Side Effects of Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto, a small palm, commonly found in the southeastern United States, has a long history as a herbal medicine. The extract of the berries of this palm has been used in the treatment of many diseases like benign prostatic hyperplasia and urinary tract infections. It has also been suggested that this herb is useful in the treatment of androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), for breast enlargement, increasing sex drive, etc. Even though, there is no scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of the herb, it is widely used by people as a herbal supplement, for various health problems.

The popularity of this herb does not indicate the associated side effects. There are many reports of people affected by the negative effects of this herb. The following are the side effects of using saw palmetto extract.

• The most common side effects are bad breath, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation and loss of appetite.
• Saw palmetto may also cause dizziness, headaches and breast tenderness.
• There are some reports of women experiencing weight gain, after taking saw palmetto extract for breast enlargement.
• Even though, the promoters of this herb vouch for its effectiveness in increasing the sex drive, many users have reported erectile dysfunction, impotence and decreased sex drive as its after effects.
• Some people may develop serious reactions like the inflammation of the liver or the pancreas, jaundice, unusual bruising or bleeding and stomach ulcers.
• Allergic reactions may also occur, like hives, rashes, itching, wheezing, a swollen mouth and difficulty in breathing.
• Some people experience depression, insomnia, high blood pressure and hearts problems too.
• It is believed that a component of saw palmetto extract called beta-sitosterol, which is similar to cholesterol, may increase the risk or severity of heart disease in men.

Apart from the side effects, intake of saw palmetto along with other drugs can also create complications. Saw palmetto should be avoided in men, who are taking medications that affect hormonal imbalance or the sex hormones. Women, who use birth control pills or who undergo hormone therapies, should abstain from taking saw palmetto extract. People with some medical conditions like asthma or breathing problems, heart diseases, stomach ulcers, ulcerative colitis, blood clotting disorder, etc. If you are allergic to this herb, then it is better to avoid saw palmetto extract. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid the intake of this herb. This prohibition is also applicable for those who are planning to have babies.

Side effects of this drug may vary from person to person. Apart from the above said ill effects, other problems may also happen. Some negative effects are caused due to contaminated products. Some products of saw palmetto extract may contain toxic metals or other drugs, which can cause health problems. Saw palmetto is not approved by the FDA and there is no scientific proof for its efficacy, purity and safety. Hence, it is always better to seek the advice of your doctor before trying this herb. It is also important to evaluate the medical history of the person, before starting any treatment with saw palmetto to avoid any complications.