To the Native Americans who collected its small berries, the saw palmetto plant was mainly a food source. In the 1900s, saw palmetto berries found a medicinal use. It was used to treat urinary tract infections and boost sperm production and libido. Today, saw palmetto is primarily used as an alternative treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia -- an enlargement of the prostate gland in men. Although this is the only condition for which there is enough evidence to support saw palmetto's efficacy, its effects on hormones in the body may make it an effective treatment for several conditions also affecting females. Consult your doctor before using saw palmetto to treat any condition that you may have.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition in which a hormonal imbalance causes eggs produced during ovulation to become trapped, forming small cysts in the ovaries. Symptoms include changes in menstruation and the development of male sex characteristics. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, saw palmetto may have anti-androgen effects, meaning it can reduce male sex hormones in the female body that may cause polycystic ovary syndrome. As with most alternative treatments, there is not enough scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, and you should consult a doctor before using saw palmetto to treat polycystic ovary syndrome.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism is another condition that results from an increase of male hormones in the female body, causing the growth of excess facial and body hair. Because saw palmetto may be effective at reducing male hormones in the female body, the University of Maryland Medical Center says it could be effective in treating this condition. There is not enough evidence to support this use of saw palmetto, though. Consult a doctor before taking any herbs that affect hormones.
Forms
Saw palmetto is available in various forms, including dried berries, powdered capsules, liquid tinctures, tablets and liposterolic extracts. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises consumers to read supplement labels carefully. Saw palmetto supplements should be a fat-soluble extract containing 85 to 95 percent fatty acids and sterols. Saw palmetto may be taken as a tea, but it may not be effective, because fatty acids are not water soluble.
Precautions
As with any alternative treatment, you should consult your doctor before using saw palmetto. Although it is believed to be safe for most users, side effects such as mild stomach upset and headache may occur. Pregnant and nursing women and women for whom pregnancy is even a remote chance should not use saw palmetto, because of its effect on hormones. Women at risk of hormone-related cancers should also not use saw palmetto. Saw palmetto may interact negatively with certain medications, including Finasteride, blood-thinners and oral contraceptives.
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