Saw Palmetto- Overview, History, Uses, Benefits, Precaution, Dosage, & Effectiveness
What Is Saw Palmetto?
Saw Palmetto is known for maintaining the health of men. Saw palmetto berry has been used for medical purposes either fresh, dried or extracted. Since ancient times as a folk medicine with tonic, diuretic and sedative effects for men. It is used to prevent and improve benign prostatic hyperplasia and is also attracting attention for its preventive effect on hair loss and thinning hair.
Saw palmetto is a rich source of anti-inflammatory effects, so it is expected to have the effect of suppressing inflammation of the prostate, skin and hair. Saw palmetto is rich in fatty acids such as oleic acid and lauric acid, and plant sterols (phytosterols). In addition, fatty acids contained in plenty of saw palmetto have the function of inhibiting enzymes related to male hormones.
Saw palmetto plant is a type of herb from the palm family. Since the fruits of saw palmetto contain a lot of oily substances, they are also used as fuel saw palmetto oil in addition to food and medicine.
Today saw palmetto is famous in men, but in ancient times it was used by men and women to treat urinary conditions, increase hormonal imbalance. Moreover, it has been used to reduce indigestion and improve sleep. For the most benefits of saw palmetto, choose the best saw palmetto brand in India like us.
The dwarf palmetto, or saw palmetto, is native to the southeast areas of North America. The saw palmetto tree produces dark berries that carry big seeds. Native Americans have found useful saw palmetto fruit for its nutritious, diuretic, sedative, aphrodisiac, and cough-relieving characteristics. The berries are now consumed whole or dried and used to make tea.
Saw palmetto is a dried and crushed supplement that can be consumed as a pill or tablet. It's widely available, particularly online, and the most frequent form is oily extracts of the dried berries' fatty components. Depending on the process of extraction, these supplements contain 75–90% fats.
The extract saw palmetto is used in herbal treatments and is believed to affect testosterone levels. But, more importantly, what conditions can it be used to treat safely, and does it work?
Saw palmetto-based remedies, either alone or in combination with other herbs, are commonly available in the United States and Europe. As with all herbal remedies, it's important to know what evidence there is to back up saw palmetto's protection and efficacy.
In this article, we look at the benefits, dosage, and side effects of using saw palmetto extract-based remedies.
Saw palmetto's latin names are Sabal, Sabal serrulata, Serenoa repens, Serenoa serrulata.
Saw Palmetto or Sereoa Repens is a small palm plant belonging to the Arecaceae family and Coryphoideae subfamily. The Arecaceae family has a flowering plant that leads to the fruit.
The common names for saw palmetto are Saw palmetto, shrub palmetto, dwarf palm Palmetto. In India, in Hindi, it is called Krakach Tal in many states.
Saw palmetto is native to the West Indies and the southeastern regions of the United States. It thrives in Florida, Bahamas, Georgia, Cuba, etc. in particular.
It is noted that August to November is a saw palmetto season. Basically saw palmetto berries get ready to eat in the rainy season. For harvesting, we can say July to October is a good month.
What Is The History Of Herb-Saw Palmetto?
It was first found by local people. According to one theory, a horse who ate its ripped fruits got a beautiful coat in some days. So, it became a folk remedy. Later, in the 19th century, European immigrants brought Saw Palmetto to their country and full-scale research on saw palmetto began. America found and used it as folk medicine in an aphrodisiac and for treating prostate problems. In the 1700s, it was used to treat male urinary problems. In the 1800s, juice from berries is noted for gaining weight, improving general disposition, as a sedative, and promoting reproductive health.
Saw palmetto is rich in fatty acids, sterols and oleic acid, and its various effects are attracting attention. Among them, the inhibitory effect of the bad male hormone (dihydrotestosterone) is known.
Scientist research is going on and it has already been approved as a medicinal drug in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Sweden, Belgium and Hungary and other countries are using it as a Supplement with the Saw Palmetto extract.
Mechanism Of Saw Palmetto (How Does Saw Palmetto Work?)
The main mechanism of Saw Palmetto inhibits 5-alpha reductase. It's a hormone-converting enzyme that turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Well, Dihydrotestosterone is required at a certain percentage in the body’s tissues. Saw Palmetto berry and its extract are approximately 90% fatty acids, and also have an abundance of medium-chain saturated fatty acids known as laurate and myristate.
