Saw Palmetto grows in dense clumps along sandy coastal lands or as undergrowth in hardwood hammocks [1]. It is native to the southeastern United States along the Atlantic and Gulf coastal plains [1]. Saw palmetto is a fan palm and its leaves are almost identical to the leaves on the Sabal Palm Tree [1]. Therefore, some alternate names for saw palmetto include Sabal, Sabal Fructus, American Dwarf Palm Tree, Cabbage Palm, Ju-Zhong, Palmier Nain, and Saw Palmetto Berry [2].
Saw palmetto plants produce large reddish-black fruit that have been eaten by the Native Americans and animals for centuries [1]. Although the saw palmetto also produces leaves and flowers, it is the edible fruit that is used as an herbal remedy [2]. The whole berry or berry extracts can be effectively prepared for herbal use [2]. Early records indicate the fruit was first used by the Native Americans to treat urinary and genital problems [1]. In modern times, when taken orally, saw palmetto is used to treat symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition in which the male prostate gland becomes enlarged [2]. Saw palmetto is also used as a mild diuretic, a sedative, to improve sexual vigor, and for colds, coughs, and migraines [2]. It is also used for its an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic actions [2]. The fruit of the saw palmetto can also be applied topically as a powder to be used as a uterine and vaginal tonic [2].
Some common side effects reported with saw palmetto use include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. There are also reports of erectile dysfunction and excessive bleeding. These side effects can lead to serious drug interactions with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, or aspirin. It is also believed to interact with oral contraceptives and estrogen therapy. [2]
Saw palmetto is commonly given 160 mg twice daily or 320 mg once daily for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is also available as a powder but this dosage form is not commonly used. [2]
Saw palmetto is important in the field of pharmacy for its use in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Patients with allergies to current prescription medications on the market may not have any alternative, so they turn to saw palmetto. In addition, it is more affordable and has easier access than prescription medication so the patient will probably be more compliant.
References
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saw_palmetto
[2] Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: Saw Palmetto Monograph (available online)
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