What is it? Saw Palmetto is an herbal oil extract from the berries of the plant called a Saw Palm. Researchers are still working to fully understand the beneficial effects of this herbal extract. What is known is that the fatty acids are purported to be responsible for testosterone-inhibiting effects within the prostate. What does it do? Put simply Saw Palmetto opposes the actions of testosterone. This is significant since testosterone levels have been directly linked to several health conditions including hair loss. Proponents of Saw Palmetto claim that it balances hormonal activity restoring whatever damage may have been caused by an imbalance. Is it effective? It depends on who you talk too. The Naturopathic Community is very confident and report definite results although they admit that they do vary based on the quality of the herb and the person taking it. Consensus in the medical community is positive but reserved. They want to see more comprehensive clinical trials done but also admit that with a Doctors guidance for most people it will not harm people to try it. For many decades in Europe and Asia it is considered the herb of choice for treating BPH Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or enlarged prostate in men. Many report very positive results. Will it help my hair loss? Since we also know that hair loss is closely related to testosterone activity, it is very often recommended that any Hair Loss Treatment Plan include a DHT blocker and Saw Palmetto as an herbal supplement. Today it is the active ingredient found in the majority of all natural hair loss treatments. A word of caution: Doctor Supervision as with any treatment plan, consult with your Doctor Quality Concerns - There are currently no regulations or standards so when purchasing this buy from a well known brand name. Try different brands as pay attention the labels regarding content per dosage. PSA False Positives - Because it can alter the results of the PSA test for prostate cancer make sure to advise your Doctor if you require testing that you are taking it Pregnancy - Do not take Saw Palmetto if pregnant or breast feeding Resources:
http://www.berkeleywellness.com/html/ds/dsSawPalmetto.php
http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec02/ch019/ch019q.html
http://www.consumerlab.com/results/sawpalmetto.asp
http://www.sawpalmetto.com/
http://www.herbalgram.org/default.asp?c=060501press
http://www.drugs.com/mtm/saw_palmetto.html
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