Saw palmetto berry is the fruit of Serenoa repens, a small tree native to the southeastern U.S. also known as shrub palmetto and dwarf palm.

The berries, which are an abundant source of beta-sitosterol, are used to make teas and tonics.

The berries, which are harvested in fall, are rich in phytosterols, plant steroid compounds that are marketed as supplements and added to margarine and other functional foods designed to help lower cholesterol.

Saw palmetto is best known for its use in decreasing symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy, BPH). According to many research studies, it is effective for this use.

Saw palmetto is used for treating certain types of prostate infections. It is also sometimes used, in combination with other herbs, to treat prostate cancer.

Some people use saw palmetto for colds and coughs, sore throat, asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and migraineheadache. It is also used to increase urine flow (as a diuretic), to promote relaxation (as a sedative), and to enhance sexual drive (as an aphrodisiac).

Saw palmetto doesn’t shrink the overall size of the prostate, but it seems to shrink the inner lining that puts pressure on the tubes that carry urine.

Cut and sifted and whole saw palmetto berries are too bitter to add to foods, but can be used to make tinctures and extracts. The berries are also used to make tea, usually in combination with other herbs and spices to enhance flavor.

Active compounds include: Steroidal saponin, Polysaccharides, Volatile oil, Fixed oil, Tannins.

Safety concerns: May increase the effects of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, including aspirin and warfarin. This herb may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills and other estrogen products.

Botanical Name: Serenoa repens
aka: American Dwarf Palm Tree, Baies du Chou Palmiste, Baies du Palmier Scie, Cabbage Palm, Chou Palmiste, Ju-Zhong, Palma Enana Americana, Palmier de Floride, Palmier Nain, Palmier Nain Américain, Palmier Scie, Sabal, Sabal Fructus, Sabal serrulata, Saw Palmetto Berry, Serenoa repens, Serenoa serrulata.Origin: USA
Notes: Kosher Certified. Non-irradiated. Non-GMO.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
* FDA disclaimer

References
webmd