Saw Palmetto

The product is available in several delivery forms, tailored to users' preferences: dwarf palm capsules, tablets or oral powder. There is also the form of dwarf palm oil for topical application. The dwarf palm extract content varies, with most products ranging from 160 mg to 540 mg.

Manufacturers - Solgar, Secom, AdNatura, Vitaking, GNC, Adams Vision, Natures Aid etc.

Saw palmetto is mainly used to treat and prevent prostate health problems, but it also has other applications:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): is used to reduce the symptoms caused by benign enlargement of the prostate, such as frequent urination or difficulty passing urine. BPH is common in older men, affecting up to 75% of men in their 70s.

• Improved urinary function: by reducing inflammation and relieving tension in the urinary tract, Saw palmetto can improve urinary tract health.

• Hormonal balance: it can help regulate testosterone levels and is used by both men and women to maintain hormonal balance.

• Promoting healthy hair: in some cases, Saw palmetto may reduce hair loss associated with a hormonal imbalance or androgenetic alopecia. It works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen-like hormone thought to cause this form of hair loss.

For capsules or tablets, the typical dose is 160 mg of standardized extract twice daily, usually equivalent to 85-95% fatty acids. 

In the case of Saw palmetto Secom, the manufacturer's recommendation is 1-2 capsules per day with meals.

Always consult your doctor's advice before taking Saw palmetto to ensure your safety and the right dose for your needs.

Saw Palmetto is generally considered safe for most people, but there are some contraindications:

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use this supplement as it may affect hormone balance.
2. People with clotting problems: Saw palmetto may have an anticoagulant effect, which means it can increase the risk of bleeding.
3. Use before surgery: it is recommended to discontinue use of Saw palmetto at least two weeks before surgery due to the increased risk of bleeding.

Taking the supplement with food is recommended, which can minimize digestive problems and prevent side effects.

It is important to stick to the recommended dose and monitor your body's reactions, especially during the first few weeks of use.

If you suffer from severe chronic diseases, it is advisable to seek medical advice before use.

Although Saw palmetto is generally well tolerated, there are some minor side effects that may occur:

• Digestive upset: nausea, stomach pain or diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness

Saw Palmetto may interact with certain medicines in particular:

1. Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs: may increase the risk of bleeding when used with blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin or aspirin.
2. Hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapies: some contraceptive pills contain oestrogen, and Saw palmetto could reduce the effects of oestrogen in the body.

There are no well-documented reports of Saw palmetto overdose. 

However, excessive use may increase the risk of digestive side effects or headaches. 

Saw palmetto should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

• WebMD, Saw Palmetto - Uses, side effects 
• Healthline, What is Saw palmetto? Prostate health and other uses
• NIH, Saw palmetto
• Drugs.com, Saw palmetto