
Saw palmetto is a type of palm native to the southeastern United States. The berries of the saw palmetto are commonly used in supplements to improve prostate health, balance hormone levels, and prevent hair loss in men.
The medicinal herb Saw Palmetto as an alternative herbal remedy – Saw palmetto grows in the southern United States.Common Names–saw palmetto, American dwarf palm tree, cabbage palm
Latin Names–Serenoa repens, Sabal serrulata
- Saw palmetto (Sabal serrulata) has long been utilized by the Seminole Indians as a tonic to promote strength. The main constituents include glycerides, steroids, flavonoids, and volatile oil.
What Saw Palmetto Is Used For
- Saw palmetto is used mainly for urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland (also called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). *Saw palmetto is also used for other conditions, including chronic pelvic pain, bladder disorders, decreased sex drive, hair loss, and hormone imbalances.
How Saw Palmetto Is Used
- The ripe fruit of saw palmetto is used in several forms, including ground and dried fruit or whole berries. It is available as a liquid extract, tablets, capsules, and as an infusion or a tea.
What the Science Says about Saw Palmetto
- Prostate Health: Some research suggests that saw palmetto might be effective for treating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a condition that causes an enlarged prostate gland. However, the research is mixed, with other studies finding no benefit. A large study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that saw palmetto extract was no more effective than a placebo in improving symptoms of BPH.
- Hair Loss: Saw palmetto is also commonly used in supplements aimed at preventing or reversing male-pattern baldness. This use is based on the theory that saw palmetto can inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support this use, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.
- Hormone Levels: Some alternative medicine practitioners believe that saw palmetto can help balance testosterone and estrogen levels, but there is little scientific evidence to support this claim.
- Safety: Saw palmetto appears to be well tolerated by most people. Side effects are usually mild and can include dizziness, headache, and minor stomach discomfort. However, the safety of long-term use is not well studied.
In conclusion, while saw palmetto is popularly used for various health benefits, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is mixed, and more research is needed. As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting to take saw palmetto, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Herbal Remedy Products with Saw Palmetto as part of the ingredients
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Side Effects and Cautions of Saw Palmetto
- Saw palmetto may cause mild side effects, including stomach discomfort.
- Some men using saw palmetto have reported side effects such as tender breasts and a decline in sexual desire.
- Tell your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including saw palmetto. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.
The wise man says:
June 24, 2023
If you are working on a project with another individual and you received a message that is contrary to your objective, before you attack or ask why, simply ask what the message is about giving the other person a chance to explain. This is prudence.