The saw palmetto, which resembles a palm, produces small berries that are used in natural medicine. The berries have been in use since the time of the Mayans, and Native Americans used the berries for their antiseptic and mucous-thinning abilities, according to the Mayo Clinic. Perhaps the most common ailment for which saw palmetto is administered is enlargement of the prostate gland in men. Saw palmetto may also have an influence on the hormonal balance of women, potentially causing an unwanted effect on estrogen levels.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a palm-like plant that may help decrease the size of a man's enlarged prostate gland. The supplement has shown promise in research in preventing the development of tumors in men and women, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Saw palmetto also may reduce inflammation that occurs in the urinary tract of men and women; however, more research is necessary to provide support for this use claim. Finally, saw palmetto may help decrease the incidence of migraine headaches, which can be influenced by a woman's hormonal fluctuations.
Estrogen
Estrogen is found in men and women but is more prevalent in women. In the 28 days prior to onset of menstruation, your body orchestrates hormonal changes that prepare it for pregnancy. If a pregnancy does not occur, estrogen levels return to their baseline state and the process of preparation begins again and typically lasts 28 days.
Saw Palmetto's Effect on Estrogen
Saw palmetto appears to have an effect that is similar to hormones in your body, according to the UMMC. If you are using any type of oral contraceptive, taking saw palmetto can decrease its effect, explains Medline Plus. In addition, saw palmetto may reduce the effectiveness of hormone replacement medications, especially those containing estrogen or synthetic estrogen. If you are pregnant or breast feeding, avoid using saw palmetto because it can cause unstable estrogen levels that can potentially cause problems with your pregnancy and may impart excess estrogen to your child.
Considerations
Saw palmetto appears to offer benefit for men with enlargement of the prostate gland. Additionally, this herb may help decrease symptoms related to upper respiratory infection. Saw palmetto also has an effect on estrogen levels in your body and can make certain medications less effective. If you are taking blood-thinning medication or iron supplements, check with your physician before using saw palmetto. This herb can impair the absorption of iron and can also interfere with the effects of anticoagulant medications.
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