If you’re looking through a list of helpful supplements, you may be intrigued by Saw Palmetto. This supplement is increasingly popular for prostate and hair health.
Saw Palmetto mainly works by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha reductase, which may lead to lower levels of DHT, a byproduct of testosterone, which in turn might help to regulate prostate health, prevent hair loss, and balance hormone levels. However, it doesn't directly preserve testosterone. Saw palmetto offers many physical (and aesthetic) benefits for the human body.
In this article, we’ll explore the many facets of saw palmetto, from its medicinal history to its current benefits and potential side effects. The supplement may be the uptick your body needs.
What is Saw Palmetto?
On a physical level, saw palmetto is a shrublike palm found in southeastern parts of the United States. The tree (also known as Serenoa Repens) grows up to 10 feet tall and contains thorn-shaped leaves.
The berries contain a volatile oil containing many fatty acids and phytosterols. Native Americans used palmetto berries for their medicinal properties. From there, men in the 20th century used saw palmetto to boost libido and increase sperm. However, the significant usages have changed today, though they’re all in the same ballpark.
Saw Palmetto Benefits
Saw Palmetto doesn’t just benefit a singular part of the body. Instead, this supplement acts like a health shotgun, creating a scattershot of positive benefits. Let’s explore the many positive effects of saw palmetto.
Hair Loss Prevention
Nearly 42% of men suffer from hair loss. While balding isn’t harmful, losing hair can be a blow to your self-esteem. Don’t give up: saw palmetto may be able to promote hair growth.
Research shows that saw palmetto can block the activity of 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which can further hair loss. Furthermore, this supplement reduces DHT in your hair, which limits what can cut down your growth.
For these reasons, saw palmetto may be the perfect antidote to your hair loss. Studies show that saw palmetto usage increased hair density in 83% of those with hair loss. That’s no small number.
Manages Prostate Health
As men age, they don’t have to lay down to their ailments. You can treat many common conditions with over-the-counter medications or supplements.
One of saw palmetto’s most significant effects is its ability to manage BPH – or an enlarged prostate. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is common in older men and often causes problems within the bladder, urine, and kidneys. Symptoms of BPH include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Increased urination
- UTI’s
- Inability to empty the bladder
While this condition is typically harmless, the urinary tract symptoms can cause discomfort and disrupt a healthy routine. Luckily, saw palmetto can help manage this condition. Studies showcase that saw palmetto can significantly reduce the symptoms of BPH and alleviate urinary symptoms.
Testosterone Regulation
Low testosterone in men and women typically links to low libido. However, saw palmetto can provide a potent option for returning testosterone to the body. The process is similar to maintaining hair.
Again, saw palmetto limits alpha-5 reductase, which limits DHT (dihydrotestosterone) from converting testosterone into an androgen hormone. These hormones regulate the development of male characteristics and cut down on testosterone. Research shows that saw palmetto is as effective as Finasteride when it comes to preserving testosterone.
Reduces Inflammation
Early research shows that saw palmetto may be a candidate for reducing inflammation throughout the body. However, while some studies have shown promising results in animal models, more research is needed to confirm its potential effects on human inflammation.
While early results are promising, we hope to see further developments in the coming years.
Possible Benefits
While less researched, saw palmetto offers many other possible benefits.
Best Saw Palmetto Supplements
If you’re interested in this supplement’s benefits, try our 100% Saw Palmetto. This supplement is a standardized berry extract with the right portion of fatty acids to keep you healthy.
With 100 pills, you’ll find more than enough to test the supplement for yourself. Whether you’re looking to regulate your testosterone, limit your hair loss, or manage your prostate, saw palmetto may just provide the benefits you need.
Side Effects
Like any supplement, exercise caution when adding saw palmetto to your diet. While usage is typically safe, monitor your symptoms to ensure you don’t experience prolonged side effects. Possible effects can include:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
If symptoms persist, discontinue the supplement and talk to your doctor. Saw palmetto should be safe for regular use, for up to three years.
Don’t take this supplement if you are pregnant, nursing, or engaged in hormone replacement therapy. Furthermore, saw palmetto may cause negative interactions with those on blood thinners and include bleeding risk. If you have underlying conditions, talk to your doctor before starting this supplement. No pill is more significant than your everyday health.
Explore the Supplement World with Ultimate Nutrition
In a nutshell, saw palmetto offers a wide range of health benefits, from prostate and testosterone regulation to hair growth. Whatever you’re going through, there are likely supplements out there for you. Many assume their problems are chronic or not worth combating, but treatment can often be quick and straightforward.
At Ultimate Nutrition we offer a wide assortment of supplements from Weight Loss & Energy to Health & Wellness. For further hair regulation, try out Super B Vitamin Complex. For prostate and testosterone help, our TestostroGrow supplement is a significant boost.
No matter what you find, keep exploring the supplement world. Maximize your fitness by keeping your body in tip-top shape.