Except palmitic acid inhibited 5a-reductase activity. In conclusion, lauric acid, oleic acid, myristic acid, and linoleic acid, major constituents of SPE, exerted binding activities of alpha(1)-adrenergic, muscarinic and 1,4-DHP receptors and inhibited 5 alpha-reductase activity.
A variety of potential mechanisms of action of saw palmetto have been demonstrated through in vitro studies, including 5-alpha reductase inhibition, adrenergic receptor antagonism and intraprostatic androgen receptor blockade. Evidence suggests that saw palmetto may have a significant effect on urinary Row rates and symptom scores compared to placebo in men with lower urinary tract symptoms.
The SR groups compared with tumor group, the tumor weight was sign ificantly reduced. The tumor inhibition rate was significantly higher in high dose group. Compared with the blank group, the macro ma ohage activity decreased remark ablely. SR enhanced the macrophage activity obviously, positively related to doses of SR. Saw palmetto extract can strengthen the immune system.