Bootie asked
What are the side effects of saw palmetto? I want to use it for an enlarged prostate.
Answer
Overall, studies show that short term use (3-5 years) of saw palmetto is generally well tolerated and largely free of adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effects are as follows:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Loss of libido
Many of the above gastrointestinal side effects may be lessened by taking your saw palmetto product with food.
There have been isolated case reports of more serious side effects, but it is unknown whether or not saw palmetto was a major factor in them happening. Below, we list some of the potentially rare side effects that have been reported.
Saw Palmetto Side Effects
Cardiovascular
There are rare reports of certain cardiovascular side effects such as hypertension and angina. Here is a link to one of the larger studies that reported these adverse effects: Study. In that study, 3.1% of the test participants using saw palmetto noticed elevated levels of blood pressure vs. 2.2% in those not taking saw palmetto.
Endocrine
There is some concern that saw palmetto may posses mild anti androgenic effects, much like a popular BPH drug Propecia (finasteride). This could be the reason some people experience a loss of libido. Sexual dysfunction (i.e. impotence, premature ejaculation) may also be an adverse reaction due tothe anti-androgenic effects.
Hematologic
The FDA has received very rare case reports of bleeding episodes in those taking saw palmetto. One such case report can be found here: Case Report.
Overall however, saw palmetto is one of the most widely used natural products and has a very strong history of safe use. If you have further questions regarding its use or interactions with medications, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
