Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto [∞]

Saw Palmetto

Alternate Names: Serenoa repens, American dwarf palm tree, Sabal palm

Chart of Uses:

Use	Description	Index
Prostate Health	Saw palmetto is most commonly used to support prostate health and alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Hormonal Balance	May help balance hormones, particularly in men, and support healthy testosterone levels
Urinary Health	Can support urinary tract function and reduce urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate
Hair Loss Prevention	Often used to prevent hair loss, particularly in cases of androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness)
Anti-Inflammatory	Contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially useful for conditions like arthritis

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Warnings:

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Saw palmetto should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential hormonal effects.
2. Hormonal Conditions: Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., breast cancer, ovarian cancer) should avoid saw palmetto, as it may interfere with hormone levels.
3. Blood Thinning: Saw palmetto may have mild blood-thinning properties, so it should be used cautiously with anticoagulant medications.
4. Surgery: Because of its potential blood-thinning effects, saw palmetto should be discontinued at least two weeks before any surgery.
5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort.

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Active Compounds:

1. Fatty Acids and Sterols: Saw palmetto contains fatty acids (e.g., lauric acid) and plant sterols (e.g., β-sitosterol), which are believed to play a role in inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to prostate enlargement and hair loss.
2. Flavonoids: Contribute to saw palmetto’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
3. Polysaccharides: Present in saw palmetto, these may support immune function and overall health.
4. Triterpenoid Compounds: May contribute to the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties.

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Natural Sources:

1. Saw Palmetto Berries (Serenoa repens): The primary natural source of the active compounds, found in the berries of the saw palmetto plant, which is native to the southeastern United States.
2. Saw Palmetto Extract| Often used in supplements, the extract is concentrated from the berries and provides a higher dose of active compounds.
3. Saw Palmetto Tea: Made by infusing dried saw palmetto berries, though less common than other forms like capsules or extracts.