MEN'S HEALTH

Saw Palmetto for Prostate Disorders

From the olive-sized berries of the saw palmetto tree comes a remedy for benign enlargement of the prostate gland. While harmless, this common condition (BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia) can interfere with the urine's exit from the bladder, causing frequent urination, nighttime awakenings, and other uncomfortable urinary symptoms. It's not clear what causes BPH. But as the millions of men who suffer from it can attest--more than half of men over 60 are affected--relief is welcome indeed.

The popularity of saw palmetto--so-named in recognition of the saw-toothed stems that lie at the base of each palm leaf--has waxed and waned over time. Until 1950, it was officially recognized in the United States as a drug for urinary and genital problems.. Europeans, on the other hand, have been steadfast in their enthusiasm for the prostate-healing gifts of this scrubby, native American palm tree (also known as Serenoa repensor S. serrulata). Herbalists worldwide have also recommended saw palmetto as a general tonic and remedy for persistent cough and digestive problems.

Health Benefits

Numerous test tube, animal, and human studies indicate that an oily compound in saw palmetto berries reduces the discomforts of a mild to moderately enlarged prostate. While the herb doesn't actually shrink this gland, it does appear to prevent it from getting any larger. How it accomplishes this remains a matter of debate. Research points to an anti-inflammatory action and an ability to inhibit the hormones (possibly including a form of testosterone) that cause prostate cells to multiply. Antiandrogenic (anti-male sex hormone) actions have also been implicated.

One of the great appeals of saw palmetto is its price: It typically costs about one-third to one-half that of the conventional BPH medications. And based on recent findings it also works faster and causes fewer cases of impotence and reduced libido than the conventional prostate drug, finasteride (Proscar). By affecting levels of cancer-promoting hormones it may even play a role in protecting against prostate cancer, although this requires further research. Finally, test tube studies indicate that the herb boosts the immune system's ability to kill bacteria, suggesting a potential treatment for prostate or urinary tract infections.

Specifically, saw palmetto may help to:

• Ease prostate problems. Saw palmetto relieves the major symptoms of BPH. Numerous studies have shown that it reduces the number of times a sufferer feels the urge to urinate (including at night, thus reducing the number of nighttime awakenings), increases maximum urine flow, and minimizes the sensation that the bladder has not emptied. Painful urination may lessen as well. A recent analysis of several small clinical trials of saw palmetto published in The Journal of the American Medical Association(JAMA) found that men given saw palmetto were twice as likely to report a lessening of symptoms than those given a placebo. Compared with a placebo, the herb improved urinary tract symptoms by about 25%.


• For prostate problems: Take 160 mg twice a day.

Guidelines for Use

To minimize the risk of stomach upset, take saw palmetto with breakfast and dinner.

Don't use a tea made from the dried herb; the plant's medicinal oils don't dissolve in water.

General Interaction

Although no specific interactions have been reported, it's wise to consult your doctor before combining saw palmetto and prescription drugs for prostate problems.

There are no known drugs or nutrient interactions associated with saw palmetto.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects of saw palmetto are relatively uncommon, although mild abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, and headache have been documented. Lower the dose or stop taking the herb if side effects occur.

Problems with reduced libido and impotence can develop. These reactions are still less likely than with prescription drugs for BPH, however.

Ailments	Dosage
Ageing	160 mg twice a day
Impotence	160 mg standardized extract twice a day or 1/2 tsp. liquid extract twice a day or 600 mg. freeze-
Prostate Problems	320 mg once a day or 160 mg twice a day of standardized extract or 1/2 tsp. liquid extract twice a day