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VITALITY-ENERGY

Saw palmetto

Serenoa repens

also known as Sabal, American dwarf palm

Moderate (contested)

A small palm of the southeastern US whose berries are traditionally used for prostate comfort and urinary symptoms of mild BPH.

  • Supports prostate comfort in mild BPH
  • May reduce urinary frequency in BPH
  • Inhibits 5-alpha-reductase modestly
  • Used by the Seminole and other Indigenous tribes
  • Approved in Germany for symptomatic BPH

Active in Fatty acids (lauric, myristic, oleic), Phytosterols (beta-sitosterol).

Does not shrink prostate cancer — does not replace screening
Use caution with blood thinners
Use caution with hormonal medications and finasteride
Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery
Not for use in women, pregnancy, or nursing

NIH NCCIH Herbs at a Glance · MedlinePlus Herbs & Supplements

Works with
Nettle Saw palmetto (5-alpha-reductase inhibition) and nettle root (SHBG binding, DHT modulation) have complementary mechanisms in benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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