Saw Palmetto And The Male Prostate

Known for its various medicinal properties, the saw palmetto herb is a well-tolerated extract from the Serenoa repens fruit, an effective herb when it comes to men’s health. Originally found in the state of Florida, Native Americans discovered and used the plant to treat various ailments, including insomnia, coughs, and respiratory issues. Later, other interesting benefits were uncovered about this herb, for example, it is highly beneficial when it comes to male prostate health. 

Saw palmetto supplements are effective for men suffering from urinary tract issues and/or benign prostatic hyperplasia (these symptoms can occur when an enlarged prostate or BPH is present), which is why holistic practitioners use saw palmetto supplements as dietary aids to help minimize symptoms of a benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). 

Aside from being helpful for urinary tract function and prostate health, saw palmetto supplements can also help men dealing with other health issues. These include chronic pelvic pain, hair loss, and migraines. Saw palmetto supplements are a viable alternative for many people suffering from various ailments, but you can always consult with your healthcare provider for their recommendation.

6 Health Benefits of Saw Palmetto for Men

As mentioned, studies have shown that saw palmetto supplements can help with the maintenance of a healthy prostate and testosterone levels. Additionally, it can also improve hair and testosterone levels. In order to keep the urinary tract in check, it is important that people use a product that can help ease the symptoms of prostate gland health issues. 

1. Saw Palmetto Extract May Improve Urinary Tract Function

Patients can enjoy a better quality of life and urine flow if their symptoms are reduced. This is the reason why saw palmetto extract is useful for prostate health. The ability of saw palmetto extract to bind to certain receptors can help decrease the symptoms of urinary tract dysfunction. One of the most common issues that men with prostatic hyperplasia experience is voiding symptoms. Due to the presence of saw palmetto extract, it can potentially help improve the function of the urinary tract.

According to studies, saw palmetto is filled with various compounds, including flavonoids, sterols, and polyphenols. In men with prostatic hyperplasia, saw palmetto extract can help manage their urinary dysfunction. It can affect various receptors in the urinary tract.

2. Saw Palmetto Can Help In BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) Treatment

For men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, a doctor may suggest various treatment options, such as 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors or combination drug therapy. However, drugs can often cause adverse side effects, so many men turn to natural remedies. A clinical trial conducted on saw palmetto extract revealed that phytosterols found in the extract could be helpful in treating BPH.

The anti-inflammatory properties of saw palmetto, and its potential to lower cholesterol levels, can also help decrease the symptoms of BPH. Taking phytosterol, which is prepared from pumpkin seeds and saw palmetto, can help decrease the symptoms of this condition. In one study, participants took saw palmetto and were able to keep their prostate enlargement under wraps. For males with this condition, taking a saw palmetto supplement could prove to be a long-term solution.

3. Saw Palmetto Could Help Hair Loss

For males with BPH and prostate troubles, taking saw palmetto can provide them with a much-needed break from their health issues. Thickening the hair may help improve one’s self-esteem and quality of life. After taking saw palmetto supplements, participants in one study experienced a 60% increase in their overall hair quality, an 83.3% increase in hair density, and a 27% increase in total hair count. Findings from other studies also concluded that saw palmetto can stimulate hair growth. There have been numerous positive reports about the health benefits of taking a saw palmetto supplement for people suffering from hair loss.

The development of a hair follicle that is too small is known as miniaturization. Statistically, about 45% of men will have lost their hair by age 49. On the other hand, the hair loss is more evident in around 70% of Caucasian men at 79 years of age. One of the most common types of hair loss in men is androgenetic hair loss. This condition is characterized by the substantial hair loss that can be noticed on the scalp.

Although hair loss is a natural part of aging, it can also be hereditary. It can be caused by changes in one’s hormone levels and other medical conditions. Men are more prone to experiencing this issue than women are.

4. Saw Palmetto Can Take Your Sex Drive To The Next Level

For men suffering from low sex drive, taking a saw palmetto supplement could help them improve their sexual health. In addition to helping with prostate symptoms, the herb can also aid in maintaining a healthy urinary tract. Maintaining healthy and high testosterone levels can help keep one’s prostate in tip-top shape. Low levels of this hormone can negatively affect one’s sexual desire. Many men with BPH also experience low sexual function, a very common symptom as a result of inflammation.

5. Saw Palmetto May Aid With Fertility

When the prostate grows larger, it can obstruct ejaculatory fluids because it compresses the urethra. Some believe that taking saw palmetto can increase sperm count. Unfortunately, more studies are necessary to confirm this.

6. Saw Palmetto May Reduce Inflammation

Some studies suggest that saw palmetto has anti-inflammatory effects. In these studies, men with enlarged prostates took saw palmetto supplements and experienced a reduction in inflammation of the prostate. One study conducted on a group of men revealed that the swelling in their prostate decreased after they took a supplement containing saw palmetto.