Herbal Information Center - Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
From:
http://www.kcweb.com/herb/herbmain.htm
Saw Palmetto is a small, palm tree like plant native to the U.S.
Atlantic coast. This herb is called the "plant catheter" due to
its therapeutic effect on the neck of the bladder and the
prostate in men.
An extract of the saw palmetto will decrease urinary frequency,
especially during the night, due to inflammation of the bladder
and enlarged prostate.
Saw palmetto extract works to prevent testosterone from converting
into dihydrotestosterone, the hormone thought to cause prostate
cells to multiply, leading to an enlarged prostate. 
Preliminary evidence exists to also suggest saw palmetto may also
aid those suffering from thyroid deficiency. 
Saw palmetto is a good expectorant for use in clearing chest
congestion and can be used to treat coughs, asthma, and bronchitis.
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