Saw Palmetto also blocks the 1-adrenoceptors that result in hypertension and many more. Its extract is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the activity of inflammation. Moreover, in recent studies, it is noted to increase the p57 protein production and decrease the p21 protein production.
Saw Palmetto benefits in many ways due to its mechanism of action to the body.
Saw Palmetto Relationship
Saw Palmetto has been used in many ways. Let's know about how saw palmetto works with testosterone, hair growth and prostate.
Male androgenic alopecia(MAA) is a common problem in men for hair loss. It is caused when men start getting old and hormone level changes in their body. Hormones changes cause hair loss and male androgenic alopecia. Of course, it is a drawback for men to lose their self-confidence and esteem. Saw Palmetto is a natural source that works for hair loss and hair growth. Saw palmetto or saw palmetto extract works similarly to minoxidil and finasteride. Finasteride, in particular, inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. They are FDA approved drugs for hair growth.
According to a 2021 study, it is conducted on mild to moderate age-related hair loss. They compared saw palmetto to finasteride. Both groups noted an improvement in hair growth. A 2016 study stated that saw palmetto was administered orally to prevent hair loss.
The searches show that saw palmetto is a suitable alternative for men who do not want to take prescription medications for hair loss. Saw palmetto hair loss is, after all, a natural resource.
At a glowing age, testosterone levels naturally decline. The lower level of testosterone has been associated with fatigue, impotence, weight gain, low libido, and a decrease in muscle strength. As we know, Saw Palmetto is a DHT blocker. It supports the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. So, instead of going to harmful testosterone replacement, many men are looking for a natural method to improve their testosterone levels.
According to a study in 2008, supplements containing saw palmetto may help to increase the testosterone level in the body. The same study showed a reduction in DHT, the mechanism through which hair growth is stimulated. Saw palmetto testosterone is quite famous.
At old age, many men experience the enlargement of the prostate that causes many problems. BPH(Benign prostatic hyperplasia) is one of them. Symptoms may appear around age 40, 50 and so on, affecting up to 50 percent of men. The symptoms include difficulty emptying the bladder, dripping urine, decreased urine flow, and changes in urinary frequency.
Saw palmetto is Alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors that lead to natural solutions for the prostate. Saw palmetto is a herbal medicine that studies have shown to be beneficial for some people with enlarged prostate problems. In a study, treating hundreds of men with enlarged prostate symptoms, half of them will benefit from saw palmetto while the other half will not notice any positive changes.
Benefits Of Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto has a wide variety of applications. The majority of them revolve around the impact it is thought to have on testosterone. Low testosterone levels can lead to several problems that could be treated by restoring testosterone levels. Some believe that saw palmetto inhibits the breakdown of testosterone. When testosterone is unable to break down naturally, its levels in the body rise.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-malignant enlargement of the prostate gland caused by an increased volume of epithelium and connective tissues. It is commonly found in mild ages like 30,40,50 or more. At a growing age, testosterone decreases in the body and affects prostate size. It is very common, around 75% of men have BPH in their 70s.
Between the bladder and the colon, you will find the prostate. So, enlargement of the prostate causes other problems on the body like emptying the bladder, less urine flow and many urinary dysfunctions. Saw Palmetto uses to stop the enlargement of the prostate.
It's normal for men to lose some hair as they get older. This natural process is triggered by a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is generated as a by-product of testosterone breakdown. Saw palmetto suppresses the production of dihydrotestosterone, which excessively secretes sebum, closes pores, and promotes hair loss on the scalp. Extra sebum, close pores accumulated around the roots. With this condition of the scalp, even if you wash your hair, it will become sticky immediately, the scalp will become hot, and acne and enzymes will easily occur. For healthy hair and to prevent male pattern baldness, it is good to add a Saw Palmetto Supplement to the diet. Saw palmetto may decrease the sebum secretion, increase the hair growth cycle, may make them thicker and shiny.
Men who want to naturally increase their testosterone levels utilise saw palmetto. Managing testosterone levels can have an impact on body composition, sex drive, mood, and cognition, among other things. Testosterone levels fall with age, and some evidence suggests that low testosterone levels may play a role in illnesses such as heart disease. Saw palmetto supplementation lowers the activity of 5-R, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), another sex hormone, and hence helps to maintain testosterone levels in the body.
Saw palmetto has the effect of suppressing the action of enzymes that produce substances to promote inflammation in the prostate. Prostatitis is common in younger men and causes incontinence, pain in urination, and frequent urination. It is difficult to heal when it becomes chronic, and it is said that bacterial ones repeat recurrence. The action of enzymes such as lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase work to prevent prostatitis.
