Saw palmetto is a unique, dwarf palm tree native to the southeastern regions of North America. It produces dark, berry-like fruits that contain large seeds. Historically, Native Americans have used these berries for their wide range of health benefits, including their nutritional, diuretic, sedative, aphrodisiac, and cough-relieving properties. In modern times, saw palmetto berries are commonly consumed either whole or dried, and they are also used to brew tea. The dried berries are often ground into powder and sold in capsule or tablet form, but they are most commonly available as oily extracts from the fatty portions of the berries. These extracts are rich in essential plant compounds, including vitamin E and potent antioxidants. Depending on the extraction method, these supplements can contain between 75% and 90% fats, which contribute to their health-promoting properties.

1. May Support Prostate Health
The prostate is a small but essential gland located between the bladder and the penis in men, and it plays a critical role in sperm health. Saw palmetto is often touted for its ability to support prostate health. Some research suggests that it may help prevent or alleviate conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate that affects many men, particularly as they age. BPH can cause urinary difficulties, and if left untreated, it can interfere with bladder function. Though more research is needed to fully understand its impact, early studies have shown that saw palmetto may help treat symptoms of BPH, potentially reducing discomfort and improving prostate health.

2. Promotes Healthy Urinary Function
Urinary issues, such as difficulty urinating and incontinence, are common in older men, often due to prostate problems like BPH. Saw palmetto has been shown to improve urinary symptoms linked to BPH, including reduced urine flow and increased frequency of urination. In one study, men who took 160 mg of saw palmetto twice daily experienced improved urinary tract function after six months, including better urine flow and a higher quality of life. While these results are promising, additional research is necessary to determine whether saw palmetto benefits individuals without prostate issues as well.

3. May Help Reduce Male Pattern Baldness
Saw palmetto is also gaining attention for its potential to help prevent hair loss in both men and women, particularly in cases of androgenic alopecia, also known as male and female pattern baldness. It is believed to work by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss. DHT is thought to shorten the hair growth cycle, leading to thinner and shorter hair strands. While research into saw palmetto’s effect on hair loss is still in the early stages, there is growing interest in its ability to slow down or prevent hair thinning. However, more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

4. May Help Decrease Inflammation
Saw palmetto contains antioxidants like epicatechin and methyl gallate, which help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a wide range of health issues, including heart disease, arthritis, and other chronic conditions. Studies suggest that saw palmetto may possess anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit individuals dealing with inflammatory disorders. While promising, more research is needed to understand how saw palmetto affects inflammation in humans and its potential role in managing inflammatory diseases.