A double-blind, randomized study from 2011 divided 369 men into two groups. One group took up to three times the standard daily dose of saw palmetto, while the other group took a placebo. The results showed that saw palmetto was no more effective than the placebo in reducing the lower urinary tract symptoms of BPH. A study in 2014 found that a supplement containing saw palmetto increased testosterone levels. However, the researchers noted that further research would be needed to establish the role of saw palmetto in effective testosterone regulation.
Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, saw palmetto may reduce clotting in the blood. Given saw palmetto’s ability to curb the overproduction of DHT via 5-alpha reductase activity, it may be beneficial in those who suffer from acne. This is another reason why saw palmetto is often recommended for those with PCOS. In Black women the primary cause of hair loss is due to an inflammatory disorder which leads to scarring of the follicle and permanent hair loss known as central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA).
Although inconclusive, current evidence does not undermine the experience of people who have found saw palmetto helpful. More research is required to conclude whether saw palmetto is an effective treatment for prostate-related conditions. As such, experts cannot say with certainty that saw palmetto stabilizes testosterone levels. Remedies containing saw palmetto alone, or mixed with other herbs, are sold widely in the United States and Europe. As with all herbal remedies, it is important to understand what evidence exists to support the safety and effectiveness of saw palmetto.
Elevations in the circulating concentration of androgens are thought to have a positive effect on the anabolic processes leading to improved athletic performance. Anabolic-androgenic steroids have often been used by competitive athletes to augment this effect. Thus, the focus of this review is to examine the effect that manipulating energy and nutrient intake has on circulating concentrations of testosterone and what the potential mechanism is governing these changes. An androgen hormone that regulates the development of male characteristics.
There has been a lot of buzz surrounding the use of saw palmetto as a natural remedy for boosting testosterone levels in men. But does it really work? Let’s delve into the research and find out.
What is Saw Palmetto?
A popular herbal remedy to boost testosterone levels in men is Saw Palmetto. This is a natural therapy, and it is derived from the Serenoa repens plant, which bears fruit. According to scientists, this herbal remedy is indeed helpful in treating a few reproductive and sexual functions in males. In one study, zinc supplementation increased testosterone levels and improved sexual function in postmenopausal women with low blood levels of zinc (32). Additionally, a 2017 study involving 102 men with a vitamin D deficiency found that taking a vitamin D supplement increased testosterone levels and improved erectile dysfunction. However, more research is needed, as other studies yield conflicting results (29, 30, 31).
Meanwhile, Minoxidil improves hair coverage in over two thirds of those who use it. However, if you are after something natural, there’s no harm in trying saw palmetto at all. Its avowed ability to tackle low-T is one of the main selling points of saw palmetto. Whilst this idea has gained a lot of traction online, however, there is no strong scientific evidence that saw palmetto actually affects the levels of testosterone in the male body. Whilst it is not clear precisely what role testosterone plays in the process of erections, men with low testosterone often struggle to achieve an erection.
More research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms through which saw palmetto may affect testosterone levels. Though both produced negative side effects on male sexual function, the saw palmetto supplement led to smaller drops in libido and lower impotence compared to the conventional drug treatment (12). It’s thought to work by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen-type hormone believed to cause this form of hair loss (14, 15). Some people believe that saw palmetto can help improve libido by reducing testosterone breakdown, and there is some evidence to support this.
Saw palmetto is a plant that is native to the southeastern United States. It has long been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including enlarged prostate gland and low libido.
How Does Saw Palmetto Work?
The active compounds in saw palmetto are believed to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By blocking this enzyme, saw palmetto may help to maintain higher levels of testosterone in the body.
- Some studies have suggested that saw palmetto may help to increase testosterone levels in men.
- However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal dosage of saw palmetto for testosterone enhancement.
Are There Any Side Effects?
While saw palmetto is generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience side effects such as stomach upset or headache. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
In conclusion, while the potential of saw palmetto to increase testosterone levels in men is promising, more research is needed to fully understand its effects. If you are considering using saw palmetto for this purpose, be sure to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it is the right choice for you.
