It is widely sold in the United States as a supplement to improve urinary health.
Even so, some evidence indicates that certain compounds in saw palmetto may have medical uses.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Most are derived from the berry of the plant.
There are also oil-based saw palmetto serums that you’re free to apply directly to the hair.
There is no recommended dose for saw palmetto in any form.
As a general rule, never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended daily dose.
Supplements should never be used as a substitute for treatments prescribed by a healthcare provider.
The evidence supporting the benefits of saw palmetto in treating or preventing BPH is lacking.
Studies show just the opposite.
After 12 weeks, those given saw palmetto had lower overall pain scores than those given the placebo.
Findings from other studies have been inconsistent.
One reported worsening symptoms, while the remaining three showed no significant changes in pain symptoms.
What Are the Side Effects of Saw Palmetto?
This may be due to saw palmetto’s suppressive effect on testosterone.
Who Shouldnt Take Saw Palmetto?
Does Saw Palmetto Interact with Other Drugs?
The NCCIH states that saw palmetto has not been shown to interact with medications.
According to the NCCIH, saw palmetto has no effect on a person’s PSA levels when tested.
To date, the evidence supporting these claims is weak.
While generally safe for use, saw palmetto is not known to treat or prevent any medical condition.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Saw palmetto.
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A systematic review and meta-analysis.Asian J Surg.
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Baas W, Kohler TS.Testosterone replacement therapy and BPH/LUTS.
What is the evidence?Curr Urol Rep.2016;17(6):46. doi:10.1007/s11934-016-0600-8600-8
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