Some also use the supplement to boost libido and fertility and reduce inflammation. Horny goat weed (HGW) extract is derived from the Epimedium grandiflorumplant. Grandiflorum, HGW is commonly used in many men’s health supplements[33]. The bioactive ingredient in HGW is icariin, which has historically been used as an aphrodisiac and herbal treatment for ED in Chinese men[34].
Maca and saw palmetto are two popular herbal supplements known for their various health benefits. Maca is a root vegetable native to Peru that is often used to boost energy levels, improve fertility, and enhance libido. Saw palmetto, on the other hand, comes from the berries of a small palm tree and is commonly used to support prostate health and hormone balance.
Potential benefits of taking maca and saw palmetto together
Avoid using saw palmetto together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting. This includes angelica (dong quai), capsicum, clove, danshen, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, horse chestnut, panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, turmeric, vitamin E, and willow. If you choose to use saw palmetto, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs.
Given the possibility for contamination, practitioners should inform patients about the fact that these herbal supplements may contain unreported compounds. Numerous other ingredients are found in popular dietary supplements and nutraceuticals marketed for improvement in sexual function. Though our review focuses on the top ten ingredients identified in a prior study, the current literature on several other common ingredients is presented here[9]. Despite its aphrodisiacal and medicinal properties, consumption of fenugreek can have toxic effects.
While both maca and saw palmetto offer unique health benefits on their own, combining them may provide even greater advantages. Some potential benefits of taking these two supplements together include:
Since berberine can affect certain medications, herbs, and supplements that you may take, you may wonder if it can affect the food, or ingredients in it that you love to eat. While berberine works great for patients that have been diagnosed with diabetes, it can be potentially harmful if combined with blood sugar medications. If a diabetes patient is already on medications to help lower their blood sugar levels, berberine can lower them even more, which could cause hypoglycemia. You should take Fenugreek if you want increase breast milk production or improve your blood sugar levels.
Icariin has PDE5 inhibitor activity in vitro and may mimic some properties of testosterone[7]. Despite the growing use of supplements for treatment of sexual dysfunction, ED supplements remain poorly studied, with limited data demonstrating efficacy of individual ingredients. Further study is required to definitively determine the efficacy of nutraceuticals in ED treatment.
- Enhanced libido and sexual function
- Improved prostate health
- Increased energy levels
- Regulated hormone levels
Considerations when taking maca and saw palmetto together
Before combining maca and saw palmetto, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. Additionally, consider the following factors:
- Start with small doses and monitor your body’s response
- Be aware of potential interactions with other medications
- Choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources
In conclusion, taking maca and saw palmetto together may offer a range of health benefits, but it is essential to approach supplementation with caution and awareness of how these herbs may interact with each other and with any existing medications you may be taking.
