases** for stronger effect
– **Rotate estrogenic botanicals** (e.g., flax, soy isoflavones) if not contraindicated