Saw palmetto is a medicinal supplement derived from the berries produced by the Serenoa repens plant. Traditionally, saw palmetto is used by men to reduce symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate. Alternatively, women and men may use saw palmetto to treat respiratory tract problems, migraine headaches, sore throat, or common cold or flu symptoms. However, further research studies are needed to support these purported health benefits of saw palmetto. As a female, discuss the use of saw palmetto supplements with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Precautions
How much saw palmetto you should take as a woman depends on a number of factors, including your age, weight and health status. Only your physician knows how much saw palmetto is appropriate for you. Thus, seek saw palmetto dosage guidance from your doctor before taking this herb.
Common Preparations
Common preparations of saw palmetto include capsules, liquid tincture, or extract and tea. The recommended daily dose of saw palmetto for women may vary depending on which herbal preparation you choose to take.
Recommended Dosage
Health professionals with MayoClinic.com report that 1 to 2 g of dried, ground saw palmetto may be used daily. Alternatively, women may take 1 to 2 mL fluid extract or 2 to 4 mL saw palmetto tincture up to three times daily. To prepare a tea, simmer 2 tsp. of dried saw palmetto berry with 24 oz. of water until approximately 12 oz. of fluid boils off. You may drink 4 oz. of saw palmetto tea up to three times each day.
Side Effects
Mild side effects may arise following treatment with saw palmetto. Both women and men may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache or dizziness. Stomach discomfort may also contribute to a temporary decrease in appetite. Women should not use saw palmetto during pregnancy or lactation because this herb may mimic the effects of other hormones in the body, which may lead to pregnancy or fetal development complications. In addition, women who have hormone-sensitive health conditions, including uterine fibroids and endometriosis, should not take saw palmetto. Improper use of this herbal treatment may worsen the symptoms of your health problem.
References
- MedlinePlus; Saw Palmetto; Nov. 19, 2010
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine; Saw Palmetto; May 2006
- MayoClinic.com; Saw Palmetto (Serenoa Repens [Bartram] Small): Dosing; Dec. 1, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Steven D. Ehrlich; Feb. 3, 2009
- University of Michigan Health System; Saw Palmetto; Feb. 24, 2010
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