Is Saw Palmetto Good For An Enlarged Prostate?

It is common for the prostate gland to become enlarged with age. This is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates that more than half of men in their 60s may have symptoms of BPH such as frequent urination and incomplete emptying of the bladder. Surgery is often employed to alleviate symptoms of BPH; however, drug therapy is sometimes used as is the herb saw palmetto. Consult your doctor before using saw palmetto to relieve symptoms of BPH.

Characteristics

Saw palmetto is small palm tree native to the eastern coast of the United States. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the fruit of the saw palmetto tree was used as a medicinal remedy by the Seminole tribe of Florida. Although this herb is primarily used to treat urinary problems, it has also been used to treat other conditions such as hormone imbalances and a low sex drive.

Use

Saw palmetto can be taken as a liquid extracts in tablets or capsules and as a tea. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 320 mg of saw palmetto daily to provide relief from symptoms of BPH. However, this dose should only be used as a guideline. Talk to your doctor about how much saw palmetto you should take.

Efficacy

The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that saw palmetto works in a similar way and may even be as effective as two drugs commonly prescribed for BPH, Proscar and Avodart. The results of a study published in the February 2008 issue of the "Journal of Neurology" found that saw palmetto improved lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, an article published in August 2010 in "Prescrire International" states that saw palmetto is no more effective than placebo treatment.

Side Effects

According to NCCAM, saw palmetto is usually well tolerated; however, it may cause mild side effects including stomach upset. MedlinePlus notes that some people may also experience dizziness and headache. Saw palmetto has been linked to liver and pancreas problems although MedlinePlus states that there is insufficient evidence to show that saw palmetto caused these effects.

Contraindications

Do not take this herb if you are due to undergo surgery as it may slow blood clotting. Avoid saw palmetto if you are taking anticoagulants as it may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding, MedlinePlus notes.