A-Z men's wellness Articles

What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw Palmetto is a small palm tree native to the southeastern United States, known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves and berries. The berries, rich in fatty acids and phytosterols, have been used traditionally in herbal medicine. Today, it is commonly taken as a supplement to support prostate health, urinary function, and hormonal balance, making it a popular natural remedy for men's health.

How Does Saw Palmetto Work in the Body?

In many cases, this herb relieves the symptoms of prostate enlargement just as well as conventional medication. Prostate growth is stimulated by excess levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This supplement works by inhibiting the production of DHT, stopping DHT from binding in the prostate and increasing the rate at which DHT is metabolized in the gland.

Excess estrogen slows the removal of DHT from the prostate. By inhibiting, estrogen, these berries also improves BPH. It has been shown in clinical studies to decrease the size of the prostate without altering PSA levels (the hormone that is a marker for prostate cancer).

Taking Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto’s medicinal qualities are most abundant in fat-soluble extracts of the berries. This herb can vary in quality and medicinal value, and it should be taken with meals that contain fat to improve its absorption.

Important Information

Prior to using saw palmetto, men should have a prostate screening and laboratory testing for prostate cancer. Men who use conventional BPH medications should use this herb under the guidance of a health professional. Thie supplement can theoretically affect the efficacy of oral contraceptives and estrogen.

Small-flowered willow herb, often overlooked, is a resilient plant that thrives in the wild across numerous regions worldwide. Its easy cultivation and low cost mean it hasn't attracted as much commercial research or media attention as other herbs. However, this does not diminish its remarkable benefits. Known for its supportive role in promoting prostate health, this herb is invaluable for men's wellness. Additionally, concentrated supplements can enhance their effectiveness, making them an accessible and potent option. Join us as we delve into the myriad ways small-flowered willow will can support your health and well-being. 

What is Small Flowered Willow Herb?

Small-flowered willow (Epilobium parviflorum) is a perennial herb with delicate pink flowers. Traditionally grown in Europe, it is often prescribed for prostate health by practitioners in Germany and Austria.

In the world of herbal history, this herb few mentions. It was only seen in Pharmacopoeia in 1880 before it was made popular in 1982 by Austrian herbalist Maria Treben. While there have only been a few research studies on small-flowered willow, there are numerous herbalists who report positive clinical experience with small-flowered willow.

Benefits and Uses of Small Flowered Willow Herb

Herbalists recommend small-flowered willow as a prostate tonic and use it for all disorders of the prostate, including prostatitis (infection of the prostate), BPH (enlargement of the prostate) and prostate cancer. It is also used for women suffering from urinary tract infections because it has a cleansing and antimicrobial action on the genitourinary system.

How Do Herbs Work?

Small-flowered willow works as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and has high antioxidant activity that acts on the genitourinary system. It's considered a prostate tonic because of its more direct action on the prostate. Small-flowered willow contains a plant sterol called B-sitosterol, which is also found in saw palmetto, a well-known herb used for prostate concerns. Like saw palmetto, small-flowered willow works as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, which means it prevents testosterone from being converted to dihydrotestosterone. This is important because dihydrotestosterone is a strong, stimulating form of testosterone, which can cause prostate enlargement or cancer when it is too high.

How To Use Small Flowered Willow Herb

Traditionally, small-flowered willow is taken as a tea throughout the day. Add one teaspoon of herb per cup of boiled water and let it steep for 10-15 mins. You can also find small flowered willow in encapsulated dried herb, tincture and liquid extract. Extracts tend to be stronger; however, most herbalists prescribe the tea form.

To find more medicinal herbs, check out our selection of the best-selling herbs in Canada.