What is the evidence supporting the use of saw palmetto as a treatment for the prostate?
Of the approximately thirty plant-derived compounds that exist for alleviating the symptoms of BPH, the saw palmetto extract is the most widely used and studied. Most of the saw palmetto studies have been conducted in Europe. Recently, a systematic review of 18 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 2,939 men was published. The trials used either saw palmetto by itself or in combination with other herbal treatments. The effectiveness of these agents was compared to a placebo (an inactive or inert substance) or one of the conventional drug therapies for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The researchers looked at the following: (1) urinary symptoms such as hesitancy; (2) the number of times a night that a patient arose to urinate; (3) the average urine rate of flow; and (4) the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after voiding (urinating). Changes resulting from the use of this herbal agent in these four areas were compared to placebo results to determine if an improvement oc
Pubmed describes over 200 studies of saw palmetto on prostate health. For the major part, these show a positive benefit on saw palmetto for prostate health. But a bioactive compound derived from saw palmetto called beta sitosterol is more potent than saw palmetto. Beta sitosterol is a plant fat and has been studied for the past 2 decades. It has established benefits for lowering cholesterol and for improving urinary flow and functions associated with an aging prostate. The Super Beta Prostate formula contains beta sitosterol along with essential minerals and Vitamin D – all vital for maintaining healthy prostate functions.
