Available Medical Information On Saw Palmetto

There is not much official and formal medical information on saw palmetto that is available. There may be medical studies and reports found in Europe where it has gained wide acceptance, and even considered a prescription product there – but the gist in these studies is mainly on treating BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Its inhibiting action on 5-alpha reductase enzyme to prevent conversion of testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is part of the medical information on saw palmetto. In addition, its anti-androgenic and anti-inflammatory properties seem to cause its effectiveness in treating BPH and addressing its symptoms.

Other claims on its effects on other medical conditions are mere personal testimonials and would be found wanting of in-depth studies regarding the matter. Among such claims include treatment of hair loss, promoting weight gain, increase in appetite, strengthening the immune system and promoting sexual health. When such intensive studies will be made, medical information on saw palmetto will be one of solid foundation and with sufficient proof to back up claims.

There is also medical information on saw palmetto that identifies its medicinal fruits – the berries -to have the magic formula of substances that provide the healing effect. Extracted oils from these berries or by crushing these – are the methods of getting a serving of this type of medication. Since preparation of these is not yet standardized, not all products in the market are of the same quality – and definitely not of the same potency.

Considered mainly in the area of alternative medicine, medical information on saw palmetto finds the extract of the berries prepared with other herbs as pygeum in order to get a more powerful blend that could provide a better healing effect on one’s illness. It is also combined with other substances that exhibit more or less the same characteristics it has in terms of its workings in the body. This is done to get a more powerful formula – and a good combination with saw palmetto is zinc.

Medical information on saw palmetto includes its effect on the PSA (prostate specific antigen)levels. PSA measurements are done to determine one’s chances of getting prostate cancer. Taking saw palmetto lowers PSA levels. Detection of prostate cancer becomes complex with such an effect, thus the need for getting a baseline PSA level.

Thus if one is self-medicating on saw palmetto, one should tell his doctor of such - as a wrong diagnosis may be made out of your condition. The important thing here is that even before such a herb is used – no matter how mild and safe it may seem, one should refer it to his doctor – it just is the right thing to do.