Saw palmetto is used primarily for prostate health, but women sometimes use it for excessive hair growth and/or male pattern baldness associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome, bladder irritation, stomach and intestinal distress. It's made from the berries of a specific species of palm tree and is most often available in capsule form, although some people prefer to ingest it in tea or tincture form.
Pregnancy Warning
Saw palmetto should not be taken if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, according to information at Drugs.com. Since herbal supplements are not usually evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, it is not known if saw palmetto could harm an unborn baby. Saw palmetto may cross into breast milk, so it should not be used by nursing women.
Bleeding
Saw palmetto could increase bleeding, so for women who are still menstruating, it can increase the flow and potentially cause an iron deficiency. It should not be taken if you're already taking a blood thinner such as Coumadin or heparin.
Birth Control Pill Efficacy Issues
Saw palmetto may interfere with the hormone balance that causes birth control pills to prevent pregnancy, as it may affect testosterone levels.
Other Side Effects
Some side effects of saw palmetto affect both men and women. They include stomach upset, stomach ulcers, liver damage and jaundice. Other reported side effects have included insomnia, depression, breathing problems, high blood pressure, weight gain and heart problems.
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