Saw Palmetto is traditionally used to increase libido and may treat many dysfunctions in the body. A study conducted in a group shows a better result to improve the interest and fertility in the men. Actually, testosterone is the reason that keeps healthy fertility. Low testosterone in the body leads to low libido, low interest. Somewhere, it may also improve sperm quality and count.
As a neuroactive steroid, testosterone can influence your mood and make you happy. Sometimes, a low testosterone level in the body causes a bad mood, sleep-less night, anxiety, depression and many more. Saw palmetto may be helpful to have a happy start for a day. It prevents testosterone conversion and builds balanced hormones in the body. Not only men saw palmetto for women may be used to promote a good mood even in menstrual time.
Being a DHT blocker, Saw Palmetto increases collagen production in the body. Collagen is the main protein for the skin to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, acne, spots and increase blood flow to the skin. Saw Palmetto may help to get rid of skin irritation and infections. Saw palmetto and its extract is suitable for all skin types because it nourishes and hydrates the skin from inside.
Skin inflammation or body inflammation occurs due to many problems. Saw palmetto may help to reduce inflammation. Because saw palmetto contains the antioxidants compound called epicatechin and methyl gallate that acts as anti-inflammatory properties that may work for certain conditions. According to the study, it is effective if it is taken regularly for 3-4 weeks. However, while these findings are encouraging, more research is needed to discover how saw palmetto may affect inflammation in individuals.
Other Minor Benefits
Saw palmetto might also be used to treat a variety of other illnesses, including below. The use of saw palmetto to treat these illnesses is based on tradition, but researchers aren't sure what its active ingredients are or whether it helps with symptoms.
Saw Palmetto may be useful for the common cold by providing benefits to the respiratory system.
Saw palmetto has proven to be a diverse and powerful healer. Bronchitis is one of the numerous ailments for which saw palmetto can be therapeutic, as it can help the body's respiratory passageways.
Efficiency Of Saw Palmetto
Many people rely on anecdotal evidence to use herbal remedies like saw palmetto.
However, it is important to consider the science behind the claims and see what evidence there is to back up saw palmetto's protection and effectiveness.
Saw Palmetto Precaution
Saw Palmetto is linked with many benefits for the human body. But it is not recommended to use by everyone. Below are the situations in which you need to consider the saw palmetto uses.
- Blood Clot Problem- Saw Palmetto should not be used with blood clotting drugs like aspirin, rivaroxaban and more. In a study, it is noted that saw palmetto and its extract significantly causes more blood loss.
- Birth Control- Saw palmetto is not recommended to intake with birth control pills. It may reduce the effectiveness of birth control by reducing the estrogen level.
- 5-reductase Inhibitors- Saw palmetto is known for 5-reductase Inhibitors. So, it should not be used with the prescribed 5-reductase Inhibitors drugs like finasteride.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding- Saw Palmetto should not be used by pregnant women and breastfeeding women. It acts like a hormone and can be dangerous to use.
- Surgery- It is not good to use Saw Palmetto before and after surgery. It is recommended to stop saw palmetto at least 2 weeks before and after the surgery.
Still, you want to have Saw palmetto or its extract even in less quantity then consult your healthcare professional first, then get saw palmetto online.
Saw Palmetto Dosage & Interactions
Saw Palmetto is widely available in the market in supplement form and is very easy to buy and consume. As we know, FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) has prepared a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) value for all the herbs and plants. The recommended dose of Saw Palmetto is 320mg a day in two daily doses of 160mg. Because Saw Palmetto Extract with a fatty acid content of 80-90%.
Well, there is no definite dose for a particular disease treated by Saw Palmetto. The benefits of Saw Palmetto vary with the body types and supplement compositions. Well, it is said that the most effective is the standardized dry extract.
It is suggested to check the product label to have a limited dose. Now, you can easily check how much you want and how much you are consuming. When taking saw palmetto for the first time, it's a good idea to consult a doctor. A doctor will determine whether or not taking saw palmetto with other medications is healthy.
Note - Products containing saw palmetto can be purchased online, but you should consult a doctor before using them to ensure that they are healthy.
Important: For a better and effective result, it is said to use the saw palmetto or its extract up to for 4-6 months. Make sure to regularly use it.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) on Saw Palmetto
What is saw palmetto called in India?
Saw palmetto indian name is Krakach Tal. Saw palmetto in hindi written as क्रकच ताल.
