Overview
Saw palmetto extract is derived from the berries of the saw palmetto plant (Serenoa repens), a small palm native to the southeastern United States. Saw palmetto extract is a popular herbal remedy known for its potential health benefits, particularly for prostate health in men. Here’s are some benefits of saw palmetto extracts:
Benefits
Prostate Health: Saw palmetto extract is most commonly used to support prostate health, particularly in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It may help reduce urinary symptoms associated with BPH, such as urinary frequency, urgency, weak urine flow, and nighttime urination. Saw palmetto extract is believed to work by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme involved in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which contributes to prostate enlargement.
Urinary Tract Health: In addition to supporting prostate health, saw palmetto extract may benefit urinary tract health in both men and women. It has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of urinary discomfort, irritation, and inflammation. Some individuals use saw palmetto extract to support urinary flow and reduce urinary tract symptoms.
Hormonal Balance: Saw palmetto extract contains fatty acids and phytosterols that may help modulate hormone levels in the body. It is believed to have mild anti-androgenic effects, which could be beneficial for conditions such as acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women.
Hair Health: Some research suggests that saw palmetto extract may have potential benefits for promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss, particularly in men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). It is thought to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, which can reduce the conversion of testosterone to DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Saw palmetto extract exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and urinary tract infections.
Antioxidant Activity: Saw palmetto extract contains antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. Antioxidants play a key role in reducing inflammation, preventing cellular aging, and supporting overall health and well-being.
Sexual Health: Some men use saw palmetto extract as a natural remedy for enhancing libido, improving sexual function, and alleviating symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED). While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy for these purposes, some men report experiencing improvements in sexual health with saw palmetto supplementation.