Saw Palmetto Benefits

While all the benefits of saw palmetto have not yet been discovered, there are a wide variety of advantages already known. Native Americans have known the positive effects of the saw palmetto for centuries. Extracts from the berries of the plant were used to treat nocturia (nighttime urination), impotence, inflammation of the prostate, enuresis, and atrophy of the testes. Native Americans also utilized the plant to treat low libido in men.

Modern alternative health experts now recognize the saw palmetto plant as a great provider of relief from the symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). The plant sterols and fatty acids found in the plant block most of the effects of a certain enzyme, one that promotes cell growth within the prostate itself. Some claim saw palmetto also acts a mild anti-inflammatory agent as well as an antiseptic, diuretic, and moderate sedative.

Some beauticians and dermatologists have found the saw palmetto can also positively affect the appetite, aid in digestion, and balance the hormones that regulate metabolism. It has also been turned into topical oils to moisturize and improve the skin, hair, and scalp. Many people use saw palmetto-enriched shampoos and dietary supplements to reduce and reverse hair loss and other scalp conditions relating to high production levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Other Saw Palmetto Benefits

Saw palmetto is quite affordable, especially when compared with other alpha-blockers and finasteride. In addition, the extract is very well tolerated within the body and has only caused mild or reversible side effects. These side effects include mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, all of which are usually settled if the plant extract is taken with a meal.