How does Saw Palmetto work and could it be a better alternative to the drug Tamsulosin?

Saw palmetto extracts have been shown to possess a variety of physiological actions – the one that is most relevant to its use in men with an enlarged prostate is as an inhibitor of 5-alpha-reductase. 

5-alpha-reductase is invovled in the inflammation process, so reducing this can help to reduce inflammation in the prostate, which can help to reduce a number of symptoms.

There is also believed to be a relationship between the oils from the Saw Palmetto berries and hormone levels in men.

Saw Palmetto may be used as an alternative to Tamsulosin if given the go ahead by your doctor.