Saw Palmetto: Exploring Health Benefits

Scientific Insights: How Saw Palmetto Works

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is found in the southeastern United States. It resembles a palm tree with berries. In the Southeastern United States, Native Americans used berries as food and medicine. People use it in various supplements to treat prostate-related issues, manage hair loss in men, and regulate hormone levels. It also improves urinary function.

What are the benefits of saw palmetto?

Some of its benefits include the following:

For Prostate Health

Some research findings reveal that it can help treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prevent prostate cancer.

Some studies on animals and humans reveal that its supplement can effectively control BPH-related inflammation. However, some studies are inconclusive in establishing its advantages in treating symptoms of BPH.

An article on Mount Sinai states that the herb is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects on the prostate. A study reveals that when combined with selenium and lycopene, it has a more significant anti-inflammatory impact on the prostate.

Some studies indicate that it may help reduce the prostate gland’s size. However, because most of the studies conducted for less than three months, there is skepticism about the effectiveness of the herb in treating BPH.

Two major studies funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH) did not find it effective in treating BPH symptoms. NIH states, “No saw palmetto product has conclusively shown effectiveness for BPH.”

NIH maintains that saw palmetto, even in higher doses, does not impact the readings of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. The prostate gland produces PSA, which doctors use to diagnose and screen for the possibility of prostate cancer.

Two studies concluded that it is no better than a placebo in treating BPH symptoms.

A study found that consuming 1,200 mg per day of Resettin, a supplement containing raw saw palmetto and astaxanthin, increased testosterone levels by 38%.

Treating Hair Loss

People have used the herb to treat hair loss in men and regulate hormone levels. Hair loss in men results from various factors like hormone changes, genetics, the use of certain medications, and certain medical conditions.

According to the findings of one research it may prevent an enzyme that is instrumental in converting testosterone into another sex hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which contribute to hair loss problem. Believers claim the herb prevents hair loss by controlling the ingestion of DHT in the hair follicles.

A review of several studies revealed that supplements containing saw palmetto improved hair quality by 60% and increased hair density in more than 80% of people.

Treating urinary tract infection

Older adults face challenges of incontinence and difficulty in urinating. A study involving 354 men revealed that taking 320 mg of the herb reduced the symptoms of BPH and improved urinary flow and sexual function.

However, contrary to this, a review of several studies found that it did not contribute to reducing urinary tract infections.

Improvement in testosterone levels

Testosterone level decreases with age. It is associated with several health issues, such as mood, sex drive, and brain function. Saw palmetto weakens an enzyme, 5-alpha reductase, which contributes to converting testosterone to DHT and thus maintain testosterone level.

A study reveals that its extract was as effective as finasteride in maintaining testosterone levels. Doctors use finasteride to treat BPH and hair loss by suppressing the activity of 5-alpha reduction.

Some of the side effects

Saw palmetto has been known to have few side effects. Some side effects associated with it include dizziness, headache, constipation, and nausea. It is also likely to increase bleeding risk by interfering with blood thinners.

Since the herb may change hormone levels, it may not be suitable for those undergoing hormone replacement therapy.

To be safer, consult your doctor before consuming it especially if you are taking certain medications, have some health issues, or are pregnant. The herb is likely to be harmful if taken by women during pregnancy or breastfeeding.  

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, suggest adopting a precautionary approach since urinary tract symptoms can be due to various reasons, including prostate cancer.

Although herbs have been used for health benefits for time immemorial, herbs can also have side effects and interact with other herbs and medications. It is, therefore, advisable that herbs are used by consulting a health care provider.

Sources:

Mount Sinai. Saw Palmetto. (https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/saw-palmetto). Accessed May 29, 2023

National Centre for Contemporary and Integrative Health. Saw Palmetto. (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/saw-palmetto). Accessed May 29, 2023

Ajmera, R. (2021). 5 Promising Benefits and Uses of Saw Palmetto. (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/saw-palmetto-benefits#1.-May-prevent-hair-loss). Accessed May 30, 2023