Accordingly, talk to your doctor about how much saw palmetto to take and which supplement brand to try. Dried saw palmetto berries are responsible for the plant’s health-supporting properties, per the University of Rochester Medical Center. Accordingly, you can eat the fruit by itself or as an extract in supplement form, such as berry powder, gel caps or tea (though tea may not be as effective as the other options, per Mount Sinai). A January 2019 paper in the Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research notes that palmetto was withdrawn from the U.S. as a medicine in 1950 due to a lack of research.
[However], high levels of DHT can lead to prostate enlargement, prostate cancer and androgenic alopecia (male pattern hair loss),” she continues. This is accomplished by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which catalyzes the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Using saw palmetto will improve these conditions by lowering DHT production in the body. Saw palmetto also stimulates prolactin production, which in turn increases milk production in lactating women.
Saw palmetto is a popular herbal supplement used primarily for its potential benefits in supporting prostate health. It is commonly taken in the form of capsules or tablets, but what is the most effective way to take saw palmetto to maximize its benefits?
Saw palmetto is a supplement made from the fruit of the saw palmetto tree. The supplements come in various forms, with oily extracts being the most popular. Still, the most common form on the market is oily extracts of the fatty portions of the dried berries (1). Dried and ground saw palmetto can also be purchased in capsule or tablet form. Individuals interested in taking saw palmetto can discuss dosing information with a health care provider knowledgeable about the herb. Saw palmetto is a plant that has the physical appearance of a small palm tree.
Those with liver or pancreas disorders, or who are pregnant/nursing should not take this. Do not take this product two weeks before or following a scheduled surgery. Talk to your doctor before taking this product if you take blood thinning medications or medications used to treat prostate disorders. Stop use and seek medical attention immediately if you experience prolonged dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting or constipation after taking this product. It would seem that saw palmetto is only a beneficial supplement for men, but women might benefit from it too. One study conducted at the Clinical Research and Development Network in Colorado tested 34 men and 28 women, aged 18–48 years, who topically applied saw palmetto extract in lotion and shampoo base for three months.
Tell your doctor, pharmacist, herbalist, or other healthcare provider about any unusual or bothersome side effect. It is not certain whether saw palmetto is effective in treating any medical condition. Saw palmetto should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor. Regardless, though, be careful when consuming any herbs with medicinal effects.
Saw palmetto comes from a palm-like plant that grows in the southeast United States. The berries of this plant are used to make the capsule form of saw palmetto. Saw palmetto is also known as American Dwarf Palm Tree, Baies du Palmier Scie, Cabbage Palm, Chou Palmiste, Ju-Zhong, Palma Enana Americana, Palmier Nain, Palmier Scie, Sabal, Serenoa, and other names. However, these uses, the safety of saw palmetto, and its long-term effects are still being studied.
Proper Dosage
It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging of the saw palmetto supplement. Typically, the suggested dosage is around 320 mg per day, divided into two doses. Taking more than the recommended amount may not necessarily increase the benefits and could potentially lead to side effects.
Consistency
Consistency is key when taking saw palmetto. To experience the full benefits of this supplement, it is important to take it regularly at the same time each day. This will help maintain a consistent level of saw palmetto in your system.
With Food
For optimal absorption, it is recommended to take saw palmetto with food. This can help improve the bioavailability of the active compounds in the supplement and enhance its effectiveness.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
If you are unsure about the best way to take saw palmetto or if you have any underlying health conditions, it is always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement regimen. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual needs and medical history.
