Saw palmetto is a dwarf palm called with the scientific name Serenoa repens, which grows almost on the entire southeast coast of the United States. Saw palmetto contains large amounts of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and sterols (phytosterols).
The intake of the saw palmetto extract is considered responsible for the decreased activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that stimulates the conversion of testosterone into a more active form dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
The latter has high levels in men with prostatic hyperplasia syndrome and is considered to be responsible for its overgrowth.
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What Is Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a dwarf palm called with the scientific name Serenoa repens, which grows almost on the entire southeast coast of the United States. It reaches a height of between two to four meters and grows extremely slowly, which determines its long life.
It is believed that some of the specimens are seven centuries of age. The fruit of the palm tree is ruddy-black and large, with soft flesh that surrounds a big pit.
What Do We Need to Know About the Saw Palmetto Extract
In the past, the fruit of the tree was important for the livelihoods of the local people. With time they found some of their useful properties and started using them in their healing practices.
The colonizers of the New Continent learned about the benefits of the plant and added it to the medicinal plants. There is written information on the use of dried (rough) extract from the fruit from two centuries ago.
It is well-known overseas and in Western Europe, but in East Europe, the extract from saw palmetto is still relatively unknown to people.
Its promising properties, however, will quickly change that. Saw palmetto contains large amounts of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and sterols (phytosterols).
Purpose and Health Benefits of Saw Palmetto
The most well studied or known phytochemicals in the composition of the plant are beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol.
Proven benefits:
- Prevents the benign enlargement of the prostate gland;
- Relieves the symptoms of inflammation in an already started process of prostatic hyperplasia and slows the progression of the disease.
The protective effect is due to reduced activity and the metabolism of male hormones. The intake of the saw palmetto extract is considered responsible for the decreased activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that stimulates the conversion of testosterone into a more active form dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
The latter has high levels in men with prostatic hyperplasia syndrome and is considered to be responsible for its overgrowth. The inhibiting (blocking) of 5-alpha reductase prevents the overgrowth of the prostate.
The complete blocking of the levels of 5-alpha reductase, however, has not yet been achieved. Results of the extract are a 32% reduction in the levels of the treacherous enzyme without affecting the testosterone levels.
Side Effects and Contraindications from the Intake of Saw Palmetto
There have been reports of gastrointestinal irritation and headaches due to the intake of the extract. There are also reported cases of mild discomfort and reduced libido by men without prostate problems.
The use of the extract is best to be avoided by pregnant and lactating women. While it is deemed safe, the active ingredient beta-sitosterol has a structure similar to cholesterol.
Its high intake can cause problems in people with heart disease. Therefore the intake of Saw palmetto and particularly beta-sitosterol should be consulted with a doctor.
What Shouldn't We Combine Saw Palmetto
There are no in-depth studies on the subject.
Necessary Doses and Way of Intake
The daily dose is 320 mg of standardized oil extract (i.e. lozenges or oil capsules), divided into two intakes.
The concentration of fatty acids and phytosterols within the composition of the dragees is 80-90%.
In Which Sports and Health Supplements Can We Find Saw Palmetto
Herbal testosterone ergogenics, herbal supplements to complex energetics, formulas for combating fatigue, complex vitamins, herbal adaptogens, and as a standalone product.
