The berries of the saw palmetto plant were valued by certain Native Americans for their medicinal properties. Traditionally used to treat bronchitis, colds and migraines, saw palmetto may also boost sperm production and libido. Saw palmetto has recently been studied as an effective treatment against benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition in men in which the prostate gland is enlarged. Though both men and women can benefit from saw palmetto, only a medical professional can tell you how much of this medicinal herb to take.
For Benign Prostatis Hyperplasia
Men who suffer from BPH often experience urination problems, including frequent nighttime urination, urinary incontinence and weak or hesitant urination. By taking 160 mg of saw palmetto twice daily, men with BPH may experience relief from urinary discomfort. Alternatively, a single dose of 320 mg may also be effective in reducing BPH symptoms; however, additional research is necessary to examine proper dosage amounts for men with this condition.
For Other Health Conditions
Treatment with saw palmetto may also be beneficial for people with other health conditions, including bladder disorders, chronic pelvic pain, hair loss, hormone imbalances or reduced sex drive. Suggested dosages for such health concerns are 1 to 2 g of dried, ground or whole berries once daily or 2 to 4 mL of tincture three times daily. You can also prepare a tea by simmering 2 tsp. dried saw palmetto berry in at least 3 cups of water. Though you can drink up to 12 oz. of tea daily, health professionals with the University of Maryland Medical Center warn that the beneficial compounds in this natural herb don't dissolve in water. Consequently, saw palmetto tea may not elicit any noticeable health benefits.
Precautions
Treatment with saw palmetto isn't right for everyone. In fact, saw palmetto may mimic the effects of certain hormones in your body and shouldn't be used if you have a hormone-sensitive health condition, including endometriosis or reproductive cancer. In addition, the possible hormonal effects of saw palmetto makes treatment with this herbal supplement ill-advised during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Don't use saw palmetto for at least 14 days prior to surgery, as this natural treatment may increase your risk of bleeding.
Mild to Moderate Side Effects
People who use an appropriate dosage of saw palmetto usually don't experience severe side effects. Common mild side effects include bad breath, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. Infrequently, liver or pancreas problems may arise following treatment with saw palmetto.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Saw Palmetto; Steven D. Ehrlich; February 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Saw Palmetto: Dosing; December 2010
- MedlinePlus; Saw Palmetto; November 2010
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center; Saw Palmetto; February 2011
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC); Prostate Enlargement: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; June 2006
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