The male hormone dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, when produced in excess, has been linked to a variety of problems, including benign prostatic hyperplasia, hair loss, acne and symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports research that suggests that saw palmetto can reduce the production of DHT and it has primarily been studied for the treatment of BPH.. It has demonstrated effectiveness in improving symptoms of this condition and some dosage guidelines exist based on clinical research. Whether these doses would prove effective in addressing other conditions, however, cannot be determined. If you believe taking saw palmetto would address a particular health concern, talk to your doctor about the appropriateness of use and a suggested dosage.
Dosage Guidelines
Saw palmetto supplements are typically standardized to contain 85 percent to 95 percent fatty acids and sterols, their primary active components. The Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center notes the standard dosage for treating enlarged prostate is 160 mg two times a day or one single dose of 320 mg. Drugs.com notes studies that used up to 400 mg daily. If you are taking saw palmetto in tincture form, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports a recommended dose of 5 mL to 6 mL daily, though it notes the therapeutic effectiveness of this dose has not been established.
Side Effects
Clinical studies conducted with saw palmetto suggest it is generally safe and non-toxic. It might cause side effects typical of most drugs and supplements, such as mild stomach upset, nausea and diarrhea.
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes a case report of severe bleeding during an operation linked with saw palmetto use. If you are planning on having surgery, talk to your doctor about whether you should temporarily discontinue use of the supplement within a certain timeframe before the surgery.
Interactions
Saw palmetto might reduce blood clotting, which could increase the risk of bleeding associated with warfarin and other anticoagulant medications. Its effects on hormones might reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control and interact with other hormonal medications. If you take medications to treat an enlarged prostate, talk to your doctor before adding saw palmetto to your treatment regimen.
It might also interfere with iron absorption. Take saw palmetto several hours before or after using iron supplements or consuming iron-rich foods to prevent inadequate intake of this nutrient.
Other Considerations for Use
Do not use saw palmetto while pregnant or breastfeeding. Beth Israel notes two case reports of severe liver inflammation while taking saw palmetto, but that animal studies using extremely high doses indicate it does not harm the liver. It is possible something else contributed to the inflammation. If you have liver disease, however, talk to your doctor before using any sort of supplement. The same goes if you have kidney disease. These organs have a particular vulnerability to what you put in your body, particularly when operating in a diseased state.
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