The Benefits of Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto is an herb that is extracted from the dark purple berries from the plant, the American saw palmetto. Native Americans once used this herb for urinary problems and since then, research has proven that Saw Palmetto is helpful to men with prostate problems.

Most commonly, Saw Palmetto is used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, generally known as BPH. BPH is very common in aging men and is basically the enlargement of the prostate gland, which can in turn, cut off urine flow, causing discomfort. Saw Palmetto has been carefully researched and the results are that it can effectively help in easing these symptoms. The enlargement of the prostrate seems to be triggered by an abnormal level of male hormones and Saw Palmetto helps to reduce the absorption of the hormones within the prostrate gland. It can also help to reduce the inflammation and swelling. However, if taking Saw Palmetto for the relief of symptoms of BPH, your doctor should be aware of what you are taking.

Due to Saw Palmetto not being regulated in the United States, as it is an dietary supplement, you can never be sure of exactly what you are getting when you buy it. There are many forms of Saw Palmetto on the market and some of the studies have indicated that not all will have the same effects. Although the optimal dose is unknown, studies have used 320 milligrams per day, either in a single dose or split dose. The best possible way to take Saw Palmetto is in a commercial extract of the berry's oils. The herb in tea is generally ineffective as the active oils will not dissolve in water.

If taking Saw Palmetto for prostrate problems, your doctor should be aware of what and how much you are taking. The only side effect reported from Saw Palmetto has been mild gastrointestinal distress and if taken with food, it will reduce this effect.