Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement currently being used to relieve urinary symptoms due to the enlargement of the prostate gland or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This form of phytotherapy (treatment based on plant) is widely used in European countries and is considered to be the first hand treatment during the initial stage of this common non-malignant health problem in men. In the United States, although saw palmetto is not one of the prescription drugs for benign prostatic hypertrophy, Americans are using is as one of the dietary supplements with known health benefits. With the help of numerous studies that aim to establish the efficacy of Saw palmetto to many health problems, it will one day be an accepted alternative treatment for dozens of health problems worldwide.
Saw palmetto is the extract derived from the dried berries of the saw palmetto fan palm, a plant native to the southern regions of the United States and some parts of California. Because of its growing reputation, saw palmetto is now being grown commercially for export to various herbal supplement markets all over the world. According to studies, Saw Palmetto benefits are due to the extract’s high content of plant sterols, flavonoids, and fatty acids.
Saw Palmetto Benefits
- Saw palmetto contains beta sitosterol that acts by inhibiting the growth of the prostate gland. This substance interferes with the enzymes involved in the gland’s enlargement. Saw palmetto is very beneficial to older men experiencing symptoms of BPH including frequent urination, night urination, and leakage of urine.
- Saw palmetto is an effective remedy for persistent coughs.
- Saw palmetto can help alleviate common symptoms of several digestive problems.
- Saw palmetto can prevent hair loss.
- Saw palmetto helps in boosting the immune system and improves the body’s ability to fight of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is most specifically effective to urinary tract infections.
- Saw palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties which can be helpful to some inflammatory conditions.
- For women, saw palmetto can treat uterine irritability and promote breast growth.
- Saw palmetto is considered an aphrodisiac, a substance that increases libido and promotes better sexual performance.
- Saw palmetto can intervene with hormones that cause excessive facial and body hair in women afflicted by polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Saw Palmetto Side Effects
Saw palmetto supplements are highly safe. They may offer some side effects but are relatively mild and reversible. Some saw palmetto side effects include allergic reactions, headaches, nausea, and upset stomach.
Saw palmetto is best used with your doctor’s advice. In people with hormonal problems, saw palmetto must be used with extreme caution as it has hormonal properties.
