Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)

Parts used: Berries

Benefits: Though long used by the native people of the subtropical coast of North America, saw palmetto has risen rapidly in popularity in recent years.  It is simply the best remedy for inflammation of the prostate gland.  It is tonic in action and serves as an effective diuretic and relaxant.  It is strengthening to those who are continuously nervous and stressed and who lack energy and vitality.  Its fatty fruit is one of the few Western herbs that are anabolic; it encourages weight gain and bulk by strengthening and building body tissue.  It is used by women to firm sagging breast tissue as well.  As a tonic herb, it can be taken regularly to strengthen the urinary and endocrine systems and to prevent future problems with the prostate gland and bladder.

Suggested uses: Saw palmetto has a fatty, pungent flavor that is hard to swallow and hard to disguise.  It is difficult to conceive of the taste of this herb until you’ve tried it. It’s not appealing as a tea, so it’s usually available in tincture form.  It can be used in capsules as well, but they should be fresh and good quality, because the fats in saw palmetto can quickly turn rancid.