Saw Palmetto vs Pygeum – Vitamins and Supplements Online Canada - Shop With Free Shipping
Menu
Menu

30% Off Sitewide! Boxing Week Sale Ends Dec 26, 11:59 PM - Discount at Checkout

Saw Palmetto vs Pygeum

by Vorst Canada

 Saw Palmetto vs Pygeum

 

Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment.  

 

Table of Contents

  • Introduction
  • What is Saw Palmetto?
  • What is Pygeum?
  • Evidence
  • Comparison
  • Conclusion

 

Saw Palmetto and Pygeum are two herbal supplements that have gained popularity for their potential health benefits. Both have been traditionally used to promote prostate health, and are commonly marketed as remedies for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate. While these two supplements share some similarities in terms of usage and mechanism of action, they also differ in many aspects. In this article, we will compare and contrast Saw Palmetto and Pygeum in terms of their history, active ingredients, health benefits, dosages, side effects, and scientific evidence.

 

What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw Palmetto is a small palm tree that grows in the southeastern United States. Its berries have been used by Native Americans for centuries to treat urinary and reproductive problems. Today, Saw Palmetto supplements are commonly used to support prostate health, relieve urinary symptoms, and improve hair growth.

History and Traditional Use

Saw Palmetto has a long history of traditional use among Native American tribes, who used it to treat various ailments such as coughs, digestive disorders, and urinary problems. In the late 19th century, European settlers started using Saw Palmetto for its potential benefits in treating prostate conditions. Today, Saw Palmetto is one of the most popular herbal supplements for prostate health.

Active Ingredients and Mechanism of Action

Saw Palmetto berries contain a variety of active ingredients, including fatty acids, phytosterols, and flavonoids. These compounds are believed to work together to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth. Saw Palmetto is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may further benefit prostate health.

Health Benefits and Uses

Saw Palmetto is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with BPH, such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and nocturia. Some studies suggest that Saw Palmetto may be as effective as prescription medications in reducing BPH symptoms. Additionally, Saw Palmetto may also improve hair growth in men with male pattern baldness.

Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety

The recommended dosage of Saw Palmetto varies depending on the product and the intended use. Generally, doses range from 160-320 mg per day, and may be taken with or without food. Saw Palmetto is considered safe for most people, although some may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset, headache, or dizziness.

Scientific Evidence

The scientific evidence on Saw Palmetto's efficacy for BPH is mixed. While some studies have found it to be effective, others have found no significant difference between Saw Palmetto and a placebo. However, the majority of studies suggest that Saw Palmetto is safe and well-tolerated.

 

What is Pygeum?

Pygeum is an evergreen tree that grows in African countries such as Cameroon and Madagascar. Its bark has been used by traditional healers to treat urinary and reproductive problems in men. Today, Pygeum supplements are commonly used to support prostate health and reduce symptoms of BPH.

History and Traditional Use

Pygeum has a long history of traditional use in African countries, where it has been used for centuries to treat various ailments such as malaria, fever, and urinary problems. In the 1960s, European scientists started investigating Pygeum's potential benefits for BPH, and today it is widely used in Europe and North America.

Active Ingredients and Mechanism of Action

Pygeum contains several active compounds, including phytosterols, triterpenes, and fatty acids. These compounds are believed to work together to inhibit the production of inflammation-causing prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to prostate growth.

Health Benefits and Uses

Pygeum is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with BPH, such as urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia. Some studies suggest that Pygeum may also improve sexual function and reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety

The recommended dosage of Pygeum varies depending on the product and the intended use. Generally, doses range from 50-200 mg per day, and may be taken with or without food. Pygeum is considered safe for most people, although some may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or headache.

Scientific Evidence

The scientific evidence on Pygeum's efficacy for BPH is mixed, with some studies suggesting that it may be effective in reducing symptoms and improving urinary flow, while others have found no significant difference between Pygeum and a placebo. However, Pygeum is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.

 

Comparison

Similarities between Saw Palmetto and Pygeum

Both Saw Palmetto and Pygeum are herbal supplements that have been traditionally used to promote prostate health and alleviate symptoms associated with BPH. Both supplements contain active compounds that are believed to inhibit prostate growth and reduce inflammation.

Differences between Saw Palmetto and Pygeum

Saw Palmetto is native to the southeastern United States, while Pygeum is native to Africa. Saw Palmetto berries contain fatty acids, phytosterols, and flavonoids, while Pygeum bark contains phytosterols, triterpenes, and fatty acids. Saw Palmetto is commonly used to improve hair growth, while Pygeum may improve sexual function. The scientific evidence on their efficacy for BPH is mixed, with some studies suggesting that Saw Palmetto may be as effective as prescription medications, while others have found no significant difference between Saw Palmetto or Pygeum and a placebo.

Which is Better?

There is no clear answer as to which supplement is better for BPH or overall prostate health. The choice may depend on individual preferences and factors such as cost, availability, and tolerance of potential side effects. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

 

Saw Palmetto and Pygeum are two herbal supplements that have gained popularity for their potential health benefits, particularly for prostate health and BPH. While both supplements share some similarities in terms of usage and mechanism of action, they also differ in many aspects. The scientific evidence on their efficacy for BPH is mixed, and the choice of supplement may depend on individual preferences and factors. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

 

 Here you can see Vorst’s Saw Palmetto 320 Mg Capsules.  

 

References and Resources

Back to Articles