Saw palmetto is a type of small palm tree that grows in the southeastern United States. The berries of the saw palmetto can be used to make an herbal medicine. The most common use for saw palmetto supplements is for treating benign prostate hyperplasia, although some people also use it for other conditions, such as hair loss. Do not take saw palmetto supplements without first speaking with your doctor to ensure it is safe for you.
Thinning Hair
There isn't enough scientific evidence to recommend the use of saw palmetto for thinning hair, according to MedlinePlus. Saw palmetto also isn't approved by the FDA for the treatment of any health conditions. If you have thinning hair, speak with your doctor about possible treatments for hair loss.
Side Effects
Saw palmetto may cause side effects, including headache, bad breath, insomnia, depression, muscle pain, dizziness, stomach discomfort, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and constipation. More serious, but rare, side effects include easy bruising or bleeding, irregular heart rate, chest pain, fainting, vomiting blood, bloody stools and pain in the testicles or breasts. Discontinue use of saw palmetto and speak with your doctor right away if you experience any of these more serious side effects. Saw palmetto may also reduce iron absorption.
Safety
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, at risk for hormone-related cancers or about to have surgery, don't take saw palmetto. Other conditions that may contraindicate saw palmetto use include ulcerative colitis, bleeding ulcers, bleeding disorders, breathing disorders, heart problems and liver disease. Saw palmetto can interact with certain medications, including birth control pills, estrogen and antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications.
Considerations
Do not self-treat with saw palmetto, or use saw palmetto in place of the treatment prescribed by your doctor. Speak with your doctor to insure that taking saw palmetto is safe for you, and to determine the appropriate dose. Remember that saw palmetto is not approved by the FDA for the treatment of hair loss, and no scientific studies have shown it to be effective for this use.
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