Native to the southeast coast of North America, saw palmetto trees grow in South Carolina down to Florida. The tree only grows up to approximately 10 feet tall and produces berries that turn dark when ripe. In theory, if you have prostate cancer and saw palmetto lowers your PSA level, then it would be harder to find out if you had prostate cancer or not. We use only high-quality ingredients in our supplements, and you can rest assured that all our supplements are products of thousands of hours of research. Look for supplements that combine saw palmetto with other nurturing vitamins and herbs for PCOS, like selenium, zinc, and functional mushrooms. Capsules are the most common form of saw palmetto available on the market, so you should follow the dosage instructions provided on the packaging.
Remember that high doses of other anti-inflammatory medications such as fish oils and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines can also increase this risk. Be aware of the combination of medicines and supplements you are taking and talk to your health care provider for clarification. Among women, this type of hair loss is known as female pattern hair loss and is quite common, although understandably not talked about. FPHL prevalence increases with age with one study showing that 38% of women above the age of 70 who presented to a dermatology clinic for non-hair loss related symptoms experienced FPHL. While often referred to as “male pattern hair loss,” androgenic alopecia can happen in anyone with the genetic predisposition. High levels of DHT are responsible for symptoms like acne, excess body hair (hirsutism), oily skin, and irreversible hair loss.
Recently, I came across some information that saw palmetto is good for skin health. This piqued my interest and got me wondering if anyone has actually tried it and if it is beneficial for women as well.
If you’re considering trying saw palmetto for your BPH symptoms, be sure to talk with your doctor about potential side effects before you begin treatment. A recent report shows that men who take saw palmetto to alleviate their urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate may end up worse off than when they started. In addition, they found no significant differences between groups when comparing treatment effects on peak urine flow rate and maximum urinary flow rate over time. According to recent research, men who suffer from urinary symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may find relief from a popular herbal supplement.
In addition to preserving levels of testosterone, it may reduce levels of DHT, which may be involved in prostate enlargement and hair loss. One review of 7 studies found that oral and topical supplements containing saw palmetto improved hair quality by 60%, raised total hair count by 27%, and increased hair density in 83% of people with hair loss (3). According to one study, saw palmetto may help block the activity of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into another sex hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that is linked to hair loss (2).
When taking saw palmetto supplements for health benefits, it’s crucial to adhere to recommended guidelines. Clinical studies suggest that an effective dose typically ranges from 160 to 320 milligrams daily, usually split into two doses. It’s vital to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance before gradually increasing to the desired amount. Consistency is key; therefore, it’s best to maintain a regular dosing schedule. Even though higher doses of saw palmetto have been used in research studies, it doesn’t mean that high doses of saw palmetto are more effective or appropriate for everyone.
The Power of Saw Palmetto
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. A 2007 study suggests that saw palmetto might be helpful in the treatment of prostate cancer, as it appeared to slow down the growth of cells affected by the condition. As saw palmetto seems to have an impact on male hormone levels, it may also help reduce the growth of cancerous cells in the prostate. Some research suggests that saw palmetto can support prostate health and help prevent issues such as BPH and prostate cancer (10).
Saw palmetto is a plant native to North America that has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes for its medicinal properties. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, which can help improve skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Benefits for Women
While saw palmetto is often associated with men’s health, it also has benefits for women. Its anti-androgenic properties make it effective in regulating hormonal imbalances that can lead to acne and other skin issues. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and swelling associated with various skin conditions.
Personal Experiences
Although there is limited scientific research on the use of saw palmetto for skin health, many people have reported positive results after incorporating it into their skincare routine. Some have noticed clearer skin, reduced inflammation, and an overall improvement in the appearance of their skin.
Conclusion
While more studies are needed to fully understand the benefits of saw palmetto for skin health, anecdotal evidence suggests that it can be a valuable addition to your skincare regimen. If you are considering trying saw palmetto for your skin, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure its safety and effectiveness for your individual needs.
