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SAW PALMETTO
COMMON NAME : Saw Palmetto, Sabal
LATIN NAME : Serenoa serrulata, Seronoa repens,
Sabal serulata
ACTIVE SUBSTANCES : steroidal saponins, fatty
acids, phytosterols, volatile oil, resin, tannins
DESCRIPTION : Saw Palmetto is a small palm tree
with large leaves and large deep red-blackberries. The berries were used
by the American Indians as a general tonic to nourish the body and
encourage appetite and normal weight gain. The berries were also used in
the treatment of genito-urinary tract problems including enuresis,
nocturia, and urinary tract disorders. Recent clinical trials have shown
that saw palmetto berries are helpful in the treatment of benign prostatic
hyperplasia.
PHYSIOLOGY : Saw Palmetto berries contain an oil
with a variety of fatty acids and phytosterols. These fatty acids include
capric, caprylic, caproic, lauric, palmitic, and oleic acid and their
ethyl esters. The major phytosterols are beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol,
cycloartenol, stigmasterol, cycloartenol, lupeol, lupenone, and
24-methyl-cyclo-artenol. The fat soluble extract of saw palmetto berries
has been shown to inhibit the conversion of testosterone (DHT) which is
thought to be responsible for the enlargement of the prostate. In addition
saw palmetto extract inhibits the binding of DHT to receptors thus
blocking DHT's action and promoting the breakdown of the potent compound.
ACTIVE PROPERTIES : The North American Indians
used saw palmetto berries as a remedy for atrophy of the testes,
impotence, inflammation of the prostate, and low libido in men. The
berries are also recommended for infertility, painful periods, and
lactation in women. The berries also have a traditional use as a tonic and
expectorant for mucous membranes, particularly the bronchial passages.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE : 320 mg / day
BIO-ENHANCING AGENTS : African Pygeum
TOXICITY, CAUTIONS & CONTRA-INDICATIONS : No
reported toxicity.

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