Using Saw Palmetto and Acne Prevention

With acne being one of the most common problems among teenagers, as well as grown adults, many people have been trying to search out a miracle cure, or any remedy to help them battle this overwhelming problem. Many people are claiming that saw palmetto is this miracle cure. There are many myths, or old wives' tales, associated with acne. These can include:

The consumption of chocolate causes acne.
Spicy, or greasy, foods cause acne.
Drinking too much soda causes acne.

However, these claims do not have any credentials. None of the above has ever been proven to actually be a culprit in regards to cases of acne.

On the other hand, research studies have successfully established that one of the major cause of acne is hormonal changes, with heredity playing a key role in the severity of the acne, as well as what type of acne a person may develop. You may be wondering how saw palmetto and acne relate to one another. It all relates back to the main cause of acne -- hormones, particularly testosterone.

Because we know conclusively, through scientific study, that saw palmetto is effective in conversion of testosterone into DHT, experts are able to logically assume, or theorize, that saw palmetto can be used to effectively treat acne by lowering testosterone levels in the body. However, scientific research has yet to establish a link between saw palmetto and acne, or the effects saw palmetto may have in regards to acne. We can only go by theory.

As mentioned, it is saw palmetto's proven effectiveness in treating benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH, that leads professionals to believe in its effectiveness to treat acne. Research studies have conclusively shown the effectiveness of saw palmetto in inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Because of these studies, professionals have made many assumptions, and have developed many theories when it comes to saw palmetto and acne. They assume since saw palmetto has been proven effective in reducing hormone levels, and increased hormone levels are what causes acne, this herb could be the cure.

If you are considering the use of saw palmetto to treat your acne, there is an important factor you should keep in mind. Although this herb has built a good reputation for itself, and has been proven to contain beneficial components, no conclusive studies have been conducted in relation to saw palmetto and acne. For now it is being categorized as a dietary supplement, which means it is not regulated.

In conclusion, saw palmetto and acne are only linked through professional theories and assumptions. It is important to remember that the total effects saw palmetto could have on your body are still not fully understood. As with any dietary supplement, before taking it, you should first consult with your doctor.