Saw palmetto isn't likely to stop menstruation in women. This herb is often used as an anti-inflammatory, which is why it's predominantly taken as an alternative treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, an enlargement of the prostate gland. Like other anti-inflammatory supplements, saw palmetto isn't known to cause an absence of vaginal bleeding. Women --- and men, for that matter --- should talk to a doctor before taking this or any other dietary supplement to treat a medical condition.
Menstruation
There's no indication that saw palmetto stops menstruation in women. If anything, this herb might increase vaginal bleeding. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, saw palmetto possesses anticoagulant properties, which can prolong bleeding time. Of course, this bleeding is associated with hemorrhages after surgical procedures, so saw palmetto isn't likely to alter menstruation at all.
Dosage
Dosages of saw palmetto can range anywhere from 160 mg twice a day to 6 mL once a day. This range is used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. No other specifications are made for its use to treat other conditions. Don't self-prescribe saw palmetto for any reason, regardless of what you may have heard. Not enough is known about saw palmetto, so women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid its use.
Warning
Like many herbal supplements, saw palmetto has the potential of causing certain side effects. Though rare, you can experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea from its use. It's known to trigger headaches in some people as well. A change in menstruation isn't noted. Saw palmetto may also adversely interact with blood thinners, oral contraceptives and finasteride, a medication commonly used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia. For this reason, among others, talk to your doctor before using this or any other herbal supplement.
Recommendation
If for some reason you experience irregular menstruation after taking saw palmetto, stop its use and contact your doctor. An absence of menstruation can be an indication of an underlying disorder. Besides pregnancy or menopause, periods can stop as a result of medications, contraceptives, hormonal imbalances, uterine scarring and even lifestyle factors, such as stress, low body weight and increases in physical activity. Proper diagnosis is essential to regulating your menstrual cycle.
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