To increase urinary flow in men. Useful for benign prostate hyperplasia symptoms and for reduced urinary flow in men.Saw Palmetto is by far the most studied and most effective medicinal herb to treat benign prostate hyperplasia symptoms. It contains many active components: some hydrosoluble, like flavonoids, tannins and sugars, and some liposoluble, like carotene, sterols, fatty acids and fatty alcohols. These liposoluble molecules are demonstrated to be the most active in BPH treatment. The extracts in the studies were standardized to 80 to 95% liposoluble components.Saw Palmetto extract works in many different ways. It inhibits the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, therefore reducing DHT production. This effect seems to be specific to the prostate. Saw Palmetto also has an antagonist effect on DHT at the receptor level, reducing the impact of the cellular DHT. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect via cyclo-oxygenase and lipo-oxygenase inhibition (these two enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of inflammation factors like prostaglandins and leucotrienes). Moreover, Saw Palmetto has an antispasmodic effect that could improve urinary symptoms. However, it does not modify the circulating hormone levels, which confirms that it is effective only at the cellular level. Recently, a few studies have looked into Saw Palmettos reported anti-cancer effect. Although this data comes from in vitro studies, Saw Palmetto seems to effectively stop the proliferation of cancerous prostate cells. A special fatty acid, myristoleic acid, would have cytotoxic properties on these cells. The German Commission E acknowledges its benefits in cases of: urination problems in benign prostatic hyperplasia.Ingredients:Organic Saw Palmetto berry extract (Sabal serrulata; Serenoa repens) (certified by BIO Suisse) 320 mgOther ingredients (capsule): Gelatin; glycerin; purified water; sorbitol (from natural plant source); red, black and yellow iron oxidesDosageAdults: take 1 capsule daily with a small amount of water after a meal.Precautions, contraindications and interactionsContraindication: known allergy to one of the ingredients.Saw Palmetto is very well tolerated. A few side effects have been reported but the authors noted that they are similar to those reported with a placebo: gastric discomfort, nausea, diarrhea and/or constipation.Saw Palmetto is not recommended during pregnancy and nursing.BPH, prostatitis (prostate infection or inflammation) and prostate cancer should not be confused. A medical follow up is necessary for all men aged 40 and over.
