Saw Palmetto Health Benefits

What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw palmetto is a type of palm that is  native to southeastern United States. The saw palmetto drupe fruit is its’ most vulnerable part. The berry is made of powerful compounds (sterol and fatty acids) that are used to treat many health conditions. The berries can be eaten raw, or the extract can be made into capsules and tinctures.

How does it help?

There are many benefits of saw palmetto. The most popular and well known benefits are: prostate health, hair growth, protection against prostate cancer, treating urinary tract infections, and reducing impotence. It also known to combat nutrient deficiency–  helping boost the immune system.

Prostate & Urological Support

The most universal and famed use of saw palmetto is for urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate gland. This is commonly referred to as BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia).
The American Urological Association states that by the age of 60, more than 50 percent of men will have BPH. By the age of 85, 90 percent of men will have BPH. In addition, one-fourth of these men will suffer from urinary tract symptoms. These are serious conditions that result in a lower quality of life.
By halting the breakdown of testoronce into its byproduct, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), saw palmetto can slow down or even stop the growth of the prostate.
“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commonly recommends saw palmetto as an alternative treatment for BPH. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 2 million American men use saw palmetto to treat the condition.”

Testosterone, Libido Boost & Hair Loss

Due to saw palmetto’s ability to balance testosterone in the body, it can increase fertility and libido. By thwarting the breakdown of testosterone, saw palmetto raises testosterone levels which effectively boosts the libido.
DHT is a sex steroid and androgen hormone that leads to many issues seen in middle and older aged males. Saw palmetto inhibits the growth of DHT thus halting hair loss.
Dr. Elist is a leading urologist that speciailzes in conditions explored in this article. Since 1982, Dr. Elist and his team have helped thousands of men with sexual dysfunction and urology problems. If you are in need of help, or want additional information about Dr. Elist’s practice, click here.