Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a dwarf palm tree that belongs to the family Arecaceae. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Native Americans traditionally utilized the berries of saw palmetto to treat diseases and ailments. Some research indicates that saw palmetto can help to manage aspects of male reproductive health, including prostate problems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Research has shown that saw palmetto can slow down 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). An androgen hormone that regulates the development of male characteristics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The production of androgen hormones occurs in the testes, ovaries, and adrenal glands. These hormones are also responsible for the development of male characteristics in puberty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By slowing down 5-alpha reductase, saw palmetto may reduce the effects of DHT as men get older.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the United States alone, approximately 2.5 million men use saw palmetto extract for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia<\/a> (BPH).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In men, testosterone levels increase from puberty through adulthood. However, it starts to progressive decline from the age of 40 onwards, as levels of estrogen<\/a> increase. This phenomenon has led to the creation of the term “andropause” to describe this decline in men. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A decreased level of the sex hormone testosterone is essential, as it is responsible for the three cardinal sexual symptoms in men: <\/p>\n\n\n\n In order to address these symptoms, many men are prescribed with testosterone replacement therapy<\/a> (TRT). The aim of TRT is to improve secondary sexual characteristics, sexual function and a sense of wellbeing. However, there are real concerns associated with the potential long-term safety of TRT. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Studies have shown that there is an increased risk of cardiovascular adverse events. These events could range from angina to a heart attack [5]. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Other potential side effects of TRT include fluid retention, acne, sleep apnea, infertility and gynecomastia<\/a> (the development of breast tissue) [6]. In view of this, natural therapies and dietary supplements such as saw palmetto represent an interesting option for men suffering from low testosterone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In this article, we discuss how saw palmetto can increase testosterone levels in men.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We also discuss the safety and performance of saw palmetto concerning testosterone levels. Finally, we look at the applications of saw palmetto<\/a> in other diseases commonly affecting men. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \n
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