What is Saw palmetto?

Saw palmetto has emerged in recent years in the field of alternative health to treat several ailments, and can function as a preventative agent as well. Some of these medicinal claims appear true, but many people are still unaware of exactly what is saw palmetto, where it comes from, and why it has become such a popular health nutrient.

Saw palmetto is a dwarf palm plant found in the southeast of North America and the West Indies. The plant which grows to between 2 and 4 feet is sought for its berries, which can form the basis for capsules, tea or an extract that can be consumed for a variety of maladies. The active ingredients are flavonoids, plant sterols and fatty acids which should be concentrated 85-95% in any good supplement purchased.

The most common use is for BPH or enlarged prostate in men, which can cause bladder problems and irregular urine flow, including the need for frequent urination. It has been shown that saw palmetto can alleviate the symptoms of BPH just as effectively as some prescription drugs, but from a natural source. According to some researchers, it does not actually shrink the prostate, but appears to work on the area near the urinary tubes that may feel pressure. Saw palmetto may also affect testosterone, and reduce the enzymes that increase production of prostate cells. Despite the lack of clarity on how it works, many studies have shown its effectiveness in treating BPH.

There have been some early indications that saw palmetto may also be effective in treating prostate cancer, as it has an effect on male hormones which may contribute to that disease. Usually, it would be supplemented by other herbs for this purpose, but there are no conclusive studies that it prevents the development of cancer or can be used in treatment.

Less certain uses for saw palmetto include treatment for baldness, as a sedative, as well as to alleviate colds and sore throat. Its effect on testosterone levels may explain its use for libido support for men and to increase vitality. There are those who take it for migraine headaches and to treat asthma, but its effectiveness is only anecdotal at this point. Latest studies has proven that It also has a healing effect
on acne patients (Read here)

The side effects of saw palmetto appear to be mild, but may include upset stomach or mild headaches and it is not recommended for pregnant women. It may also reduce the effectiveness or oral contraceptives, and might affect various blood thinning drugs.

Despite these precautions, saw palmetto is seen as a relatively safe natural medicinal product, and may provide a substitute for treatment of the widespread problem of male prostate enlargement symptoms. Some have suggested trying saw palmetto first before the prescription drugs, in part because it can do no harm, and also the drug therapies available may actually increase cancer risk. In any case, its use should be supervised by a physician if one is substituting it for drug remedies to be sure that the treatment is working, and not causing any interactive problems with other medications.