Saw palmetto is traditionally thought of as a supplement taken by men for benign prostatic hypertrophy but it may also be taken by women. Saw palmetto comes in several different forms and the suggested daily intake will depend on the variety being taken. Saw palmetto may cause adverse reactions and you should not use it without first consulting your doctor.
What is Saw Palmetto?
Saw palmetto berries have been used as an herbal treatment for many years. The plant is traditionally grown in the Southeastern United States. The active ingredients in saw palmetto are plant sterols, flavonoids and fatty acids.
According to Drugs.com, saw palmetto can block the effects of certain hormones and has some anti-inflammatory properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center says the molecular weight polysaccharides contained in the berries may also strengthen the immune system.
Varieties/Dosage
Saw palmetto comes in several different varieties, with 320 mg standardized extract being the most common dose used in clinical studies. The Mayo Clinic states that other doses have not been studied as much, but recommends 1 to 2 mL of fluid extract of berry pulp per day; 2 to 4 mL of tincture three times per day; 1 to 2 g of berries per day; and 4 oz. of tea three times daily. Tea may be made by using 2 tsp. with 24 oz. of water and simmering until half of the water evaporates. Tea may not be effective as the other forms as fatty acids are not soluble in water.
Saw Palmetto Uses
Saw palmetto is frequently used by men for prostate problems and has been tested extensively for this condition. MedlinePlus states saw palmetto is possibly effective as a treatment for benign prostatic hypertrophy, but more testing is needed before it can be recommended for breast enlargement, colds and coughs, sore throat asthma, treating treating polycystic ovary syndrome and other conditions.
The University of Maryland Medical Center states saw palmetto may have some benefit as a treatment for hirsutism and recommends a dosage of 160 mg of standardized extract twice per day for this use.
Precautions
Reported side effects from saw palmetto are considered minor and include headaches, vomiting or nausea. Because saw palmetto may cause hormonal changes women should use special care when taking it. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or at risk for hormone-related cancer should not use saw palmetto.
Saw palmetto may cause interactions with oral contraceptives and blood thinners and should be stopped several weeks in advance of having surgery. Saw palmetto has not been studied by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for safety or effectiveness and women should discuss saw palmetto with their physician before beginning to take the supplement.
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