Saw palmetto is a supplement made from the fruit of the Serenoa repens tree, and it is often used to treat enlarged prostate, improve urinary function, and enhance hair growth. It may also have additional uses, such as boosting libido and fertility and reducing inflammation, but more research is needed to support these claims.
Saw palmetto is generally thought to be safe when used as directed, and side effects are usually mild and reversible. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, and decreased libido. However, more serious side effects like liver damage, pancreatitis, bleeding in the brain, and death have been reported, although these are rare.
It is important to note that saw palmetto may interact with other medications, including estrogen or oral contraceptives, iron supplements, treatments used for benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), and warfarin. Therefore, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking saw palmetto if you are taking any medications or have any medical conditions.
In summary, the positive effects of saw palmetto may include supporting prostate and urinary health, reducing male pattern baldness, and potentially having anticancer effects. However, more research is needed to support these claims. The negative effects of saw palmetto are usually mild and reversible, but more serious side effects have been reported, although these are rare.
