Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to the southeastern United States. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its medicinal properties. Today, saw palmetto is commonly used as a natural remedy for various health conditions. So, what are the benefits of saw palmetto?
People with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) usually have imbalanced sex hormones, including excess androgen, per the Mayo Clinic. According to the ​International Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism​, saw palmetto is considered to be a potential anti-androgen, or something that can decrease sex hormones in the body. For example, the ​BMC Urology​ study showed that saw palmetto oil helped stabilize testosterone levels.
If left untreated, the prostate can enlarge to the point of interfering with the ability to properly empty the bladder. It can also increase the frequency and urge to urinate, often causing excessive nighttime urination which may disrupt sleep. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records.
1. Prostate Health
However, other studies have failed to replicate such results, warranting additional research. The saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) tree gets its name from its pointy, saw-toothed leaves, which are arranged like fans on thorny stems. This short palm tree can grow up to 10 feet in height with massive leaf clusters. Therefore, use is strongly discouraged in children, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women. More serious side effects like liver damage, pancreatitis, bleeding in the brain, and death have been reported in isolated cases. However, it isn’t always clear whether saw palmetto was the cause (21, 25, 26, 27).
One of the most well-known benefits of saw palmetto is its ability to support prostate health. Studies have shown that saw palmetto can help reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as frequent urination and urinary retention. It does this by reducing inflammation and blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to prostate enlargement.
As an added benefit, saw palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties, which could reduce that red, inflamed quality of acne. DHT acts directly on the hair follicle by causing it to shrink, which is referred to as miniaturization. Excessive DHT could lead to an increase in hair loss and prevent the regrowth of new hair. However, another study has shown that taking saw palmetto does not, in fact, decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Many people use herbal remedies, such as saw palmetto, based on anecdotal evidence. Most studies investigating the health effects of saw palmetto supplements have used doses ranging from 100 to 500 mg per day, though higher doses have been used without incident.
She notes that she often prescribes formulas with additional synergistic herbs tailored to the particular condition and individual to help treat the whole person. Some animal studies have noted that saw palmetto exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could provide pain relief. For example, saw palmetto extract was used to reduce swelling and decrease the levels of inflammatory markers like interleukins and cytokines in mice with enlarged prostates. According to one study, saw palmetto may help block the activity of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into another sex hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that is linked to hair loss (2). It may offer health benefits like improved hair growth, prostate health, and urinary function. Still, it appears less effective than conventional hair loss medications, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.
2. Hair Loss Prevention
Saw palmetto may help treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a medical condition characterized by a slow, noncancerous yet abnormal enlargement of the prostate. Saw palmetto can decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, which could result in an unplanned pregnancy. Individuals on birth control pills should refrain from taking this herbal medicine as it could increase the risk of becoming pregnant.
Saw palmetto is also believed to be effective in preventing hair loss. DHT is known to contribute to male and female pattern baldness. By inhibiting the production of DHT, saw palmetto may help prevent hair loss and promote hair regrowth.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties
In addition to its effects on the prostate and hair, saw palmetto also has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including arthritis and asthma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is saw palmetto safe to use?
Yes, saw palmetto is generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, it may have mild side effects such as stomach upset or headaches in some individuals.
How should I take saw palmetto?
Saw palmetto is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, saw palmetto offers a range of health benefits, particularly for prostate health and hair loss prevention. It is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries and continues to be popular today for its effectiveness. If you are considering using saw palmetto, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific needs.
