GreenWitch Gardens Apothecary

Saw palmetto

Saw palmetto

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Botanical Name

  • Serenoa repens

Common Names

  • Saw Palmetto
  • Sabal
  • Dwarf Palm
  • American Dwarf Palm Tree

Flavor

  • Bitter, Sweet

Herbal Energetics

  • Warming, Moistening

Herbal Actions

  • Anti-androgenic: Helps to regulate hormones, particularly by reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the urinary and reproductive systems.
  • Diuretic: Promotes urination, which can help to relieve fluid retention and reduce inflammation.
  • Tonic: Supports the overall health and function of the reproductive system, particularly the prostate in men.
  • Antiseptic: Provides antiseptic properties, helping to prevent or treat infections in the urinary tract.

Organ Affinities

  • Reproductive System: Saw palmetto is particularly supportive of the male reproductive system, especially the prostate.
  • Urinary System: It supports the urinary system by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy urine flow.
  • Endocrine System: It has a regulating effect on the endocrine system, particularly in terms of hormone balance.

Uses

  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Used to treat and manage symptoms of BPH, such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, and inflammation of the prostate.
  • Urinary Tract Health: Supports urinary tract health by reducing inflammation, promoting healthy urine flow, and preventing infections.
  • Hormonal Balance: Helps to balance hormones, particularly in men, by reducing the conversion of testosterone to DHT.
  • Libido and Sexual Health: Enhances libido and supports overall sexual health, particularly in men.
  • Inflammation and Fluid Retention: Reduces inflammation and helps to relieve fluid retention, particularly in the urinary and reproductive systems.

Preparation and Dosage

  • Tincture: Take 2-4 ml of a 1:5 tincture in 25% alcohol, 2-3 times daily, particularly for prostate health, urinary tract support, and hormonal balance.
  • Decoction: Less commonly used, but 1-2 teaspoons of dried saw palmetto berries per 1-2 cups of water can be boiled then steeped for 10-15 minutes. Drink 1-2 times daily for urinary and reproductive support.
  • Oil: Saw palmetto oil can be applied topically or taken internally (in capsule form) for its benefits on skin health and hormonal balance.

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Saw palmetto should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may affect hormone levels.
  • Hormonal Therapies: Individuals taking hormone-related medications or therapies, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, should use saw palmetto with caution, as it may interfere with these treatments.
  • Blood Clotting Disorders: Saw palmetto may have mild blood-thinning effects, so it should be used with caution in individuals with blood clotting disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications.
  • Surgery: Discontinue use of saw palmetto at least two weeks before surgery due to its potential effects on blood clotting.

Materia magica

  • Protection and Strength: Saw palmetto is associated with protection, particularly for physical and spiritual strength, making it useful in rituals aimed at enhancing personal power and resilience.
  • Fertility and Masculinity: It is often used in spells and rituals to enhance fertility, particularly in men, and to promote masculine energy and vitality.
  • Courage and Willpower: Saw palmetto can be used in rituals to boost courage, determination, and the will to overcome challenges.
  • Grounding and Stability: The plant's connection to the earth makes it a strong ally in grounding practices, helping to stabilize emotions and energy.
  • Planet: Mars - Saw palmetto is associated with Mars, the planet of action, vitality, and masculinity, aligning with its effects on male reproductive health, strength, and courage.
  • Element: Fire - Linked to the Fire element, representing energy, strength, and transformation, resonating with saw palmetto’s warming and invigorating properties.
  • Zodiac Sign: Scorpio and Aries - Aligns with Scorpio, a sign ruled by Mars, emphasizing themes of sexuality, transformation, and resilience, and Aries, which also resonates with Mars' energy of action and vitality.
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