이유민 (서강대학교 )

오한빈 (서강대학교 )

이유민 (서강대학교 )

오한빈 (서강대학교 )

This study aims to establish quality control markers for saw palmetto extracts through fatty acid composition analysis. Saw palmetto is widely used as a prostate health supplement. According to domestic standards, the authenticity of saw palmetto extracts is currently assessed solely based on lauric acid content. This approach has limitations as low-cost oils which are rich in lauric acid, can be added to meet the standard. To resolve these limitations, this study analyzed the fatty acid composition of commercially saw palmetto products and compared the results with standards from the United States Pharmacopeia(USP) and European Pharmacopeia(Ph. Eur.) to evaluate the potential for improving domestic analytical criteria. Five saw palmetto dietary supplements were analyzed, quantifying 11 fatty acid methyl esters(FAMEs). Samples were derivatized, purified, and analyzed using GC-FID. The analysis revealed variability in fatty acid composition among products, with some showing profiles deviating from USP and Ph. Eur. standards. However, these standards apply to extracts, while dietary supplements are diluted during manufacturing. These findings provide baseline data on fatty acid variation and highlight the need to assess extract-based standards for finished supplements. Future studies will involve untargeted GC-MS analysis of saw palmetto extracts and major adulterants (coconut oil and palm oil) to investigate fatty acid distribution and unique metabolite patterns.

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