Roughly one-half
of the male population suffers from enlarged prostate, also referred
to as benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH. Its symptoms range from inflammation
(prostatitis) to swelling of the prostate, and painful and frequent
urination. The most common medical remedy for BPH is surgical removal
of the prostate, which can lead to impotence, incontinence and increased
risk of heart disease.
Prostate is enlarged
by the action of dihydrotestosterone, DHT, which is a metabolite of
the primary male hormone testosterone. The conversion of testosterone
to DHT is facilitated by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Recently, the
drug Proscar has been approved, which essentially functions by inhibiting
the action of this enzyme. The long-term side effects of Proscar, however,
are not known.
Nature provides
several remedies for the management of BPH, among which saw palmetto
berries (Serenoa repens) have been found to be most effective. Saw Palmetto
was traditionally used by American Indians as a remedy for increased
frequency of urination during the night, atrophy of the testes, impotence,
inflammation of the prostate and decreased libido in men. These beneficial
effects of saw palmetto have been thoroughly corroborated by various
studies carried out both in the United States and Europe.
Saw palmetto berries
comprise of a volatile oil, which contains a variety of fatty acids,
and is high in phytosterols. These ingredients not only control the
conversion of testosterone to DHT but also block its binding to the
prostate cells, which reduce the levels of inflammation and minimize
the risk of prostate enlargement. Importantly, saw palmetto also has
anti-estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects in addition to anti-inflammatory
properties. Saw palmetto, thus, is one of Nature's best and safest remedies
to promote male health, and increased vigor and vitality.
Ultimate Nutrition's
100% Premium Saw Palmetto Berries contains standardized extract with
fatty acid content in exactly the right amount to help promote health
both in men over 50 years of age and also younger male athletes who
may contract inflammation or experience transient impairment in their
libidinal drive.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
How Quickly Does Saw Palmetto Work?
Saw palmetto berries may become effective with discernible benefits
short periods of time. In some cases, it may be as short as six to eight
weeks.
What Are the
Side effects of Saw Palmetto?
No side effects of saw palmetto have been reported in any of the studies
other than mild gastrointestinal irritation, which resolves of its own
accord in a few days after the start of the regimen.
What is Recommended
Dosage of Saw Palmetto?
Many different preparations of saw palmetto are on the market, some
of which are standardized to phytosterols whereas other are standardized
to fatty acids. It is best to do research to obtain the product that
best describes the content of various active ingredients. Routinely,
a twice-daily dose of 160 milligram of saw palmetto extract standardized
to 85% fatty acids and sterols is recommended. From this, the amounts
necessary for optimal beneficial effects can be calculated, given the
percent standardization of any product.
Does Saw Palmetto
Enhance Libido?
Yes, over time, saw palmetto has the potential of promoting healthy
libido by triggering healthy biochemical processes in the prostate.
