Saw Palmetto

It plagues more than half of all men over age 50 - an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Symptoms range from inflammation (prostatitis), to swelling, painful and frequent urination. The most common treatment for BPH is surgical removal of the prostate. However, surgical removal of the prostate can lead to impotence or incontinence. Prescription drugs, another treatment for BPH, can also cause diminished sex drive or dizziness. There is some hope, however, in treating the symptoms of an enlarged prostate - saw palmetto.

How It Works

Traditionally used by Native Americans to treat urinary tract infections, saw palmetto is fast becoming an effective means of improving the symptoms of BPH without all the negative side effects caused by medications and surgery. Research has shown that enlargement of the prostate gland is caused mainly by the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) a hormone that is converted from the primary male hormone (testosterone) under the influence of the enzyme testosterone 5-alpha-reductase. The free fatty acids and plant sterol compounds found in saw palmetto berries appear to modify estrogen receptors and block the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

What It Might Do for You

Before self-treating with saw palmetto, be sure to get a proper medical evaluation to rule out prostate cancer. And, make sure you discuss saw palmetto with your healthcare provider to see if it's right for you. What it might do, according to studies conducted in Europe, is cause less urgency to urinate, fewer night trips to the bathroom, and greater urine flow.

Potential Side Effects

Saw palmetto appears to be safe. However, no long-term studies looking at possible side effects in humans have been conducted. Nevertheless, some men have reported upset stomach and headache.

Herb-Drug Interactions

There are no known drug interactions. However, saw palmetto should not be taken in addition to any drug for BPH since they both have the same effects.

Principal Author:

Stefanie Perelman, M.S., R.D., holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master's in clinical dietetics from New York University. A registered dietitian, she presently works at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx and is available for private consultation.

Nutrition Editor:

Donna Tinnerello MS, RD, CD/N is registered dietitian with more than 10 years experience in HIV and nutrition. She works in lower Manhattan at Cabrini Medical Center, the community and in private practice. Her subspecialties are cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal disease, diabetes and weight loss. Donna is available for private consultation by referral only.