Saw palmetto is a popular herbal supplement that is commonly used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that causes the prostate gland to enlarge. While saw palmetto is generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential negative effects that should be taken into consideration.
1. Stomach Upset
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements. The 2012 study that included 357 men found that saw palmetto showed no evidence of toxicity even at doses up to three times the usual clinical dose over a period of 18 months. When shopping for dietary supplements, it’s important to purchase products from brands that adhere to strict safety and quality standards. For example, due to a lack of safety data and saw palmetto’s impact on hormones, saw palmetto supplements shouldn’t be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding and shouldn’t be given to children.
The researchers found no evidence of toxicity, even at doses up to three times the usual clinical dose. Saw palmetto contains a variety of plant compounds that have medicinal properties. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. According to test-tube studies, it may also have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, but more research in these areas is needed.
One of the most common negative effects of saw palmetto is stomach upset. Some people may experience symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain after taking the supplement. If you are prone to gastrointestinal issues, it is important to monitor how your body reacts to saw palmetto and speak with a healthcare provider if you experience any discomfort.
Evidence shows finasteride treatment can reduce prostate volume by 20% and improve lower urinary tract symptoms. Although effective, the medication also causes side effects such as sexual dysfunction (5). Studies with a liposterolic extract of saw palmetto berries showed that it reduced tissue uptake of both testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by more than 40%, suggesting antiandrogenic activity (7).
2. Allergic Reactions
“Some patients do get some relief from saw palmetto with BPH,” says Harland Holman, MD, a family medicine physician with Spectrum Health. However, eating the whole natural saw palmetto herb won’t provide you with additional medicinal benefits. Although not all side effects are known, saw palmetto is thought to be likely safe for most people.
In rare cases, saw palmetto can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking saw palmetto, stop using the supplement immediately and seek medical attention.
Saw palmetto is a hormone and is not likely to be safe to use during pregnancy. Even when the men were taking the highest dose of saw palmetto, the incidence of adverse side effects was similar in the intervention group and the placebo group. Though you can forage for saw palmetto berries in some areas, the plant is protected in states like Florida, as it serves as an important food source and habitat for wildlife. In Florida, you must acquire a permit before foraging for saw palmetto berries. Though saw palmetto is generally considered safe, it should be avoided by certain populations.
3. Hormonal Imbalance
Saw palmetto is thought to affect hormone levels in the body, particularly by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While this can be beneficial for treating BPH, it may also have unintended consequences on hormone balance. In some cases, saw palmetto may lead to hormonal imbalances that can cause side effects such as breast tenderness, decreased libido, or changes in menstrual cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can saw palmetto interact with medications?
A: Yes, saw palmetto may interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners and hormone-related medications. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking saw palmetto if you are on any medications to avoid potential interactions.
Q: Is saw palmetto safe for women?
A: While saw palmetto is mainly used to treat BPH in men, some women may also use it for conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hair loss. However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using saw palmetto due to potential hormonal effects.
In conclusion, while saw palmetto can be a helpful natural remedy for certain conditions, it is important to be aware of the potential negative effects it may have. Monitoring your body’s response to the supplement and consulting with a healthcare provider can help ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.
