Saw Palmetto is not just for men (widely known for it’s benefits for prostate health) it is also excellent for women.

Several countries in Europe currently use saw palmetto as an alternative medicine for BPH. Germany’s regulating authority of herbal medicines recently added saw palmetto to their approved list.

Here are the Benefits of Saw Palmetto For Women:

1. Treats bladder disorders: According to the National Center for Complementary Alternative Medicine, women who experience bladder disorders, such as urinary tract infections, may benefit from taking saw palmetto. Studies show that saw palmetto is beneficial for reducing inflammation of the bladder and soothing painful urination.

2. Blocks the overproduction of testosterone: Saw palmetto helps reverse hirsutism, which is the unusual growth of facial or body hair, particularly in women. This is usually caused by an overabundance of hormones in the body. Saw palmetto has the ability to block the overproduction of testosterone in the female body, which will alleviate unwanted hair.

3. Treats hair loss: Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is derived from the male hormone testosterone—it is also the primary cause of hair loss in men and women. When DHT builds up in the hair follicle, it causes a gradual thinning of the hair shaft. Depending on one’s tolerance to this hormone, effects can include minimal hair loss, hair thinning, or balding. Research shows that saw palmetto can block 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.

4. Treats acne: The same DHT hormone that leads to hair loss also has the ability to cause an excess of sebum in the skin. The increased production of oil on your skin increases the chances of clogged pores. This can lead to blackheads and acne. As mentioned above, saw palmetto can block 5-alpha-reductase.

5. Treats menopausal symptoms: During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, while the testosterone levels remain steady. Saw palmetto helps prevent weakening of the vaginal and uterine tissues, an uncomfortable side-effect menopausal women experience.

6. Reduces effects of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): This is an endocrine system condition that affects a woman’s hormones. It causes excess facial and body hair, trouble losing unwanted weight, irregular menstruation, and infertility. Testosterone imbalance is associated to this condition. Saw palmetto may help reduce the effects of these symptoms mainly because of its hormonal effects.

Saw Palmetto for hair loss... in men and women

Hair loss is linked to the hormone testosterone, as the conversion of this hormone into a molecule called DHT is the main culprit of hair loss. DHT causes hair folliciles to thin over time, eventually eliminating them completely. Researchers have found that the natural components of saw palmetto that block the enzyme work in a similar way to the synthetic ingredients in prescription hair loss medications.