Saw Palmetto is a renowned plant-based medication with a plethora of medicinal properties. Native Americans relied on the palmetto plant for treating the symptoms of many ailments, including as a sleeping aid, diuretic, sedative, cough suppressant, for indigestion and urinary symptoms. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular supplements for men’s health, although women can also benefit.

Havasu Nutrition provides Saw Palmetto in both gummies and capsules, two easy ways to get your supplement for full strength. Here are five reasons men should consider adding Saw Palmetto to their daily health regimen:

Helps Urinary Track Function

Urinary tract symptoms such as incontinence and difficulty urinating are common as men get older. Saw Palmetto has been shown to improve urinary symptoms associated with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that causes the prostate gland to expand and results in decreased urine flow. In one study, men who took a daily dose of Saw Palmetto experienced decreased symptoms of BPH and improved urinary flow, quality of life, and sexual function. Research also shows that men, that after taking Saw Palmetto supplements, reduced their nighttime bathroom visits by about one trip per night.

Prevents Hair Loss

Hair loss can happen for many reasons, but one factor is changing hormone levels, typically associated with age. Saw Palmetto can help prevent hair loss because it helps bring hormones back in balance. DHT is responsible for hair loss, and Havasu Saw Palmetto contains DHT blockers that supports a hormone balance. Studies suggest that Saw Palmetto can help promote hair quantity, hair count, and hair density in people with hair loss.

Supports Prostate Health

One of the most well-researched uses for Saw Palmetto is to boost prostate health. In fact, Saw Palmetto has been used since the early 1700s to treat prostate inflammation. The prostate gland is responsible for maintaining sperm health and can become enlarged or inflamed as men get older. This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including bladder infections. Research also shows that Saw Palmetto may help fight against prostate cancer. In lab studies, it has shown action against prostate cancer cells and inhibits their growth.

Decreases Inflammation

Saw Palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help treat a variety of conditions. One study in mice with enlarged prostates observed that Saw Palmetto extract decreased swelling and several markers of inflammation.

Regulates Testosterone Levels & Vitality

Saw Palmetto is often used by men looking to naturally boost testosterone levels. Testosterone levels affect several aspects of health, including body composition, sex drive, mood and brain function. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline. Saw Palmetto helps decrease the activity of 5-alpha reductase — an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT — to help preserve testosterone levels. As noted previously in the example of hair improvement, Saw Palmetto helps block the uptake of DHT -- and decreases its ability to bind to androgen receptors by nearly 50%. In turn, this may help regulate testosterone levels. Saw Palmetto may also help boost men’s libido. One study revealed that men were much better able to have an erection—and as a result, felt better about their quality of life.

Where It Comes From

The Saw Palmetto palm tree is dwarf in nature and native to North America’s southeast region. It grows dark berries that contain large seeds. This fruit has been used through the ages by Native Americans for nutritional, sedative, diuretic, aphrodisiac and cough-inhibiting properties.

These days, those berries are eaten whole or dried and used to make tea. Saw Palmetto is dried and ground, and supplement form includes taking the oily of the fatty portions from the dried berries. Havasu’s supplement contains 500 mg of Saw Palmetto, and the gummies are natural raspberry flavor. If it’s for you or a man in the house, make this a staple.