Herbal supplements are seen by many as safe because they are natural. So when you decide to take a supplement like saw palmetto and you experience scary side effects like heart palpitations, you have a rude awakening. Of course, your heart palpitations may be caused by something else entirely, like anxiety, caffeine or nicotine, and they are not generally recognized as a saw palmetto side effect. The supplement can cause them indirectly, but a simple change in your own behavior may remedy the situation.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement, commonly used to reduce the symptoms of an enlarged prostate associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy. It doesn't actually shrink the prostate, but it can help reduce the inflammation in the surrounding tissues that puts pressure on the urinary tract, relieving urination difficulty. Saw palmetto also has roots in traditional medicine, as a remedy for colds, migraines and respiratory complaints, although its effect on these conditions has not been proven as of time of publication.
Side Effects
A number of side effects are associated with the herb, but they are rare and most are mild. Digestive upset is the most common complaint, but taking the pill with food can reduce that risk. Some people may be allergic to saw palmetto and develop difficulty breathing, in which case the supplement should be discontinued and medical attention sought immediately. Heart palpitations are not listed as a side effect in any known literature about saw palmetto, but they may be caused indirectly by the herb.
Diuretic
Saw palmetto has a diuretic effect, meaning it can flush fluid from your body. This may be a beneficial effect for some who may otherwise experience bloating and water retention, but it can create a dangerous situation for others. By ridding your body of its usual hydration levels, you could put yourself at risk for dehydration if you fail to drink enough water to compensate for the extra loss. The risk is compounded when you sweat heavily, either during an intense workout or from severe heat.
Heart Palpitations
The fluid in your body is more than just water; it's full of chemicals like potassium, magnesium and calcium, known as electrolytes. As the name implies, these chemicals help transmit electrical signals within the body; when your electrolytes are very low, those signals don't get transferred as efficiently. Since your heartbeat is triggered in part by electrical signals, you can see how insufficient electrolytes may alter your normal rhythm. When you lose body fluid, you lose electrolytes, so be careful to drink enough water that your urine is colorless while you are taking the supplement.
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