Vitamins and Supplements

Saw palmetto is a popular herbal remedy used in Europe and the US to treat BPH, an enlarged prostate gland that causes urinary problems in men. While some small-scale studies indicate its benefits, larger studies haven’t conclusively shown that saw palmetto effectively reduces prostate size or alleviates the urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).

Before considering saw palmetto or any other supplement, it’s crucial to consult your doctor. This precaution is essential because supplements could potentially interfere with prescribed medications, ongoing treatments, or necessary medical tests.

What Is Saw Palmetto?

Saw palmetto, scientifically known as Serenoa repens, is a type of palm native to the southern coastal regions of the United States. It typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and is characterized by its fan-shaped, sharp leaves and abundant berries.

These berries have a rich history of medicinal use, with some Native American tribes employing them to address urinary issues in men.

Potential Benefits of saw palmetto for BPH

Several small-scale studies suggest that this supplement may offer relief from symptoms associated with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) in various ways:

1. Reduced Nighttime Urination: Some evidence suggests that taking this supplement might decrease the frequency of nighttime urination, allowing for better sleep.
2. Improved Urinary Flow: It has been observed that this supplement could enhance the flow of urine during urination.
3. Alleviated Painful Urination: Saw palmetto may also help ease the discomfort experienced during urination.

Limited Evidence for Other Uses:

Beyond BPH, some individuals have explored the use of this supplement for addressing other health concerns, including:

1. Low – Sex Drive
2. Hair Loss
3. Low Sperm Count
4. Migraines
5. Persistent Pelvic Pain

However, studies examining the efficacy of this supplement for these conditions have yielded limited results thus far.

It’s important to note that while this supplement shows promise for certain issues, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re currently undergoing medical treatment or taking prescription medications.

Dosage and Considerations

For addressing benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), studies have recommended a daily intake of 320 milligrams of this supplement, divided into two doses.

The recommended dosage may vary for other forms of saw palmetto, such as tinctures (liquid preparations). It’s crucial to seek guidance from your doctor regarding the appropriate dosage for your specific needs. Additionally, it may take between 4 and 6 weeks for this supplement to manifest its effects.

Saw palmetto is not naturally found in food sources, so supplementation is typically the primary means of consumption.

Side Effects of saw palmetto

Side effects associated with these supplements are relatively rare and usually mild. Some of the most commonly reported side effects include the following:

1. Nausea
2. Stomach pain
3. Halitosis (bad breath)
4. Constipation
5. Diarrhea
6. Vomiting

In addition, some men taking the supplement have reported experiencing:

1. Erectile dysfunction
2. Testicular pain
3. Breast tenderness

If you experience any adverse effects while taking the supplements, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider promptly.

Additional Considerations:

Before incorporating these supplements into your routine, it’s crucial to discuss the following aspects with your doctor or pharmacist:

Interactions: If you regularly take any medications, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider before using these supplements. Certain medications may interact poorly with saw palmetto, including aspirin, NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), blood thinners, and hormone treatments. Combining saw palmetto with other supplements, such as ginkgo biloba or garlic, could significantly increase the risk of bleeding.

Other Health Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should refrain from using saw palmetto without consulting a healthcare professional first. It’s essential to discuss any underlying health issues with your doctor to determine if this supplement is safe for you.

Special Populations: Saw palmetto is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s crucial to exercise caution and seek medical advice before using the supplement in these populations.

Sources

1. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
2. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
3. Natural Standard Patient Monograph
4. The Journal of Urology: “A Prospective, 1-Year Trial Using Saw Palmetto Versus Finasteride in the Treatment of Category III Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome.”
5. Mayo Clinic
6. Winchester Hospital (Massachusetts)
7. Longe, J., ed., The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, second edition, 2004.