A hexane extract of the berries has been shown to have antiandrogenic properties through a direct action on the estrogen receptors and by inhibiting the enzyme testosterone-5-alph-reductase.

Subcutaneously administered extracts were strongly estrogenic in mice. Furthermore, saw palmetto extract has been shown to prevent the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) as well as to inhibit DHT binding to cellular and nuclear receptor sites, thereby increasing the metabolism and excretion of DHT. A double-blind placebocontrolled study evaluated the hormonal effects of saw palmetto extract given to men with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) for 3 months prior to operation. The study found that saw palmetto displayed an estrogenic and antiprogesterone effect as determined by estrogen and progesterone receptor activity.

Aids thyroid in regulating sexual development and normalizing the activity of those glands and organs. Tonic. Good for strengthening and body building. For men, it treats enlarged and weakened prostate, impotence. For women, it increases breast size and secreting ability, relieves ovarian and uterine irritability, frigidity. Stimulates appetite, improves digestion and increases assimilation of nutrients. Expectorant, used for colds, head and nose congestion, asthma, bronchitis. Promotes urine flow, urinary antiseptic, good for infections of gastro-urinary tract.

Also used in diabetes. Increases the tone of the bladder, allowing a better contraction and more complete expulsion of the contents, relieving any straining pain. Nourishes the nervous system and aids assimilation of nutrients. Nicknamed the "plant catheter" because it has the ability to strengthen the neck of the bladder. Because saw palmetto blocks the formation of DHT which kills off hair follicles its possible this can be used to prevent hair loss.

Properties:

diuretic, urinary antiseptic, endocrine agent, nutritive

Remedies:

Prostate-Reducing tincture 1 oz tincture of saw palmetto berries; 1/2 oz each tinctures of nettle root, sarsaparilla root, wild yam root, echinacea root and pipsissewa or uva ursi leaves. Combine ingredients. Take half a dropperful 3 times a day. For maintenance dose take once a day.

Toxicity:

In most controlled trials, the incidence of side effect was low. These consisted mainly of headache. No changes in blood chemistry parameters have been noted during therapy. Large amounts of the berry are reported to cause diarrhea. Because of its potential hormonal effects, the product should not be used by pregnant women. Little experience exists with the extract when given to children or patients suffering from hormonal-dependent illnesses other than benign prostatic hypertrophy.