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Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens syn. Sabal serrulata)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Palmaceae
  • Common Names: Saw Palmetto, Sabal
  • Parts Used: Berries

Description

Saw palmetto is a small, slow-growing palm native to the southeastern United States. Its dark berries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support reproductive health, particularly for male hormonal balance and urinary tract issues.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by Native American tribes as a food source and as a remedy for urinary and reproductive issues.
  • Traditionally employed in European herbal medicine for prostate health and to alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
  • Historically used to improve libido and address hormonal imbalances.

Constituents

  • Fatty acids
  • Phytosterols (beta-sitosterol)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Polysaccharides

Actions

  • Antiandrogenic
  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antispasmodic
  • Hormone-regulating
  • Aphrodisiac

Medicinal Uses

1. Prostate Health:
Saw palmetto is widely used to support prostate health, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) such as frequent urination and incomplete emptying of the bladder.

2. Hormonal Balance:
It helps regulate testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, supporting overall male reproductive health and reducing hair loss associated with high DHT.

3. Urinary Tract Support:
Saw palmetto’s diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties help relieve urinary tract infections and improve urine flow.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Relief:
Its anti-inflammatory effects make it useful for conditions such as prostatitis and other inflammatory disorders of the reproductive or urinary system.

5. Sexual Health:
Traditionally used to improve libido and sexual vitality, particularly in men.

6. Hair Loss Management:
Due to its ability to block DHT, saw palmetto is used as a natural remedy for androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness).

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

  • 1-2 tsp of dried saw palmetto berries per cup of water. Simmer for 15-20 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of saw palmetto tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • 300-600 mg of standardized extract per dose, taken 1-2 times daily.

Oil:

  • Used externally for scalp massage to support hair growth.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Hormonal Conditions: Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if dealing with hormone-sensitive conditions.
  • Medication Interactions: May interact with anticoagulants, hormone therapies, or medications for prostate conditions.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Warming and grounding, saw palmetto helps restore balance in cases of stagnation and hormonal excess.
  • Ayurvedic: Balances excess vata and pitta, supporting reproductive and urinary health.

Combinations

  • For Prostate Health: Combine with nettle root and pygeum.
  • For Hormonal Balance: Combine with licorice and ginseng.
  • For Hair Loss: Combine with rosemary and horsetail.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Berries are harvested in late summer or early autumn when fully ripe.
  • Drying: Dry the berries in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried berries or powdered extracts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies have confirmed saw palmetto’s effectiveness in supporting prostate health, managing BPH symptoms, and reducing DHT levels. Ongoing research is exploring its role in hair loss prevention and hormonal regulation.

Saw palmetto remains a key herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering support for male reproductive health, urinary function, and hormonal balance.