Numerous methods of achievement have been suggested, and Saw Palmetto shows to possess 5-alpha-reductase inhibitory action, which prevents testosterone conversion into dihydrotestosterone. Estrogenic/hormonal effects of Saw Palmetto have also been accounted, as well as anti-inflammatory properties and immediate inhibitory effects.

Other uses of Saw Palmetto such as acne, breast enlargement, cancer, cough, diabetes, high blood pressure, migraine, and others are based on traditional theories and have not been completely tested for people, its effectiveness and safety for these purposes have also never been proven. It is always important to have potentially serious conditions evaluated by professional healthcare provider.

Saw Palmetto dosage is often based on traditional use, scientific research, expert opinion, or publications. Like any other herbal supplements, Saw Palmetto as a dietary supplement may not have been completely tested, and its efficacy and safety may no be established. Saw Palmetto dosage may vary with different brands, with variable components, and even with similar brand. The following Saw Palmetto dosage may not apply to every product; it is vital to read labels of products, and talk to a qualified physician for Saw Palmetto dosage before beginning therapy:

Adults 18 years old and older - Oral/by mouth
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) A Saw Palmetto dosage of 320 milligrams per day, either in one dose or into two spilt doses (eighty to ninety percent liposterolic content), has been utilized in several studies. Reports reveal that 160 milligrams taken once every day may be as effectual as used twice daily. Other suggested or conventional doses that have not been thoroughly studied include: one to two grams of fried, ground, or whole berried per day; two to four milliliters of tincture (1:4) taken thrice a day.

There are limited research accounts on Saw Palmetto dosage in using rectal/suppositories for BPH, but have been given in dosages of 640 milligrams once a day. Extracts have shown to be much effective taken orally four times a day in 160 milligrams. There is no sufficient information of Saw Palmetto dosage administered to children younger than eighteen years old to recommend the product. Again, it is always very essential to use Saw Palmetto with a doctor’s advice and instructions.

1) Does saw palmetto help breast development?
2) Does saw palmetto help slow baldness?
(Does saw palmetto prevent hair loss?)
(Does saw palmetto stop hair loss?)
3) Does saw palmetto lower psa?
4) Does saw palmetto work?
5) Can I eat saw palmetto berries?
6) Can I start saw palmettos from seed?
7) Can women take saw palmetto?

Many of them are already addressed on my blog already, but I will try to answer these questions as we go. Thanks for your questions!

The hair undergoes different cycles – growing, resting and shedding. Thus the reason why there are times when one sees some amount of hair falling out. Hair falls out at an average of 100 per day. As it is a cycle, one would expect that eventually those hairs that were lost would eventually be replaced.

Unfortunately, not all things wished upon happens. So as in hair regrowth, there are instances when an individual begins to see his scalp through the hair – a sign that either the hair is thinning or replacement hairs have not grown to replace those that have fell off in the course of the cycle.

Saw Palmetto for Hair Growth – Worthy of Consideration

This is where saw palmetto for hair regrowth becomes an option. The saw palmetto herb is known to do well in helping one regrow hair. It should be clear that the studies backing up this herb show that it aids in re-growing hair not because it directly stimulates it to grow, but because it hinders the effects of DHT on hair loss.

DHT is dihydrotestosterone - formed with the interaction of testosterone and the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. This DHT attaches to hair follicle receptors – making it shrink through time. The growth cycle becomes shortened with less hair growing – and thus the thinning hair and hair loss eventually.

Saw Palmetto for Hair Regrowth – How It Helps

Saw palmetto, though not an active ingredient to actually stimulate hair to grow, can help in the process of letting the growth of hair take its natural cycle.

Saw palmetto for hair regrowth claims to work by blocking the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. Doing so will help prevent the formation of DHT. Also, it blocks the receptors so that DHT could not attach in the hair follicles – and hopefully prevent hair loss from occurring.

Saw Palmetto for Hair Regrowth – How Real Is It?

Saw palmetto was popularized by its use on BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). There were claims of its effectiveness in giving remedy to the symptoms associated with BPH. Saw palmetto is believed to address the Type II 5-alpha-reductase enzyme found mainly in the prostate.

Saw palmetto for hair regrowth addresses the Type I 5-alpha-reductase enzyme found in the skin and scalp. It is said to block this enzyme to interact with testosterone – which if left to do so would mean the formation of DHT.

