Saw palmetto is an American shrub species that produces large, dark berries the size of olives. Native Americans used the berries as a food source as well as for medicinal purposes.

Traditionally, saw palmetto was used to treat frequent urination at night, impotence, lowered libido, and prostate issues. In modern times it is often used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate problems that causes pain and frequent urination.

The effectiveness of saw palmetto is contributed to the phytosterols in saw palmetto berries. The phytosterols are believed to stop testosterone from converting to DHT, which is suspected of leading to an inflamed prostate.

The actual studies on the effectiveness of saw palmetto, however, have shown mixed results. This includes a study finding it to moderately improve urinary symptoms and flow measures. Other studies found it was not any more effective than the placebo.

While the study results are conflicting, the main use of saw palmetto berries remains the treatment of BPH. There are other believed medicinal purposes such as being a general anti-inflammatory. It is also used to treat coughs, bronchitis, menstrual problems, and asthma. It might also be helpful as a digestive aid, appetite stimulant, diuretic, sedative, and general tonic. Finally, some believe it is an aphrodisiac.

Saw palmetto berries are dried and ground up for usage in herbal supplements. The supplements come in various forms including capsules, tablets, soft gels, tinctures, and teas. The teas are not as effective as other forms, as the oils containing saw palmetto’s active ingredients do not dissolve in water. It is best to choose a supplement standardized to 85 to 95% fatty acids and sterols. The typical daily dosage for prostate issues is 160 to 320mg. It often takes 6 to 8 weeks for BPH symptoms to improve.

Although rare, there are some reported side effects including stomach pain, dizziness, and headache. They are often minimized or avoided by taking two smaller doses with food daily.

There are no known interactions with other drugs, but it is still best to check with your doctor before using saw palmetto supplements, especially for those with cancer or any hormone-dependent illness.. It is not a replacement for other drugs and other prescriptions should be continued unless the doctor tells you to stop. (Posted on 3/4/11)