A just released study validates prior investigations that Saw Palmetto combined with Beta Sitosterol, despite it’s hair growth properties, actually enhances male function and raises testosterone. Saw Palmetto supplementation has established in several studies to produce a hair growth effect. One study compared the hair growth effects of Saw Palmetto to Finasteride (Propecia) and found that although finasteride was slightly better, Saw Palmetto Extract by itself did in fact produce hair growth. This just published paper, which will feature in this update found that the combination of Saw Palmetto Extract, and Beta Sitosterol not only inhibits 5 alpha reductase, which is the mechanism by which it grows hair, but actually increases free testosterone and unlike Finasteride (Propecia), enhances male sexual function.
A double blind, placebo-controlled randomized comparative study on the efficacy of phytosterol-enriched and conventional saw palmetto oil in mitigating benign prostate hyperplasia and androgen deficiency Abstract Background: The present clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a standardized saw palmetto oil containing 3% β-sitosterol in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and androgen deficiency. Methods: Subjects aged 40-65 years with symptomatic BPH were randomized to 12-week double-blind treatment with 500 mg doses of β-sitosterol enriched saw palmetto oil, conventional saw palmetto oil and placebo orally in the form of capsules (n = 33 in each group). BPH severity was determined using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), uroflowmetry, serum measurement of prostate specific antigen (PSA), testosterone and 5α-reductase. During the trial, the androgen deficiency was evaluated using Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) scale, the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) questionnaire, serum levels of free testosterone. Results: Subjects treated with β-sitosterol enriched saw palmetto oil showed significant decrease in IPSS, AMS and ADAM scores along with reduced postvoiding residual volume (p < 0.001), PSA (p < 0.01) and 5α-reductase from baseline to end of 12-week treatment as compared to placebo. There was also a significant increase in the maximum and average urine flow rate (p < 0.001), and serum free testosterone level of subjects treated with enriched saw palmetto oil as compared to placebo. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the efficacy of β-sitosterol enriched saw palmetto oil superior to conventional oil thus extending the scope of effective BPH and androgen deficiency treatment with improved quality of life through the intake of functional ingredients. The “AMS” score stands for Aging Male Symptoms”. The ADAM score stands for Androgen deficiency in Aging Male This is significant because many men rightfully forego finasteride use due to its well established, permanent in some, sexual side effects, including breast enlargement, loss of libido and erectile dysfunction. Several studies have concluded that in a significant subset of Propecia users, these side effects may indefinitely persist AFTER discontinuation. Although finasteride does generally halt the progression of MPB, and grow a modest amount of hair in most, the ever increasing published accounts of side effects understandably cause many to decline its usage. Unfortunately, since Saw Palmetto has for many years, been advertised as a “Propecia Alternative,” many make the mistake of assuming that Saw Palmetto has the same side effects, or is somehow “anti-androgenic” which couldn’t be further from the truth. For several years now, we have been correctly touting the DHT and Estrogen lowering and testosterone increasing effects of the combination of Saw Palmetto and Astaxanthin. In fact, this combination was patented specifically as a treatment for middle aged men, and named “ReSettin” as in re-setting or optimizing the hormone profile for libido, muscle mass, prostate function and yes, hair growth. Saw Palmetto Astaxanthin combination raises Testosterone and Reduces DHT
Using the combination of Palmetto Guard and Astaxanthin w/phospholipids, 1 soft gel a day each, will both promote hair growth, and function to increase libido and Muscle Mass. The other botanical extract that produces identical effects on the hormone system that favors hair growth is Theaflavin or Black tea Extract.