Saw palmetto
Here are some key uses and properties of saw palmetto:
- Prostate Health: Saw palmetto extract is often used as a natural remedy for managing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can lead to urinary symptoms in older men. It is believed to work by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with prostate enlargement.
- Urinary Symptoms: Men with BPH may experience urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting and stopping urination, and a weak urinary stream. Saw palmetto may help alleviate some of these symptoms and improve overall urinary function.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Saw palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, which can be beneficial for urinary symptoms.
- Hair Loss: Some saw palmetto supplements are marketed for their potential to combat hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in both men and women. The mechanism may involve the inhibition of DHT, which is associated with hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss.
- Anti-Androgenic: Saw palmetto is considered a mild anti-androgen, which means it may affect the body’s response to androgens (male hormones) like testosterone and DHT. This can have implications for conditions influenced by these hormones.
- Anti-Oxidant Properties: Saw palmetto berries contain antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
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