A lot has still to be learned about saw palmetto and its effects over a longer period. But some studies have shown positive effects for this herb, and some personal testimonials have been available claiming for the healing effects it has – saw palmetto for hair regrowth is one such area where the herb seems to hold promise.

The problem starts when testosterone levels drop and another body hormone, estrogen is left in a much higher amount - this causes hormonal imbalance. The imbalance is another theory subscribed by some to affect the emergence of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). This is in difference to the more popular theory that focuses on the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), and thus developing BPH.

Saw Palmetto and Testosterone Control

Either way, testosterone plays a part in both theories. The use of saw palmetto and testosterone levels seem to have a direct relation. The herb inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

Administering saw palmetto and testosterone effect resulting with such use treats the symptoms of BPH – and as claimed by some, on male pattern baldness. As hair loss is believed to have been caused in the same manner as BPH, and by the action of saw palmetto and testosterone controlled as claimed - many have concluded even without significant medical studies, the efficacy of the said herb in alopecia treatment.

Workings of Saw Palmetto and Testosterone Effects

How saw palmetto exactly works is still not determined. And while it has been known that its active ingredients include the fatty acids, sterols and flavonoids – it has been thought that these are not the only substances that give a healing effect on one’s illnesses.

One such finding is the presence of high-molecular-weight polysaccharides in the berries, which are deemed to give saw palmetto its anti-inflammatory effect. More in-depth medical studies are necessary to determine all these – but while such has not yet been done – one can still take advantage of the healing powers of this amazing herb.

Saw palmetto, much like finasteride, is used for treating BPH and male pattern baldness. For BPH, finasteride may take several months before one can see positive results; for male pattern baldness – in around 3 months, one can already see its effect. Finasteride works by decreasing the active form of testosterone.

Saw palmetto supplements, as compared to the drug finasteride - with brand names as Propecia® and Proscar® - are believed to pose minimal side effects. Under the supervision of a qualified health care provider, saw palmetto may seem to be the better choice.

One of the herbs to get a partial nod from science is saw palmetto. The original uses of saw palmetto dates back many centuries ago to the Native Americans who considered its fruits a staple and treatment of diseases associated with the bladder and urinary tract. Clinical trials, including specially controlled double-blinded trials, on saw palmetto began flourishing in the mid-1980's. Many European countries like Germany, Austria, Ireland, etc. are accepting saw palmetto as treatment for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition of an enlarged prostate affecting 50-60% of men above 50 years.

Saw palmetto for fertility

Saw palmetto grows in southeastern United States. Its popularity in treating symptoms of BPH can be attributed to its active constituents concentrated in its berries, which includes essential fatty acids (lauric acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, and oleic acid) and phytosterols (or plant sterols). Whilst some studies agree with centuries-old tradition, how saw palmetto works is yet to be explained. Aside from its so-claimed effectiveness in treating symptomatic BPH, patients having fertility problems are finding an alternative out of saw palmetto for fertility.

The use of herbs particularly saw palmetto for fertility has been in practice for hundreds of years. However, clinical trials on saw palmetto are confined only to BPH. Saw palmetto seemingly do not set off adverse side effects although gastrointestinal distress was reported in patients taking 320mg daily in divided doses for at least 6 weeks. This mild reaction to saw palmetto can be alleviated when taking food along. For the purpose of comparison, not all clinical trials favor admonitions for saw palmetto. A 2006 study co-funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) on 225 men with moderate to severe BPH, who took 160mg twice daily for one year, reported no significant improvement in their conditions.

Consumers must be given stern warning on the use of herbs in general. Herbs like saw palmetto are potent so that it's important to discuss this matter with a medical practitioner. Moreover, patients wanting to lift the odds of becoming fertile are better off seeking a physician's advice than resorting to saw palmetto for fertility.

The use of the product through self-diagnosis is not amenable, and it is always advisable to discuss the matter with a health care provider for whatever purpose one wants to use the product. Although there have not been reported cases of Saw Palmetto overdose, its administration should be through a doctor, for proper dosage and instructions. The risk of Saw Palmetto overdose may be greater for those who are taking the product without proper advice by a physician or taking the product in abusive dosage to strengthen or hasten its effects.

