Saw palmetto is a popular herbal supplement used to support prostate health. It is derived from the berries of the saw palmetto plant, which is native to the southeastern United States. Saw palmetto is widely used to improve symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, such as frequent trips to the bathroom, difficulty urinating, and low libido. In this article, we’ll cover the benefits of saw palmetto, the best saw palmetto brands, how to choose a saw palmetto supplement, and potential side effects to look out for.
What is Saw Palmetto?
Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement derived from the berries of the saw palmetto plant. It is native to the southeastern United States, and has been used for centuries to support prostate health. The active ingredients in saw palmetto are believed to be plant sterols, fatty acids, and flavonoids.
Benefits of Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is believed to help reduce symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. These symptoms include frequent trips to the bathroom, difficulty urinating, and low libido. It is also believed to help improve urinary flow and reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom. In addition, saw palmetto is believed to help reduce inflammation and may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Best Saw Palmetto Brands
When choosing a saw palmetto supplement, it is important to choose a high-quality brand. Some of the best saw palmetto brands include Nature’s Way, Now Foods, and Solaray. These brands use high-quality ingredients and have a long history of producing quality supplements.
How to Choose a Saw Palmetto Supplement
When choosing a saw palmetto supplement, it is important to look for one that is made from organic saw palmetto berries. It is also important to look for a supplement that contains at least 80% fatty acids, as this is believed to be the active ingredient in saw palmetto. Additionally, it is important to look for a supplement that is free from fillers, binders, and artificial ingredients.
Side Effects of Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is generally considered safe, but it can cause some side effects in some people. The most common side effects include nausea, upset stomach, and headaches. Additionally, saw palmetto may interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking a saw palmetto supplement.