Saw Palmetto

The saw palmetto typically grows in the southeastern part of the United States in addition to Africa and parts of southern Europe. This tree in the palm family has pretty flowers that bloom white in the spring and summer months and also produces fruit. These saw palmetto berries are the size of large grapes and grow in clusters. The fruit is picked when ripe, a dark blue color. From there, the saw palmetto berries are dried to use for a variety of medicines and herbal remedies.

Benefits Of Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto contains some important fatty acids and sterols. The most common saw palmetto benefits are for prostate health. The fatty acids prevent testosterone from converting to DHT, a hormone responsible for inflammation of this gland. It doesn’t work for everyone, but it does provide relief of symptoms for a significant amount.

Other effects of saw palmetto include usage as an antiseptic, a diuretic and even an anti-inflammatory. While there is no clinical research supporting this claim, some people say that saw palmetto for hair loss is a great treatment. And saw palmetto as a medicine is common for the prostate as mentioned above as well as several other things.

Saw palmetto for women is suggested for various applications. For one, saw palmetto enlarges the breast supposedly. In addition, it has been beneficial for menstruation pains and menopausal symptoms. The saw palmetto oil can be rubbed into the scalp and left overnight to stimulate hair growth or can be used as a skin conditioner and softener.

Side Effects Of Taking Saw Palmetto

As with anything else you take, there are some saw palmetto side effects that you should be aware of. It can cause headaches and dizziness. It has also been known to contribute to nausea and stomach pain. However, keep in mind that this occurs with the minority of people who take it, typically in supplement form.

If your saw palmetto dosage causes any of the above side effects, cut the dosage in half and take it twice a day. Or find out how to make saw palmetto tea. The effects of this herbal remedy are still there, just no in a concentrated form. And while there is no real data as to what a saw palmetto overdose would be, do not take more than the prescribed amount in the instructions. And, please consult with your doctor before taking saw palmetto to ensure that it will not conflict with any current medications you may be taking.