Saw palmetto, scientifically known as Serenoa repens or Sabal serrulata is a plant that is much like a palm-tree, native to the United States’ southeastern region. The berries of this saw palmetto plant can help increase flow of urine, relieve muscle spasms, and limit inflammation.

The berries from saw palmettos were a staple to Native Americans that lived in the southeast United States. In addition, they were used to treat problems affecting the digestive tract in addition to intestinal disease and boosting libido.

During the early 1900s, saw palmetto was listed in the medical diagnostic field as an effective treatment for bladder and urinary tract inflammation, laryngitis, bronchitis, breast disorders, enlarge prostate glands, as well as BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia. This is where a primary benefit of saw palmetto lies, in treating individuals with BPH.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – Saw palmetto has been used by millions of men to help ease symptoms brought onward by BPH and is an alternative to the medicine Proscar. However, one study has shown that BPH was no more effective than a placebo pill in relieving signs and symptoms of BPH, so it has been determined that more studies are needed on the subject.

Other uses for saw palmetto can include the following:

Hirsuitism – body and facial hair growth experienced in women
Polycystic ovarian disease – cysts on the ovary that can lead to menstruation difficulties and infertility