Does Saw Palmetto Increase Estrogen: Know the Truth
Saw palmetto is a plant that may affect the Estrogen level in the body.
But do you know how does saw palmetto increase Estrogen?
It contains compounds like Phytosterols, Flavanoids, and Isoflavones that may increase Estrogen.
There is no evidence of such a relationship, but some studies believe saw palmetto affects Estrogen levels.
In this article, we will learn about saw palmetto’s effect on Estrogen levels with its side effects and precautions to be taken.
Does saw palmetto increase Estrogen
Saw palmetto has been associated with directly stimulating Estrogenic receptors in the body while inhibiting Progesterone receptors.
Saw palmetto also contains Phytosterols that inhibit 5-alpha reductase, reducing the Androgen action.
This mechanism in women helps restore a balance between Estrogen and Androgen levels.
However, not all studies believe that saw palmetto inhibits 5-alpha reductase or has anti-Andrgen action.
Flavonoids present in saw palmetto are also associated with estrogenic activity and can increase Estrogen in the body.
However, currently, there are not enough studies to prove this fact.
Furthermore, Estrogen may also positively affect Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Dosage of saw palmetto
The dosage may vary from 320 to 960 mg/day.
It is advised to stay within the recommended dosage per day.
Or, you can take 1-2 g/day of crude saw palmetto.
You can also consult your doctor before administering supplements to avoid serious complications.
Side effects
After clinical trials, there was no evidence of serious toxicity of saw palmetto.
However, there are a few mild side effects that people may face after using them, such as:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
Among severe cases, long-term use of saw palmetto may cause:
- Pancreas problems
- Liver problems
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Low sex drive
- Gynecomastia
Precautions
Saw palmetto may cause allergies, side effects, and other potential problems from individual to individual.
It may also influence hormones in the body.
So, people who are at higher risk of Hormone-sensitive cancer must be cautious before consuming it.
Moreover, Estrogen plays a vital role in men’s Prostate gland growth.
But excessive Estrogen may lead to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Also, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid its use. Breastfeeding may pass it to the infant through milk.
Therefore, you should consult your doctor before taking any supplements and take the prescribed dose only.
Conclusion:
Saw palmetto can increase Estrogen levels in the body.
However, currently, there are not enough studies to prove this fact.
Saw palmetto has Phytosterols and Flavanoids that may affect Estrogen levels.
It is associated with causing stimulation of Estrogenic receptors in the body and inhibiting Progesterone receptors.
In women, it also restores the hormonal balance by reducing Androgen actions.
Also, Estrogen and saw palmetto may have a link that may affect BPH.
For dosage, you may take 320 to 980 mg/day or more as recommended by the doctor.
Even though saw palmetto is a herb, it may cause side effects such as vomiting, headache, dizziness, and severe problems like Pancreatic problems.
Also, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid its use for safety purposes.
Furthermore, people at risk of Hormone-sensitive cancer should consult their doctor before consuming saw palmetto supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does saw palmetto increases Estrogen?
Saw palmetto may increase Estrogen in the body as it contains Flavanoids and Phytosterols in it. There is some evidence in regulating hormones. It may show an Estrogen-like effect and control the Testosterone level in the body. Also, it may affect Estrogen receptors in the body and inhibit Progesterone directly.
Does saw palmetto balance Estrogen?
Yes, saw palmetto may balance Estrogen with the male hormone. Saw palmetto may directly stimulate the Estrogen receptors in the body and also work as an anti-Androgen to balance the hormonal level. Phytosterol in saw palmetto inhibits an enzyme and reduces Androgen actions.
Is saw palmetto good for hormones?
Yes, saw palmetto is good for hormones. It is evident that saw palmetto may regulate female hormones and have Estrogen-like effects on the body. It may be beneficial in balancing the Testosterone effects on the body. However, to avoid complications, you should consult your doctor before consuming saw palmetto supplements.
How much saw palmetto should you take?
The dosage for consuming saw palmetto may vary from 320 to 960 mg/day. Or, it may exceed to 1-2 g/day of crude saw palmetto. You can take the recommended dosage per day. Still, visiting your doctor and asking for the dose you should take is advised. It may minimize the chances of side effects.
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