Saw palmetto, scientifically known as Serenoa repens, is a palm tree native to the southeast United States. Its distinctive pointed branches bear small berries. This plant and its berries have long been used in traditional medicine to address various health issues. The Seminole Native Americans, for example, consumed saw palmetto berries to alleviate urinary and reproductive problems. In modern times, saw palmetto has gained popularity as a supplement for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate.
Effective Treatment for Enlarged Prostate
Saw palmetto is widely recognized as an effective treatment for an enlarged prostate. The prostate gland, an essential part of the male reproductive system, is approximately the size of a walnut and is located between the bladder and the urethra. As men age, the prostate naturally enlarges; however, in some cases, it can grow excessively, leading to bladder pressure and various uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms include frequent urination, difficulty initiating a urine stream, a weak urine flow, or the inability to completely empty the bladder. Saw palmetto works by inhibiting the production of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into another hormone that can contribute to prostate enlargement.
Reducing the Risk of Prostate Cancer with Saw Palmetto
As men age, their susceptibility to prostate cancer increases. This is particularly true for men aged 85 and older, as approximately 90 percent of them suffer from BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), which is believed to be a significant factor in the development of prostate cancer. Fortunately, saw palmetto, a natural supplement, has been found to inhibit the growth of the prostate, potentially reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
When it comes to treating prostate cancer, saw palmetto proves to be a superior alternative to other alpha-5 reductase inhibitors available in the market. Unlike commercial drugs, saw palmetto does not carry side effects such as impotence or low libido. In fact, studies have shown that saw palmetto can effectively induce growth arrest in prostate cancer cells without causing any adverse effects.