Native to central Florida, saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a shrubby palm tree that grows in large thickets or colonies. Basically, all saw palmetto in the world is grown in the southeastern United States. Making this plant readily available, it is also highly cost-effective for the average consumer. It was used traditionally by Native American tribes for food, medicine, and for fiber used for various purposes.

Saw Palmetto for Prostate Health

This powerful herb has the ability to modulate inflammation due to high antioxidant levels. Additionally, it can reduce spasms and inhibit testosterone. One study compared it directly to finasteride, a drug used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treatment. Researchers found saw palmetto was helpful with fewer side effects than finasteride. The greatest effect was for men with a prostate less than 50cc in volume. Testosterone appears to be reduced in the prostate itself, leaving blood testosterone levels alone. Generally, this herb is used in men suffering from BPH, urinary tract muscle spasms, and/or inflamed prostate. It can also be used for any other disease accompanied by high testosterone levels such as PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) or hair loss caused by androgenetic alopecia.

Easy to Use

Generally, saw palmetto is well-tolerated though nausea has been noted occasionally. Most research studies have used supplements of 160 mg twice a day or 320 mg once a day. For hair loss, it can be used orally or topically directly on the scalp. This particular supplement is best absorbed when taken with food. If you notice changes in urination or sexual health, always talk to your doctor to find out your best options. As always, ask your doctor if Serenoa repens is right for you. Dr. Blandford has a 15 minute Discovery Visit if you'd like to find out what natural options might be best for you and your health goals.

Resources:

1. Marks L.S., Hess D.L., Dorey F.J., et al. 2001. "Tissue Effects of Saw Palmetto and Finasteride: Use of Biopsy Cores for in Situ Quantification of Prostatic Androgens" Urology; 57: 999-1005
2. Suzuki, Mayumi, et al. 2009. "Pharmacological Effects of Saw Palmetto Extract in the Lower Urinary Tract." Acta Pharmacologica Sinica; 30(3): 227-81. doi:10.1038/aps.2009.1
3. Wilt, T. J., Ishani, A., Stark, G., MacDonald, R., Lau, J., & Mulrow, C. 1998. "Saw Palmetto Extracts for Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia." JAMA; 280(18): 1604. doi:10.1001/jama.280.18.1604
4. Yarnell, Eric. 2006. "Serenoa Repens (W Bartram) Small (Saw Palmetto), Arecaceae." Bastyr University, Department of Botanical Medicine: 1-11.

Image attribution: lom74266/freepik.com