Other names: Serenoa repens, Sabal serrulata

Saw palmetto grows naturally in the southeast United States, including Georgia, Mississippi, and particularly Florida.

The effects of saw palmetto are attributed solely to its ability to suppress the production of dihydrotestosterone or DHT from testosterone. Testosterone is a naturally occurring androgen which is needed by the body, while DHT is a more potent hormone produced from it. Testosterone is converted into DHT through an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase which is inhibited by saw palmetto.

Physicians have been prescribing saw palmetto as a reproductive stimulant to women for enhancing their sexual vitality, fertility, and to normalize irregular menstrual cycles.

Possible Side Effects
Saw Palmetto should be consumed with food and water since taking it on an empty stomach may cause upset stomach or nausea.