Pygeum and saw palmetto are supplements used for prostate health, reducing swelling and inflammation in the prostate to relieve pressure on the urethra and allowing for a more normal flow of urine. Both supplements are recommended as preventative and effective treatment alternatives for benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
Pygeum and saw palmetto are supplements used for prostate health. As men age, the prostate gland can enlarge, constricting the urethra and blocking the flow of urine. Numerous studies have indicated that the berry-like fruit of saw palmetto and the bark of the pygeum tree are effective in reducing swelling and inflammation in the prostate. Pygeum and saw palmetto work to relieve pressure on the urethra, allowing for a more normal flow of urine.
Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to the coastal regions of the southeastern United States. The pulp of the fruit has been used as a tonic since the 19th century to strengthen the body and is mainly used today to benefit the prostate gland. It has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, making it effective for symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
The efficacy of saw palmetto supplements in reducing prostate enlargement has been shown in clinical trials. Although it is prescribed for an enlarged prostate in some countries, in others it is available as a supplement and sold without a prescription. The exact method of its operation is not fully understood. Some research indicates that components of saw palmetto may reduce the negative effects of hormones on the prostate. Its diuretic actions increase the flow of urine.
Native to Africa, the pygeum tree is a small evergreen tree. The bark of the tree is harvested and used primarily to alleviate the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. There is some concern that the tree may become endangered in the wild, and the scarcity has led to the development of commercial tree farming. Until this is fully established, some herbalists recommend using pygeum only after other herbs have been tried without success.
Clinical trials have shown that pygeum bark extract provides positive benefits for an enlarged prostate. It is prescribed for the condition in some countries, while in others it is available as a dietary supplement. The bark extract appears to work by increasing gland secretions, lowering cholesterol in the gland, and blocking the negative effects of testosterone on the prostate.
Taking pygeum and saw palmetto along with other nutrients and herbs may help reduce symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Additional recommended supplements are nettle, horsetail, and pumpkin seeds. Many herbs that have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties are also used. Nutrients found to be helpful include zinc, selenium, omega-3 essential fatty acids, and the red pigment in tomatoes and other fruits called lycopene.
An enlarged prostate usually begins to affect men in their 40s. Symptoms include difficulty urinating, feeling pressure, and frequent urges to urinate. Late-night trips to the bathroom may also increase. Enlargement of the prostate not caused by cancer or inflammation due to infection is known as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Both pygeum and saw palmetto are recommended as preventative supplements, as well as effective treatment alternatives.
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