Saw palmetto is well-known for its ability to effectively treat BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia. But did you also know it can help treat chronic inflammation and repair a flagging libido? And that’s not all! Read on.
What is Saw Palmetto?
Saw palmetto is a small plant native toNorth America. Standing anywhere from 2-4 feet tall, the saw palmetto plant can be easily recognized by its fan-shaped leaves and oblong-shaped berries. The oil of the saw palmetto plant is extracted and used for its medicinal benefits.
Saw Palmetto Improves Prostate Health
Many men over the age of 40 struggle with some type of prostate problem. This means frequent trips to the bathroom at night, weak urine stream, prostate discomfort, swelling, straining, dribbling, and even the dreaded erectile dysfunction. Saw palmetto is said to work similarly to the prescription drug Finasteride but without the expense and side effects of the medication.
Saw palmetto relieves the symptoms of BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia by decreasing inflammation and blocking the conversion of testosterone into the male androgen DHT or dihydrotestosterone. Excessive DHT in a man’s body not only causes enlarged prostate, it can also cause premature hair loss in men.
The best way for a man to take saw palmetto for prostate problems is 320 milligrams per day in softgel form. Saw palmetto tea is often ineffective because it does not contain enough of the volatile oil to make a noticeable difference.
Other Health Benefits of Saw Palmetto
The health benefits of saw palmetto don’t stop at just men’s health. Here are some other great uses for this medicinal herb:
- Alleviates the Pain of Urinary Tract Infection
If you’re a woman or a man who suffers from frequent urinary tract infections, saw palmetto can help. Taken in combination with pure cranberry extract, saw palmetto can help decrease the pressure and discomfort on your bladder and urethra while the cranberry goes to work to flush out your system.
- Clears Chronic Sinusitis
If you have trouble breathing through your nose due to chronic sinus congestion, the anti-inflammatory properties of saw palmetto can ease your suffering. This medicinal herb also works well for those with chronic post nasal drip, cough, and cold because of its expectorant properties.
- Improves Libido
If a flagging libido has put your sex life on the back burner, saw palmetto may be able to health. Saw palmetto has been shown to boost both male and female libido. Women, however, should not take this medicinal herb if they are pregnant, nursing or trying to conceive.
- Treats Asthma
Due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant qualities, saw palmetto is a good medicinal herb for asthma sufferers. Saw palmetto can be used in conjunction with cinnamon and honey, another natural asthma reliever!
- Relieves Menstrual Cramps
Saw palmetto can help alleviate the severe pain associated with menstrual cramps. Its anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties make it the go-to natural remedy for women who double over in pain with cramps each month.
- Increases Blood Circulation
If cold hands and feet are a problem for you, saw palmetto can help. This naturally warming herb helps improve circulation throughout your entire body.
- Eases Stomach Pain
If you suffer from chronic stomach pain, you could have an undiagnosed food allergy. While you’re doing some research on gluten and lactose intolerance, reach for saw palmetto to relieve the constant discomfort. Just remember, using this herb will stop the symptom but it’s very important to get to the bottom of your mystery symptoms instead of just covering them up.
- Treats Acne
Acne isn’t just a teenage problem. Plenty of men and women in their 30s and 40s are still seeing blemishes when they look in the mirror. If you’ve tried everything to clear up your skin, you may have never thought to use saw palmetto. This natural herb contains high levels of polysaccharides, which boost your immune system and act as a natural anti-inflammatory.
- Combats Male Hair Loss
Men with excessive levels of the androgen DHT in their blood may notice premature hair loss. Saw palmetto works to control the production of DHT in the body and helps stop inflammation of the hair follicle that may result in shedding hair.
- Treats Inflammatory Disorders
Fibromyalgia, arthritis, and chronic fatigue sufferers may also find relief with saw palmetto. This herb boosts the immune system, acts as a muscular anti-spasmodic, and treats chronic inflammation from the inside out.
Saw Palmetto Contraindications
Just because an herb or supplement is natural, doesn’t mean it’s completely safe to use for everybody. Saw palmetto should not be used by pregnant or nursing mothers. It should also not be taken if you’re planning to have surgery within two weeks. If you have a bleeding disorder, do not take saw palmetto without first consulting your doctor. If you’re taking any prescription medication of any kind, talk with your pharmacist about the safety of this natural herb.
As you can see, saw palmetto is a powerful natural remedy with the ability to treat a wide variety of common conditions. Whether you’re a man looking to treat his BPH or a woman trying to alleviate menstrual cramps, saw palmetto can provide the natural relief you’ve been looking for.
Saw Palmetto definitely improves prostate health. Good article!