UsToo PC-SPES surveys: review of studies and update of previous survey results.

In 1997, we resolved to survey UsToo members and other men known at that time to be taking PC-SPES, a Chinese herb combination that contains eight herbs: chrysanthemum, dyers woad, licorice, reishi, san-qi ginseng, rabdosia, saw palmetto, and baikal skullcap. The survey showed positive results, with respondents experiencing a decline in serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), most to the undetectable range. Of these patients, 88% maintained a low PSA concentration, whereas 12% had a rise from nadir. These results made it obvious that we should obtain follow-up reports from the respondents. We therefore conducted a second survey, this time finding 93% of the respondents with positive results and only 7% reporting a rise in PSA after the initial lowering with PC-SPES. Even though there are some side effects, a great majority of men are realizing good PSA control while taking the capsules, and some of the respondents are now into their fourth year of PC-SPES use. Currently, several institutions are investigating the biology of this Chinese herb combination. Although there is some estrogenic effect, there are other potential mechanisms of action to enable this product to control PSA, not only in newly diagnosed cancer, but also in longer-term use.