Saw Palmetto PCOS
Saw palmetto – scientifically known as Serenoa repens – is a palm tree commonly found in Florida and other south-eastern states of America. It has been used in medicine for hundreds of years. From the plant, supplements using the herb, extract, and berry are made that are capable of inhibiting androgens, or male hormones - a key indicator of PCOS in women. But what does this mean?
Well, seeing as many of the symptoms you're likely experiencing are being driven by high levels of androgen hormones, saw palmetto can help to lower these androgen levels thus improving many of your symptoms. This is why saw palmetto is such a popular supplement for women with PCOS.
So how does saw palmetto work?
It’s thought to work by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) - one of the most potent androgens, and is a major proponent in the masculine-presenting symptoms of PCOS. The most common symptoms include hair loss, facial hair growth, acne, and menstrual irregularities.
One study found that a high DHT to testosterone ratio is present in those diagnosed with PCOS, so any treatments that are able to normalise that ratio will help ease the condition.
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