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Saw Palmetto/Pygeum/Nettle

Description

Saw palmetto and pygeum Africanus, which are well-referenced for male prostate support, can be mixed with nettle leaf to comprise a great support product for this gland.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) - Improvements in prostate volume - Urinary frequency and peak urinary flow rates) - Prostate disorders - Cystitis - Epididymitis - Male infertility - Impotence - Prostatitis

Clinical Applications/Research

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to the West Indies and the North American Atlantic coast. The most common therapeutic use for saw palmetto is for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlargement of the prostate gland. Saw palmetto inhibits an enzyme which prevents testosterone from being converted to a more potent hormone, dihydrotestosterone, implicated in the cause of BPH.

Pygeum Africanum

Pygeum africanum targets mostly the prostate, having beneficial effects on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) specifically, and has been shown to enhance prostate and bulbourethral gland secretions, in quantity and quality. Components of pygeum africanum also have antiinflammatory activity. The fatty acid components are similar to that of saw palmetto, and may explain why it also has a beneficial effect on BPH. Pygeum extract shows clinical significance of improvement in the symptoms of BPH (such as nocturnal frequency, difficulty in micturition, and incomplete bladder emptying) (Ann Urol 1984;18:193-195). Large doses of pygeum can result in gastrointestinal irritation in sensitive individuals.

Nettle Root

In Europe, nettle extracts are being employed in the treatment of urinary retention brought on by benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Clinical evidence supports this, and German health authorities allow it to be used for BPH (Zeitschrift fur Phytotherapie 1989; 10:175-178; Bundesanzeiger, Jan. 5, 1989; March 6, 1990). Studies of over 2000 men found nettle supplementation provided significant improvement in nighttime urination, prostate size and urination frequency. Nettle appears to decrease the need for nighttime urination and appears to reduce the obstruction of urinary flow.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Should not be taken by pregnant females. Large doses of pygeum can result in gastrointestinal irritation in sensitive individuals.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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