Saw Palmetto

(Serenoa repens)

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a low-growing palm tree with sharp, saw-like leaf stalks and deep red berries. It grows in warm climates, such as those in the southeastern U.S. and California. Extracts of its berries have been shown to promote healthy prostate function, including proper flow and frequency of urination.

Prostate complications are believed to be caused by an increase in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate. DHT stimulates the production of prostate cells, which may lead to overproduction and enlargement of the prostate (hyperplasia). Studies indicate that saw palmetto may inhibit DHT production as well as promote its breakdown. Saw palmetto is also reported to have antiestrogenic effects, which is beneficial because estrogen interferes with the elimination of DHT from the prostate.

Studies have shown that saw palmetto may:

By blocking the same enzymes that contribute to prostate complications, saw palmetto may also help reduce hair loss, though more research is needed to confirm this effect. DHT is required for the development of androgenic alopecia (male/female pattern hair loss), so saw palmetto's potential blocking of DHT may promote hair health.