What is saw palmetto good for?
Saw Palmetto is known as a dietary supplement for benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, male baldness pattern and urinary tract problems. It acts as a DHT blocker and prevents testosterone from conversion.
Does saw palmetto actually work?
Yes, In many studies palmetto worked for the enlarged prostate, urinary problem, late-night urine, the flow of urine as well as support hair growth. Saw palmetto is best known for the BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) symptoms and hair.
Does saw palmetto really block DHT?
Yes, Saw Palmetto has an enzyme that reduces hair growth and prostate enlargement by blocking the formation of DHT. DHT(Dihydrotestosterone) is a byproduct. 5-reductase enzymes conversion of testosterone to Dihydrotestosterone. Balanced testosterone in the body helps in many ways.
How to use saw palmetto for hair loss?
Saw Palmetto is available as a supplement in many forms like saw palmetto capsules, saw palmetto tablets, saw palmetto liquid, saw palmetto powder and saw palmetto tea. It is typically combined with other herbs for better results. Bhumija Lifesciences Sea Palmetto with Nettle Root capsules for daily intake for hair loss treatment with 2 herbs. If you found Saw Palmetto Powder, it is good to apply directly on the hair scalp.
How much saw palmetto for hair loss?
By RDA(Recommended Dietary Allowance), the recommended dose is 320mg per daily either in a capsule or two capsules. So, you can have one Bhumija Lifesciences Saw Palmetto with Nettle Root tablet twice a day with a glass of water.
Can saw palmetto shrink the prostate?
When the prostate gets enlarged in your 30 or 40 or so on, saw palmetto is used to shrink the prostate. Enlargement of the prostate is common in older age and it leads to many problems like difficulty in urination, late-night urine, and many more. As per the study, saw palmetto may actually work.
What effect does saw palmetto have on the prostate?
Saw Palmetto acts as a DHT blocker and stops the conversion of testosterone to the byproduct, dihydrotestosterone. Dihydrotestosterone is required in the body, but not much. At an older age, the conversion increases and needs to be prevented. Sa palmetto may stop and slow down prostate growth.
What is the benefit of saw palmetto to a man?
Saw Palmetto has been very helpful for men since ancient times. It is used to boost testosterone levels naturally. It blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. As a result, it may increase libido, fertility, hair growth, prostate disorder & function, urine function, mood and the common cold.
Can saw palmetto help with hair growth?
Yes, Saw Palmetto may help in hair growth. It is highly used in the male baldness pattern. The formation of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) creates a wall of sebum around the hair root, which causes hair loss and makes them thin. Saw palmetto is a DHT blocker and prevents testosterone.
When it comes to hair loss, how long does saw palmetto take to work?
If you are having a recommended dose of 320mg per day regularly, then it may take 3-4 months to show effective results on the hair loss. It is not a drug, saw palmetto is used as a supplement and may take time. It varies too as per individual.
Is saw palmetto an effective DHT inhibitor?
Yes, saw palmetto is a famous planet based DHT blocker. Saw palmetto is rich in enzymes that block the working of 5-alpha-reductase enzymes that convert the testosterone to dihydrotestosterone.
Is it safe to take saw palmetto regularly?
Yes, it is safe to take saw palmetto daily up to a maximum of 320mg. It is meant to be consumed daily for effective results. It is not good to skip a single day or single dose.
What is the best time to consume Saw Palmetto?
It is often suggested to divide the Saw Palmetto 320mg dose into two doses. You can consume one in the morning and once at night. It is good to keep an interval in both doses.
What drugs affect saw palmetto?
Many drugs affect the Saw Palmetto effect and may also cause saw palmetto side effects. You need to avoid the use of drugs with the use of saw palmetto are clopidogrel, dalteparin, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and others.
What happens if I miss a dose of saw palmetto?
It is okay to miss doses within 1-2 hours. If it is time for your next dosage, then skip the previous missed dose. You need to keep a healthy interval between both the dose
Conclusion
Saw palmetto is a type of palm that is used to make a supplement with numerous medicinal values. Saw palmetto has been shown in several trials to boost testosterone levels, prostate health, reduce inflammation, prevent hair loss, and improve urinary tract function. In any case, recent research has yielded conflicting data on its efficacy.
To clearly identify how saw palmetto can affect health, more large-scale human research is undertaken. Saw palmetto may have fewer negative effects, however, it should not be taken by those who are on certain treatments or pregnant or breastfeeding women.