What is Saw Palmetto? Explaining the Basics

Although saw palmetto was first introduced into the medical industry as an effective treatment for BPH, or benign prostatic hypertrophy, it is now being consider to assist in the treatment of many other health ailments. Some of these health conditions include:

* acne
* hair loss
* weight gain

As well, many women are using this herb to naturally and successfully increase the size of their breasts.

What is Saw Palmetto? The History in Short

Human beings have been benefiting from the saw palmetto herb for many generations now. In the beginning of the history of this herb, the fruits were a part of the regular diet of the Aborigines in the Florida peninsula. Early in its history, saw palmetto fruits were a regular staple food. While some people may ask, "What is saw palmetto?", other people have known the answer to that question for many years now. Early history of the herb also shows:

* Mayans regularly used saw palmetto as a tonic.
* Seminoles would commonly use the berries from saw palmetto as an antiseptic.

The early history of saw palmetto shows us that for centuries people have been reaping great health benefits from this natural herb.

In addition to the health benefits previously mentioned, saw palmetto has been claimed to assist in the treatment of under active bladders, as well as chronic pelvis pain syndrome. Yet even more positive claims have been made regarding saw palmetto, however, they have yet to be proven by scientific studies.

What is Saw Palmetto? Possible Side Effects

As with any type of medication, be it prescribed or alternative, there are often risks of side effects associated with its use. When answering the question "What is saw palmetto?" it is important to discuss the possible side effects associated with it. Although side effects associated with this particular herb are said to occur only on rare occasions, it is important to know what to watch for. Some of the possible side effects associated with saw palmetto include weight gain, as well as minor issues involving the stomach and intestines. No complaints have ever been documented regarding allergies, decline in sex drive, or tender breasts. If you are using saw palmetto to benefit your health, and you experience side effects different from the one mentioned, you should immediately discontinue usage and consult your physician.

What is Saw Palmetto? Is it for You?

If you are comfortable in believing that alternative medicine can be effective, saw palmetto may be the right treatment for you. When making the determination, many other factors should be considered, as well. These factors can include:

* What is your particular health issue?
* How is your overall health?
* Do you take any regular prescribed medication? If so, how will it interact with saw palmetto?
* What is your age and gender?

Before you decide to use saw palmetto as a treatment method to assist in healing a health ailment, it is best to first discuss these questions with your doctor.