Saw Palmetto
Enlarged Prostate - This is the use that we suggest as there are research studies to support its benefit. Most clinical studies show significant benefits. As the herb is rated safe it does not put a person in danger if he decides to use it. It has a class 1 safety rating from the American Herbal Products Association. However, a recently completed well-designed study showed that it was no better than taking a placebo (sugar pill). Start with a dosage of around 160 mg daily or twice daily. Take it for 3 months and see if it benefits you in reducing the discomfort and symptoms of enlarged prostate.Acne - A lot of interest can be found in using this to treat and cure acne problems in both men and women. It may not work for everyone (and neither does prescription drugs!) but if it does, it will make a world of a difference for those suffering for acne problems. The history of this herb allows us to confidently recommend it for treating acne. Male Pattern Baldness - Evidence is building that this herb may be helpful in treating hair loss in men suffering from male pattern baldness. Initial finding is very promising. You may need to use this herb for up to three months before you can see a benefit. Use the same dose as for treating enlarged prostate. 
Table of Contents Facts
about Saw
Palmetto
Uses and Suggested Uses Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings Common Drug & Health Condition Interactions Dosage & How to Take It  Evidence of Benefits (Leaf Rating System)
Facts about Saw PalmettoMillions of men use saw palmetto to treat symptoms of enlarged prostate (BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia). It is often suggested as a suitable alternative to prescription drugs like Proscar (finasteride) and scientific evidence does support its use. What is Saw Palmetto?
Saw
palmetto is a palm type tree that can be found in southeastern USA. The
fruit is used for its medicinal benefits. In Europe, it is used
extensively to treat enlarged prostate. It is also approved by the
German Commission E.
Saw palmetto contains many active ingredients such as fatty acids, flavonoids and plant sterols. It is believed that the active ingredients are the oils found in the fruit. It is suggested that the active ingredients (one or more) blocks the conversion of the male hormone testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and thus, reduce prostate enlargement. However, experts are not exactly sure of the exact action it has on the prostate glands. It also seems to help treat male pattern baldness as one clinical trials showed. This supplement also seems to have anti-inflammatory benefits. However, taking this herb does not seem to lower serum PSA (prostate-specific antigen), a marker of prostate cancer. Can women use this herb?
There is very little good scientific information on using this herb in
women.
In theory, it is useable in women (who are not pregnant or nursing).
I've heard that this herb can cure my acne condition. Is that true?
One
growing use of this supplement to help clear up acne conditions in
both men and women.
Too much testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) can create acne problems. And don't forget that women also make testosterone (although in a smaller quantity than in men). Clinical studies will need to be done to verify this claim although there are many anecdotal reports for using it to treat acne conditions.
Suggested Benefits and Traditional UsesOral
Side Effects, Toxicity and WarningsSide effects that have been seen in research studies include:
Safety - Saw palmetto has been used extensively in human research studies and there appears to be no safety concerns. Pregnancy and Lactation - Probably not safe as this herb have hormone-like effects that could affect pregnancy or the unborn child. Do not use this if you are pregnant.
Common Drug & Health Condition InteractionsBlood Thinners / Anti-coagulants - caution Experts
believe that saw palmetto might
increase the risk of bleeding, especially when used with blood-thinners
such as Coumadin (warfarin), Plavix (clopidogrel), NSAIDS such as Advil
(ibuprofen), Voltaren (diclofenac), Naprosyn/Aleve (naproxen) or
Aspirin (ASA). Let your doctor know if you are taking this supplement,
especially if you are going for surgery.
Proscar / Propecia / Birth Control Pills - theoretical As this
supplement has hormonal
activities, it might interfere with Proscar/Propecia (finasteride),
Euflex/Eulexin (flutamide) or birth control pills. Use these
combinations with caution and let your doctor know if you decide to
take this herb.
Liver Problems - not likely This herb does
not affect any liver enzymes or liver function in healthy adults.
Dosage & How to Take ItCapsules or tablets dosage format The
usual dosage is 320 mg taken daily or 160 mg taken twice daily. Start
with 160 mg once daily first as it may be as effective. This is
standardized to 80% to 90% of the liposterolic content.
Take this
supplement with food will help reduce any stomach upset.
Dried, ground or whole berries Take 1 to 2
grams daily of the berries.
Tea formulation / Decoction / Extracts Take
2 teaspoons (10 grams) of dried berries and simmer in 720 mL (24
ounces)
of water until the volume is reduced in half. Drink 120 mL (4 ounces)
three times daily.
Some experts believe that the active ingredients may not dissolve in water and so this formulation may not be as effective. Related Topics and Resources Natural Remedies for Enlarged Prostate What Natural Remedies Can You Use for Hair Loss? Return to Natural Remedies List Selected
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