Saw Palmetto and Nettle Root for Prostate Health: What the Evidence Shows

Saw palmetto and Nettle Root are two of the more popular supplements targeting symptoms of prostate enlargement and urinary flow difficulty. Do they work? Are they safe? What are the ways that they work, and what does the research tell us?

Saw palmetto

Is a plant derived product that has the effect of blocking 5-alpha reductase.

5-alpha reductase is the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT binds with androgen receptors in the prostate gland and is felt to be a contributor to prostatic hypertrophy. Gradual growth of the prostate gland can eventually obstruct urine flow.

This is the same mechanism of action that prescription drugs finasteride (Proscar) and Dutasteride (Avodart) use in order to shrink prostate glands. The prescription drugs can gradually shrink the prostate gland over months thereby alleviating urinary obstructive symptoms.

People perceive saw palmetto as being a safer alternative less likely to cause negative effects.

That is likely because it is a much weaker DHT blocking substance.

Of course the problem with blocking DHT is that it can interfere with sexual function. Some men using the prescription drugs have experienced loss of erections and decreased libido, in some cases permanently. Those effects have not been reported with saw palmetto. However as a standalone supplement the research is not that encouraging.

I do not advise it as a single agent, but it may be helpful when used in combination with other supplements. A common dose for saw palmetto is 450 mg per day.

Nettle root

Also known as Stinging Nettle (because of the small hair-like structures on the plant that can pierce the skin and create a stinging sensation) is a fascinating plant substance that has been utilized for thousands of years to treat a wide array of conditions.

It's been used for arthritis, hayfever, lowering blood pressure and improving blood sugar. Its primary benefit seems to come from its anti-inflammatory qualities. Nettle root is one of the more strongly validated supplements in the medical literature with regard to urinary flow.

A study published in the Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy in 2005 demonstrated that 81% of men using the supplement had an improvement in their flow symptoms versus 16% using a placebo. Side effects were rare.The dosage range for stinging nettle is 500 to 1000 mg per day.

The combination

Combining thoughtful use of supplements with lifestyle modification targeting inflammation reduction can make a huge impact on urinary flow. Avoiding pro-inflammatory foods, chief among them those consisting of simple carbohydrates like bread, pasta and rice can be helpful.

Reduction in percent body fat, even just 10 pounds can make a huge difference since fat cells produce inflammatory cytokines. Anything that amplifies inflammation can have a negative effect on urinary flow.

I've seen men acquire an upper respiratory infection and suddenly have near total obstruction.

Whenever flying special caution should be taken. High altitude causes ultraviolet exposure which is a pro-inflammatory event that has caused some men with borderline flow issues to become obstructed.

The takeway

One of the nice things about saw palmetto and stinging nettle is that they can be combined safely with other supplements to control inflammation. Whatever you choose to do, remember that the results may be gradual, and the effort needs to be continuous.

Men do not cure a large prostate, they manage it.

Properly managed with lifestyle, and supplements, and if needed prescription medicines can provide years of symptom relief and avoid surgical procedures.