To avoid Saw Palmetto overdose or other health risks, it is essential that one informs his or her doctor if they have the following conditions: breast cancer, prostate cancer, or any other disease or disorder related to sex-hormones. Taking Saw Palmetto if one has any of these conditions may be dangerous as the product affects hormonal levels in the body. Keep in mind that Saw Palmetto has not been FDA evaluated for effectiveness, purity, and safety, and so all possible risks and/or advantages of the product, including how Saw Palmetto overdose can occur, may not be identified.

Saw Palmetto usage in the traditional and cultural settings may vary from accepted concepts of present Western medicine. If considering the use of this herbal supplement, consulting a primary health care expert is advisable. In addition, consulting a practitioner skilled in the uses of health/herbal supplements can be beneficial, as well as coordinating the treatment among every health care provider involved, is much advantageous.

If decided on taking Saw Palmetto, using the product as directed on its package or as instructed by the doctor or pharmacist is very essential to avoid Saw Palmetto overdose and health risks. If by any chance, one experiences Saw Palmetto overdose (no reported symptoms yet), seeking emergency medical attention should be the first step. Like any other medication taken, avoiding its overdose is always through following the recommended dosage and most importantly as advised by the doctor.

Saw palmetto and zinc seem to complement each other, if not create a potent formula in providing for better health – especially for males that is. Saw palmetto and zinc substances are usually combined together in a preparation - to better combat prostate diseases and provide for a better prostate health at that. These two together, also provide for other health benefits that have been sought of by many.

Saw palmetto and zinc seems to exhibit the same properties and actions in one’s body. They both inhibit the 5-alpha reductase enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT is the culprit behind the prostate problems commonly experienced by men. That is why substances that prevent formations of DHT are used to treat such health condition – and saw palmetto & zinc are reckoned to have answered these needs.

Hair loss has also been attributed to the workings of DHT. As a comprehensive approach to hair loss remedy, saw palmetto and zinc can also be found on the list. Together with folic acid, B-complex vitamins and green tea – these provide one with a more complete approach to regaining hair back.

The combination of saw palmetto and zinc is deemed to be the perfect one. Both works to strengthen the immune system – making the one’s body less prone to infections and making it stronger to resist any form of sickness. Saw palmetto is believed to have a tonic effect, and zinc has some antioxidant properties – just imagine what the two together can do for the body.

Both saw palmetto and zinc are considered to have an effect on one’s appetite. Saw palmetto is believed to enhance one’s craving for food, and zinc plays a part in appetite regulation. And while saw palmetto has been attributed with its weight gain or tissue building effect, zinc is essential for one’s growth and normal development. With the appropriate dosage of each, one is aided in attaining his or her ideal weight.

Not contented with the many benefits these have already offered, saw palmetto and zinc also has influences on one’s sexual drive. Saw palmetto is said to be an aphrodisiac, while zinc is essential for normal reproduction for both men and women. Both can help in giving one a healthier and happier sex life.

For one to get the right dosage and to be sure of the safety in taking saw palmetto and zinc together – in consideration of other factors in play, as well as taking into account other medications you may be currently taking – your doctor can better advise you on this. In essence though, saw palmetto and zinc offers one a combination to contend with, in addressing the many health problems faced – especially by men.

Today, Saw Palmetto preparations are extensively used in Europe for linked BPH conditions; it was approved for this use by German Health authorities with the provision that Saw Palmetto be prepared containing the lipophilic components or the fat-soluble part of the medication. In the US, the FDA has banned the selling of every non-prescription “medications” designed for BPH treatment as they have not gotten evidence that proves them effective. Nonetheless, preparations of Saw Palmetto are broadly put on the market as “dietary supplements”.

The berries of Saw Palmetto have been found to contain plant sterol composite and free fatty acids identified as sitosterols or phytosterols, particularly beta-sitos-terol and several other related chemicals, which show to alter estrogen receptors and obstruct testosterone conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a much active chemical. A minimum of seven controlled studies have revealed the berry extracts of Saw Palmetto to be better than that of placebo for treatment of BHP symptoms.

There is however a few Saw Palmetto side effects, which have been distinguished in documented scientific literature. Among the most common Saw Palmetto side effects involve the intestines and stomach, which includes nausea, stomach pain, constipation, vomiting, diarrhea, or bad breath. An upset stomach caused by Saw palmetto intake may be lessened through taking it with food. Several reports have suggested that there may be lesser abdominal discomfort through lipidosterolic extract preparation called Seronoa Repens (LSESR).

