The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that can help identify problems with the prostate gland, including BPH and prostate cancer. According to the NCCIH, saw palmetto has no effect on a person’s PSA levels when tested. On rare occasions, males have reported erectile dysfunction, breast tenderness, gynecomastia (abnormal breast growth), and a loss of libido (sex drive) when using saw palmetto for a long period of time. Saw palmetto is thought by some to help treat a condition in males called chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).
Introduction
The study also found that saw palmetto treatments increased hair density and stabilized disease progression in 83.3% and 52% of the participants, respectively. In Europe, Permixon, a medication containing SPE, also known as lipidosterolic extract derived from saw palmetto berries or LSESr, is approved for use as a prescription drug for the treatment of mild-to-moderate LUTS. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regards dietary supplements like saw palmetto as generally safe for use. The findings were limited by the small study size as well as the lack of a control group (participants who were given a placebo). By suppressing androgens, saw palmetto is seen by some as an inexpensive and attractive alternative to prescription hair loss drugs like topical Rogaine (minoxidil) and oral Propecia (finasteride). In fact, low testosterone (hypogonadism) is an important risk factor for BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms.
Saw palmetto, a small palm tree native to North America, has long been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. In recent years, saw palmetto has gained popularity among men seeking natural remedies for various health concerns. But what exactly does saw palmetto do for men?
High levels of DHT are responsible for symptoms like acne, excess body hair (hirsutism), oily skin, and irreversible hair loss. This is why saw palmetto is often recommended for managing symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). In people who took Resettin, which is a supplement containing saw palmetto and an antioxidant called astaxanthin, testosterone levels were found to be increased by 38%.
Though androgens like DHT are needed for normal sexual development and other important functions in both men and women, high levels of DHT can overstimulate hair follicles, which leads to a shorter growth period. This causes shorter and thinner strands of hair and delayed hair growth and replacement. BPH causes urinary symptoms like urinary retention, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and a weak urine stream. These symptoms are collectively known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and can significantly impact the quality of life in men with BPH. The health benefits of saw palmetto supplements are attributed to these active substances.
Prostate Health
One of the most well-known benefits of saw palmetto for men is its potential to support prostate health. Studies have shown that saw palmetto extract may help reduce symptoms of an enlarged prostate, such as frequent urination and difficulty emptying the bladder. This is due to saw palmetto’s ability to inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate enlargement.
There is not yet any good evidence to support this claim, and many studies investigating the use of saw palmetto report headache as a common side effect. Some researchers contend that a fatty acid in saw palmetto, called palmitoylethanolamide PEA), has anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects that can benefit people with CP/CPPS. Of concern is the suggestion that testosterone somehow worsens BPH and that the suppression of testosterone will improve symptoms (a hypothesis referred to as “androgen saturation”). The manufacturer-recommended dosage can vary dramatically with some recommending 160 milligrams (mg) per day and others recommending dosages as high as 4,800 mg per day. As a general rule, never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended daily dose.
Hair Loss Prevention
In addition to supporting prostate health, saw palmetto may also help prevent hair loss in men. DHT is also known to play a role in male pattern baldness, and by blocking its production, saw palmetto may help promote hair growth and prevent further hair loss. Many hair loss supplements and treatments now include saw palmetto as a key ingredient for this reason.
Sexual Health
USPlus® is a great place to start, and you won’t need to look anywhere else. Saw palmetto extract is derived from the berries of Serenoa repens, palm trees. For example, those who are pregnant or nursing should avoid this supplement, as there is limited research on its safety and long-term effects (23). Saw palmetto is widely available in supplement form and is therefore incredibly easy to add to your daily routine. The active compounds in saw palmetto are believed to help block the activity of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT (19).
Saw palmetto might offer that relief, which is why the palmetto extract can come in handy for prostate health. Besides the positive outcome on the urinary tract, Saw Palmetto’s benefits for men can also be seen in the herb’s potential to manage hair loss, as well as migraine, chronic pelvic pain, and other ailments. Besides, the palmetto herb doesn’t interact with medications, making it a viable option for many. The problem lies in the side effects of these medications — they can cause sexual side effects, such as lowered sexual desire and impotence. However, the research isn’t conclusive enough to say whether saw palmetto is effective for PCOS.
Some studies suggest that saw palmetto may also benefit men’s sexual health. By promoting hormonal balance and reducing inflammation, saw palmetto extract may help improve libido and erectile function in some men. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of saw palmetto on sexual health.
Conclusion
Overall, saw palmetto offers a range of potential health benefits for men, particularly in relation to prostate health, hair loss prevention, and sexual health. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits, many men have reported positive results from incorporating saw palmetto into their daily routine. As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting saw palmetto to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
