BGG received patent for analytical method to properly identify saw palmetto

Photo © iStockphoto.com/LightScribe

BGG World (Irvine, CA) has announced the receipt of a Japanese patent (#7217134 “Determination of Saw Palmetto Oil”) for the development of an innovative method for identification of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). Harvested in the Southeastern U.S., predominantly in Florida, saw palmetto prices has seen sharp increases du to growing demand in the market and climatic influences such as hurricanes. This has led to the proliferation of adulterated product, which the new identification method hopes to slow down.

Current analytical methods focus on total fatty acids, sterols, β-sitosterol and some physical characteristics such as viscosity and color, which makes it difficult to identify real saw palmetto oils from those coming from different sources because factors such as fatty acid composition can be mimicked and adjusted with other constituents. In contrast, BGG’s new method uses HPLC to ensure saw palmetto oils contain minor components unique to the plant. This method, says BGG is simpler, yet more precise.

“BGG's mission is to contribute to the global nutraceutical market. We’re very honored that our analytical method serves as a safeguard to provide authentic saw palmetto extract and reduce this proliferation of adulterated supplements in the market,” said Takahiro Sekikawa, PhD, the lead inventor of the patent, in a press release. “BGG is always happy to share analytical results on our quality-leading ProstPalm Saw Palmetto Extract to guarantee the ingredient’s authenticity.”