Saw Palmetto - the prostate herb

Saw palmetto contains certain phytosterols, substances that seem to curb prostate cell growth.  Clinical research in European countries have demonstrated the effectiveness of the saw palmetto and is the physician's first choice for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia in Germany and Austria.

Saw palmetto dietary supplements are primarily used to improve urinary flow and reduce the frequency and urgency of urination in men with prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH).  Saw palmetto is believed to inhibit the actions of testosterone on the prostate that cause prostate enlargement and interference with urinary flow.   Saw palmetto has also been used to treat bladder inflammation (cystitis), chronic bronchitis, laryngitis, and asthma-associated nasal inflammation, among other conditions

Saw palmetto is also used in natural breast enlargement pills, male pattern baldness pills, and natural forms of "viagra type" supplements.

If you are taking saw palmetto or any other over-the-counter treatments, tell your doctor in advance of taking a PSA test. Any drug-herbal or prescription may alter the results of a PSA test and thus make prostate cancer hard to diagnose.