Plant extract that, when taken orally, has been shown in short-term trials to be efficacious in reducing the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (Source: Annals of Internal Medicine, January 2002, pages 42–53). It may have an anti-inflammatory effect on skin, but there is little research to support this. Saw palmetto’s reputation is based primarily on the fact that it can reduce the presence of the male hormone dihydrotestosterone, and so it could theoretically reduce hair loss, but this effect has not been proven. There is anecdotal information that it can also have estrogenic effects; but not only is that unlikely, it is also highly improbable that it could have such effects when applied topically (Source: Healthnotes Review of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, www.healthwell.com/healthnotes/Herb/Saw_Palmetto.cfm).