More about Saw PalmettoSaw palmetto is an herb that's mainly used by men over the age of 40 to improve prostate health or combat an enlarged prostrate, especially during the early stages. However, the berries of this palm plant have been used to treat many complications associated with the urinary tract and reproductive system. Support prostate healthSaw palmetto appears to be especially useful in treating a condition called "benign prostatic hyperplasia" (BPH). This condition is found in 50% to 60% of men between the ages of 40 and 59. Although saw palmetto will not shrink the size of the prostate, it may help alleviate the symptoms of BPH, such as frequent urination during the night, difficulty urinating, interrupted flow or dribbling during urination, and a reduced sex drive. It seems when there are excess amounts of the hormone testosterone in the prostate, the prostate can become enlarged. Experts report that saw palmetto helps dispose of extra testosterone and therefore keeps the prostate from enlarging. Saw palmetto may also help tone the bladder by improving the flow of urine and relieving undue strain. Shift the testosterone-to-estrogen balance?Some athletes, especially bodybuilders, have been interested in saw palmetto's anti-estrogenic effect. You see, saw palmetto may help block estrogen, and therefore, some people believed it could help shift the testosterone-estrogen balance over toward the testosterone side, possibly helping support muscle growth. Unfortunately, studies have revealed this may not work as well in the real world as it does in theory because in addition to blocking estrogen, saw palmetto also blocks testosterone, canceling out the intended benefit. However, any athlete supplementing with potential testosterone-boosting products, such as DHEA and androstenedione, may use saw palmetto to help keep his prostate healthy — now and in the future. This is because saw palmetto appears to inhibit dihydrotestosterone, which is a male hormone that, when overproduced, can lead to prostate enlargement. CaveatWhile some men may be tempted to simply reach for the bottle of saw palmetto if an enlarged prostate is suspected, it is best to consult with your doctor and submit to a physical exam and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. An enlarged prostate may lead to BPH or prostate cancer. This should be taken very seriously — other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer found in American men. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be about 198,100 new cases of prostate cancer by the end of the year 2001 in this country alone, and about 31,500 men will die of this disease. Enhance sexual enjoyment?Saw palmetto is also considered a tonic that has been shown to help strengthen and build body tissues, especially those in the prostate and urinary tract. In the past, it was believed to be a sexual stimulant and aphrodisiac and was prescribed to increase sexual energy and revive low libido in both women and men — most likely because of its potential ability to strengthen these tissues. Not just for menAlthough considered mostly for older men, women have also found saw palmetto beneficial. It may help promote the production of certain female sex hormones, which, in turn, promote breast enlargement and milk production in nursing mothers. Saw palmetto has also been used by women to relieve painful periods, regulate the menstrual cycle, and treat pelvic inflammatory disease. Once again, because of saw palmetto's potential for strengthening and building the tissues of the sex organs. In addition, saw palmetto may help increase ovulation and therefore reduce infertility. It has also been shown in scientific studies to be promising for people who may be fighting the effects of a thyroid deficiency. Combat chest congestionRecently, studies have shown saw palmetto to be promising for anyone suffering from chest congestion. It works as a natural "expectorant" to remove and help break apart excess congestion and phlegm in the lungs. Many experts have begun to recommend this herb to help relieve the phlegm build-up often seen with coughs, asthma, and bronchitis. In conclusionThroughout history, saw palmetto has been used for sexual dysfunction and urinary complications. Best known for its ability to help improve prostate health in men over 40, it's often completely overlooked for its potential benefits for women to help regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve painful periods. Once the community of females finds this low-risk, high-reward herb, it may very well become known for more than just prostate health. |
Amount In early stages of BPH (benign prostate hyperplasia or enlarged prostrate), 320 up to 500 mg per day is reportedly necessary. It may take four to six weeks to see results. After that, 160 mg twice daily should be enough. Other forms Between five and six milliliters of the liquid extract of the whole herb per day may be used instead. Saw palmetto can also be made into a tea with five to six grams of the powdered dried fruit and consumed each day. Note Extracts of saw palmetto which contain 85% to 95% fatty acids and sterols are preferable according to experts. Timing Divide dosages to supplement twice per day with meals for proper absorption. Synergists of Saw PalmettoNo synergists have been noted. Safety of Saw PalmettoIn rare cases, saw palmetto may cause stomach upset. Saw palmetto is not recommended for children. If you are using or considering using prescription drugs, please consult with your health practitioner about possible contraindications with this herb. Toxicity of Saw PalmettoNo known toxicity. Bans and restrictionsNone reported. |
