Saw palmetto extract has been used for medical purposes since the beginning of the 19th century. The extract reduces the activity of 5-α-reductase, which is the enzyme that converts testosterone into 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This helps avoid prostate enlargement, an unpleasant medical condition that affects mature men.
However, it is important to remember that saw palmetto extract is not reserved exclusively for men. Its use may reduce the symptoms of androgenic alopecia. That’s why it is often used in anti-hair-loss lotions. Saw palmetto also has a high concentration of phytosterols, capric and caprylic acids, lipids, tannins, and carotenoids.
