Saw Palmetto – Effects, Properties, Side Effects
Saw palmetto is a plant native to North America whose fruits are rich in valuable compounds, making it of great interest to scientists and increasingly popular among consumers. What properties can saw palmetto have? How can it affect the human body? Which saw palmetto is the best? What side effects can occur from taking dietary supplements containing Serenoa repens?
Table of contents
Saw palmetto - what is it?
Saw palmetto (Latin: Serenoa repens) is a member of the palm family, also known as the American dwarf palm or bocznia piłkowana. It is a species typical of the subtropical climate zone of the southeastern United States, but it can also be found in Mexico, North Africa, and southern Europe.
Saw palmetto can grow up to 2-3 meters tall. It is an evergreen plant resistant to harsh climate conditions, with sharp, saw-like leaves forming broad fans. Its small white flowers bloom from May to July, and its fleshy fruits have a particularly astringent taste and turn a dark purple-black color.
This plant has been known and used by Native Americans for hundreds of years. However, it was officially introduced to the market in 1926. In 1950, due to a lack of scientific evidence confirming its beneficial effects, saw palmetto was withdrawn from sale. In the 1980s, scientific research into the plant’s potential began again, leading to its current worldwide popularity among consumers.
Saw palmetto - components
The fruits of saw palmetto are rich in valuable compounds, which is why they attract the most attention from both scientists and consumers. Key substances found in saw palmetto fruits include:
- flavonoids,
- linolenic acid and linoleic acid,
- tannins,
- phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol,
- kaempferol,
- resins,
- myristic acid.
Saw palmetto - properties
Saw palmetto is used as a supportive therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition most common in older men. Scientific studies suggest that saw palmetto fruit extract may have antiandrogenic, pro-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which could reduce factors contributing to prostate enlargement and support the elimination of cells responsible for gland growth.
Some research indicates that saw palmetto may help reduce or eliminate residual urine in the bladder and improve urine flow. It may also help reduce frequent urination, nighttime urination, and burning sensations during urination. However, more studies are needed, as current findings are mixed - some data suggest the plant’s impact on the prostate might be minimal.
Saw palmetto extract may also be helpful for people struggling with androgenic alopecia. While there are only a few studies on its potential role in treating this type of hair loss, available research suggests that the extract could improve hair quality and density in individuals with high levels of DHT, which weakens hair follicles.
Animal studies also suggest that saw palmetto extract may help ease symptoms of andropause by directly and indirectly regulating testosterone biosynthesis. Other analyses indicate it might also help relieve urinary symptoms in women, such as extending the time between urinations.
Saw palmetto - which is the best?
Saw palmetto has been known and used by Native Americans for centuries and, due to growing scientific interest, is becoming more popular worldwide.
On the supplement market, saw palmetto is available as extracts, powders, and dried or fresh fruits. Which form is best? That depends on individual needs. Extracts are often recommended because they provide a concentrated source of beneficial compounds, which can enhance supplementation quality.
When looking for the best saw palmetto product, it’s worth considering the reputation of the manufacturer - avoid products from unknown sources - and checking the ingredient list. A high-quality supplement should deliver significant amounts of active compounds without unnecessary additives or fillers.
Saw palmetto - how long to use it?
Preliminary research suggests that supplements containing saw palmetto should be taken for at least 6-8 weeks, though more studies are needed to confirm the optimal duration.
When taking products with saw palmetto fruit extract, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of supplementation. Using supplements incorrectly may lead to unwanted effects.
Saw palmetto - side effects and contraindications
Taking supplements containing saw palmetto fruit extract appears to be safe for humans. When used as directed, it should not cause side effects. However, improper use can lead to headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. In some cases, excessive intake may cause nasal congestion or decreased libido.
Because saw palmetto may reduce blood clotting, people taking anticoagulant medications should use it with caution. Due to its potential hormonal effects, it is also not recommended for women using hormone therapy, including hormonal contraception.
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