Natural Medical SolutionsSaw palmetto is a small tree. Its berries are used to make supplements. People often take it for prostate health or hair loss.
What is saw palmetto?
This tree grows in the West Indies and North America. It reaches a height of 6 to 10 feet. People use the berries for health needs.
It is sold as a supplement. It is not approved by the FDA before it is sold. Makers must ensure their products are safe.
What are the benefits of saw palmetto?
Many people take it for urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH). It is also used for hair loss and pelvic pain.
Research shows it is likely not helpful for prostate symptoms. There is not enough evidence to know if it helps with other health issues.
What does the research say?
A 2023 review looked at 27 studies on men with BPH. It found that the herb provides little or no benefit. Higher doses did not work better than standard ones.
A 2022 review looked at five studies for pelvic pain. It found no clear benefit. Studies on hair loss are too small to reach a conclusion.
What are the side effects of saw palmetto?
Most people handle it well. Side effects are mild and do not happen often. They may include:
- Digestive issues
- Dizziness
- Headache
It does not change tests for prostate-specific antigen (PSA). This is a protein made by the prostate.
How much saw palmetto do people take?
There is no standard dose. Studies have tested different amounts. Some studies used up to three times the usual dose. Talk to your doctor about what is right for you.
Who should not take saw palmetto?
Saw palmetto may be unsafe if you are pregnant. It may also be unsafe if you are breastfeeding.
Talk to your doctor before you take it. This is very important if you take other medicines.
Does saw palmetto have drug interactions?
NCCIH warns that some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways. It does not name specific medicines for saw palmetto.
Always talk to your doctor before using any herb. They can help you make a safe choice.
Common questions about saw palmetto
Does saw palmetto help with prostate problems?
Is saw palmetto safe to take?
Does it cause side effects?
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Where this information comes from
Written from NCCIH, a public-domain resource from the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Information retrieved 2026-08-21.
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