Likewise, other Saw Palmetto side effects have been reports of dizziness, headache, muscle pain, insomnia, breathing difficulties, chest pain, muscle pain, irregular heart rhythm, high blood pressure, depression, chest pain, and heart disease, but are not yet evidently proven to be caused by the use of Saw Palmetto. People suffering from health conditions that involve the heart, stomach, lungs, or liver should use Saw Palmetto with caution. Women or are pregnant or breastfeeding are not recommended to use Saw Palmetto extracts because of probable hormonal activity.

Saw Palmetto side effects may not entirely be caused by the product, but it is very essential to consult a doctor before using Saw Palmetto even if simply as a dietary supplement.

Saw palmetto supplements come as extracts from the berries or by its crushed form. It is actually the oily compounds, plant sterols and flavonoids of the herb – which provides for the medicinal effects.

While many put it upon themselves to self medicate and primarily using herbs or other alternative medicines out there – this may be mostly safe, but one can never be that sure. That is precisely the reason why, even if it can be bought over the counter from local health stores – one still needs to refer this to one’s physician. It always pays to be safe.

Like any other drugs – both conventional and alternative, there are always side effects that may come with it. And with the subject at hand, it is a fact that there are health risks of saw palmetto use. It doesn’t mean that just because it is a herb that heals, that it will not be of any danger to your health.

Health risks of saw palmetto use include gastrointestinal symptoms and headaches. There have also been reports of nausea, reduced libido and erectile dysfunction. There was also a case of significant bleeding during surgery, which was traced to saw palmetto use prior said operation.

Also there may be health risks of saw palmetto use, when one is pregnant or breast-feeding. It should also be avoided for use on children. One should remember that saw palmetto has some effects on one’s hormones, and the reason exactly why one should avoid the intake of this on cases mentioned above.

There is always that potential for interactions with other drugs and medications, thus one should consider the health risks of saw palmetto use when one is on medication or is taking other drugs in the present time. This may pose some danger to one’s health, and since saw palmetto has not been thoroughly evaluated with its interaction with other drugs – one may be exposed to health issues because of this.

Health risks of saw palmetto use may have been considered to be of minor nature, but for your case such risks should be not be shun away. Always ask the advice of your doctor, and if it is viable for your end – your doctor will tell you so.

In the olden times, Saw Palmetto berries were an edible food among the Native Americans on the US’s southeastern region, also using them as a treatment for genitourinary inflammation, digestive problems, libido deficiency, and dysentery. Near the beginning of the 20th century, Saw Palmetto berries extract was listed as an efficient remedy for prostate gland enlargement or the BPH condition, breast disorders, urinary tract swelling, bronchitis, cystitis, and laryngitis.

Saw Palmetto berries’ active components include plant sterols, flavonoids, and fatty acids. However, these are probably not the only substances present contained by the berries that have an effect on hormone production, which will take additional scientific studies to exactly establish how the Saw Palmetto functions. Saw Palmetto berries also hold high-molecular-weight polysaccharides that are normally linked to either immune-stimulant or anti-inflammatory effects.

There are different forms of Saw Palmetto berries that can be bought in the market today such as tablets, tea, dried berries, liquid tinctures, powdered capsules, liposterolic extracts, and tablets. When buying these products, make sure to check that the product has been labeled indicating that the contents are standardized, as well as containing eighty-five to ninety-five percent sterols and fatty acids. In an evaluation done by ConsumerLab.com, it was found out that about sixty-three percent of Saw Palmetto leading brands were standardized to the said amount; however, it indicates that as numerous as thirty-seven percent did not. Again, it is very important to read labels to cautiously make sure that the products contain the required standard of fatty acids and sterols, and to buy from trustworthy companies.

Due to the possible side effects and contacts with Saw Palmetto medications, they should only be in use under the direction of a well-informed healthcare provider. As Saw Palmetto have been categorized by The American Herbal Products Association as an especially mild herb of class 1 safety rating, which signifies that it’s safe when taken as directed.

The several benefits of Saw Palmetto berries have been significantly noted, and are still under further studies for more uses. Although it has been found to treat certain conditions, using the product with caution and under a health professional’s advice is still the best option.