With a history of medicinal use by Native Americans in the Southeastern United States, saw palmetto's current use is primarily as a supplement to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. It's generally considered to be safe, but may interfere with some medications, and medical concerns should be discussed with your health care provider to rule out serious conditions such as prostate cancer.
Description
The saw palmetto, also known as Serenoa repens and Sabal serrulata, is a type of palm that's native to the Southeastern United States. Its leaves, which vary from green to silvery-white, are attached to a stalk containing sharp teeth or spines. The saw palmetto grows white flowers and produces berries that are dried and used for medicinal purposes.
Phytosterols
Saw palmetto contains two of the most common phytosterols found in the human diet, beta-sitosterol and campesterol. Phytosterols are compounds found in plants that have a structure similar to cholesterol, but that actually lower cholesterol by inhibiting its absorption. Phytosterols may also lower the risk of cancer. Beta-sitosterol helps reduce the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia in doses of 60-130 mg/day, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are a group of compounds found in fruits, vegetables and other plants that function in a variety of roles. While they are effective antioxidants, most flavonoids circulating throughout the body have less effect than other more common antioxidants such as vitamin C. Many of their health benefits are more likely due to their ability to regulate processes at the cellular level, including cell growth and death, notes the Linus Pauling Institute. Through this role, flavonoids may reduce inflammation, prevent cancer and lower the chance of cardiovascular disease.
Fatty Acids
Saw palmetto contains a variety of fatty acids, such as capric, lauric, myristic, palmitic and stearic acids. Capric acid is used to create slow-acting drugs. Lauric acid may have antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiviral properties and is sometimes used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. Combined with medications, myristic acid enables the drugs to be absorbed through the skin. Palmitic acid functions as a lubricant and binder, and is often used in butter and cheese flavorings. Stearic acid is used as an emulsifier in household products and in the production of shortening, spreads and baking products.
Warnings
Saw palmetto should not be taken by women who are pregnant, nursing or who are at a risk for hormone-related cancers. It may interfere with blood-thinning medications and may make oral contraceptives less effective. Always consult your health care provider before taking saw palmetto.
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