Saw Palmetto

Seronoa repens

Botanical family: Arecacae
Parts used: Fruit
Main active constituents: Fatty acids, sterols
Actions: Reduces inflammation, boosts immunity
Good for: Prostate inflammation, improving urinary flow
Available forms: Tablet, tincture, herbal tea

Description

Growing wild in North America, this small scrubby palm tree, gets its name from the spiny saw-toothed stems that lie at the base of each of its leaves. With a lifespan of over 700 years, it can resist draught, fire and insect infestation. The red-brown-to-black berries, which are harvested in August and September, hold the secrets to its healing powers.

History

Saw palmetto berries have long been used by Native Americans for treating sexual problems and disorders of the urinary tract. It was also used as a general tonic and as an expectorant to soothe persistent coughs.

Current uses

For prostate gland problems

Standardised extracts of saw palmetto have become an accepted treatment for BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). BPH appears to be triggered by abnormally high levels of the male hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in prostate tissue. Research shows that saw palmetto works by reducing absorption of these hormones within the prostate gland, while reducing inflammation and swelling. It can also help other symptoms of BPH such as having to go the loo more often, especially at night, weak urinary flow and difficulty in emptying the bladder completely.

For urinary tract infections

Saw palmetto may help to boost the immune system’s ability to kill bacteria so can be taken for urinary tract infections.

How to take it

• You need to take a standardised extract every day ,equivalent to 3 grams of saw palmetto fruit.
• Saw palmetto can be taken on an ongoing basis or for as long as you have symptoms.
• Expect to take saw palmetto for six to eight weeks before noticing improvement in symptoms.
• Saw palmetto can be taken with other supplements and there is no evidence that it interacts with prescribed medications at the recommended dosage.

Watchpoints

• An enlarged prostate can be a sign of prostate cancer so always consult your doctor before taking this herb for BPH, especially if you find blood in your urine or find urination difficult.
• Side effects are uncommon but can include abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness and headache. If you experience any of these symptoms you should stop taking the herb immediately.
• Although women are unlikely to take this herb, they should be aware that it has hormonal effects so should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.