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Saw Palmetto |
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Saw Palmetto
SAW PALMETTO
(Serenoa serrulata/S. repens)
History and Folklore
Saw Palmetto is a creeping palm that is native to Florida, parts of Mexico and the Caribbean. Native Americans used it as food and medicine and made medicine collection baskets from the leaf stalk fibres. The leaves were also used to thatch houses and for weaving mats and hats. The olive like berries provided deliciously sweet treats that were appreciated by wo/man and animals alike. For medicinal purposes, Native Americans mostly used the root bark and leaves, unlike modern phytotherapy, which utilizes the berries. The uses of the berries have mostly been studied in Europe rather than the US. Saw Palmetto has recently caught the attention of the press as some questionable US studies claim that Saw Palmetto does not live up to its reputation to alleviate the symptoms of benign prostate enlargement (which is in stark contrast to dozens of European studies).
Medicinal Uses:
Native Americans used the roots of Saw Palmetto as a lotion for sore eyes, or made a decoction for kidney trouble. The dried root was used for high blood pressure. Boiled with bramble briar it was a remedy for stomach ache. They also considered it aphrodisiac. Modern phytotherapy has discovered a whole different range of applications for the berries, which have long been used as an effective remedy for stage I and stage II benign hyperplasia of the prostate gland, a condition which affects 50% of men over 50 and 80% of men over 80. It is marked by frequent urge to urinate, yet inability to completely empty the bladder. Saw Palmetto fruit eases these symptoms, though the effects are not immediate. Rather, they become noticeable after about 45 days of continued use. The effectiveness is said to be the same as that of standard medication. Side effects are rare, but some individuals have reported minor digestive troubles. Saw Palmetto can also help women: Due to hormonal substances present in the fruit it is said to reduce uterine cysts, increase breast size and reduce female facial hair growth (hirsutism). Men may also benefit from the aphrodisiac effect. It has been used for bronchitis and cough and is also given as a tonic for general malaise or as an aid for convalescence. It should be noted that the active compounds are not water soluble.
Magical Uses:
Saw Palmetto berries can be enjoyed as an aphrodisiac. In the Caribbean an aphrodisiac liqueur is made by macerating the berries in Gin. Various spices may be added and sweetened with honey. Liqueurs like this can be enjoyed as a ritual cup for sex magic or tantric rituals. The berries may also be used in charms for love and lust.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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