Lycopene, a carotenoid found predominantly in tomatoes and other red fruits, has been investigated for its potential benefits in prostate health, including the management of prostatitis. The scientific rationale behind lycopene's use is primarily based on its antioxidative properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation—factors implicated in the pathogenesis of prostatitis.

Several small-scale clinical studies and animal experiments have explored lycopene supplementation for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Urology (2008) found that lycopene supplementation improved symptoms in patients with CP/CPPS compared to placebo. Other studies have shown that lycopene can reduce inflammatory markers in the prostate.

However, the overall quality and quantity of evidence are limited. Most studies are small, short-term, or lack rigorous controls. Systematic reviews acknowledge promising preliminary findings but emphasize the need for larger, high-quality trials to confirm efficacy and safety. While lycopene is widely regarded as safe and may provide general prostate health benefits, its specific role in treating prostatitis remains inconclusive.

In summary, lycopene is used to support prostatitis primarily based on early scientific evidence rather than tradition. The current evidence base provides weak to moderate support (rated 2/5) for its use, mainly due to limited and preliminary clinical data.