The saw palmetto, or American dwarf palm tree, is native to the southeastern section of the United States. Its berries were used by Native Americans of that area for a variety of medicinal purposes. Saw palmetto receives its medicinal properties from the many fatty acids it contains. Myristic acid, palmitic acid, lauric acid and oleic acid are beneficial components that make up the saw palmetto herb. Before using any herb to treat a medical condition, consult your physician.
Muscle Builder
Saw palmetto has anabolic properties that aid muscle growth. The fatty acids it contains work with protein to form building blocks that build and strengthen muscle tissues. Saw palmetto also affects testosterone, estrogen and progesterone levels. Not only does it inhibit estrogen receptor activity, but it can also raise testosterone levels, according to the website Body Building for You. Saw palmetto helps to balance hormone levels in both men and women. This activity can boost metabolism and also increase sex drive. Saw palmetto's effect on reproductive hormones like testosterone and estrogen may also account for the belief that it is an aphrodisiac.
Prostate Support
Saw palmetto may prevent enlargement of the prostate gland in men. Saw palmetto prevents testosterone from converting into dihydrotestosterone or DHT. Increased levels of DHT are partly responsible for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Even though there is little scientific evidence to support this action of saw palmetto, studies are under way.
Upper Respiratory Aid
Saw palmetto soothes mucus membranes and relieves chest congestion, bronchitis, asthma and coughing. Saw palmetto's anabolic properties also aid in strengthening the tissues of the lungs and respiratory tract. Dr. J.B. Read documented several medicinal uses of saw palmetto in 1879. He published his findings in the "American Journal of Pharmacy." Dr. Read detailed his findings concerning saw palmetto's ability to calm coughs, relieve inflammation and act as an expectorant.
Urinary Tract Support
Saw palmetto also has diuretic properties and has been proven to strengthen the urethra and other components of the urinary tract. Its ability to reduce inflammation can relieve discomfort due to bladder infections. By reducing inflammation of the bladder and prostate, it increases urine flow and eliminates feelings of discomfort and pressure, according to a study performed in 2003 by Dr. Andrea Gordon and Dr. Alan Shaughnessy of the Harrisburg Family Clinic in Harrisburg, Pa.
Member Comments