The dark red berries of the saw palmetto plant are one of the most popular herbal supplements. Recommended for benign prostate symptoms, saw palmetto is a North American herb with no history in the Asian or European systems of medicine. When compared with other herbs from those systems, it is seen as a herb that strengthens the body, particularly in regard to strength related to the heat functions of the body. These types of functions are associated with the endocrine system, particularly libido/infertility, hormone function and the strength of urinary and intestinal muscles in the body. Native Americans used saw palmetto berries as a diuretic, for stomachache and as a sexual tonic. Because of the traditional uses, caution is urged when this is used in cases of high blood pressure or in combination with diuretic medication.
In our modern times saw palmetto is almost exclusively used in the treatment of symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). There have been many studies looking into the effectiveness of this supplement. Saw palmetto has anti-estrogenic properties and has been shown to lower dihydrotestosterone in the prostate tissue.
In many ways saw palmetto is no longer being used as a herbal medicine. It should more appropriately be considered a unregulated drug or supplement. Saw palmetto as used for BPH is strictly used for symptom control, specifically to improve urinary flow. It is not being prescribed according to traditional herbal principles of the various herbal traditions.
Patients with BPH should remember that saw palmetto has been shown to provide symptom relief. Saw palmetto may not be appropriate for the underlying health issues that are specific to the patient. A nationally board certified herbalist is needed to determine what herbal medicines would be appropriate to help the patient function as well as possible and address overall health, rather than just the symptoms related to the prostate. If the overall health of the patient can be improved then the saw palmetto and other treatments will have a greater positive effect.
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