Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a condition that causes the prostate to enlarge. It mostly affects aging men. Symptoms such as difficulty urinating, urinary frequency, bladder infections and impaired kidney functioning are apparent with the condition. Medications, including herbal and conventional options, and home remedies are common treatments. Talk to your doctor about the right method for you.
About Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is an herbal remedy for BPH. Historical uses for the plant include increasing sperm count, boosting male libido and relieving urinary tract problems. Aside from its medicinal uses, the ripened fruit was consumed for nourishment, and thus was also a dietary mainstay for Native Americans.
Uses
It is no longer consumed as a food, but now saw palmetto's primary use is to treat BPH. Other uses include treating prostate infections as well as prostate cancer when combined with other herbs. The active substances in the berries are purported to reduce inflammation and enhance immune system functioning. For these reasons, the herb is sometimes used to treat respiratory infections, asthma and migraine headaches. The dried berries, capsules, tablets and tinctures are sold in pharmacies and health food stores.
Efficacy
Although saw palmetto's precise affect on the body is uncertain, experts believe the herb's chemical components reduce the production of enzymes that promote prostate growth. Although the herb does not directly shrink an enlarged prostate, it is shown to effectively treat the symptoms of BPH by reducing the inner lining of the prostate, which places pressure on the urinary tubes. Medline Plus notes that saw palmetto might be as effective as some prescription medications, although other research shows no benefit for some men. The efficacy of saw palmetto may also vary depending on the product. Products containing 85 to 95 percent fatty acids and sterols are preferred. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosage before using saw palmetto.
Safety and Cautions
Although saw palmetto is a safe treatment for most BPH sufferers, mild side effects, such as nausea, headache and bowel changes may occur. In addition, saw palmetto might slow blood clotting, which may cause problems for men using certain medications. Talk to your doctor about the safety of saw palmetto for BPH.
