September 28, 1998 – A study published in the medical journal Urology has just concluded that sabal bay (Serenoa repens) is an agent that can significantly improve lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, but researchers were unable to demonstrate significant improvement in urinary tract obstruction.
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of sabal berry on bladder emptying and to measure the urodynamic parameters of men with symptoms of the lower urinary tract, presumably the result of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The researchers recruited 50 men with a minimum score of 10 on the International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) who were treated for 6 months with 160 mg daily of a commercial sabal berry extract. Measurements were taken every two months.
The results indicated an improvement in the mean IPSS score from 19.5 (+ -5.5) to 12.5 (+ -7.0). As the study progressed, the percentage of men noting an improvement in their symptoms greater than 50% increased from 21% after 2 months, to 30% after 4 months and to 46% after 6 months. On the other hand, the researchers could not demonstrate any significant change in the maximum urine flow, the volume of residual urine or the average quantity of prostate specific antigens (PSA).
The researchers concluded that there was a need for further studies with a placebo group on the Serenoa repens and on the Serenoa repens in conjunction with other herbal preparations (such as Pygeum africanum) traditionally used to treat BPH if we want to rigorously assess the effectiveness of herbal preparations for the treatment of this common health problem.
HealthPassport.net
Gerber GS, Zagaja GP, Bales GT, Chodak GW, Contreras BA. Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms: effects on urodynamic parameters and voiding symptoms. Urology. 1998; 51: 1003-1007.
Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, vol. 4, no. 5, September 1998
