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Saw Palmeto Side Effects

Saw palmetto is a plant that grows in the southeastern United States. The berries are the component of the plant used to make the medicinal product. Saw palmetto is generally used to alleviate symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, and is sometimes also used in the treatment of decreased urinary flow. It has also found use as a treatment for stomach pains, intestinal issues, bronchitis and bladder irritation.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • Some of the common side effects of using saw palmetto may include cramping, diarrhea, impotence, nausea, difficulty with urination and stomach pain. These can occur because of the anti-inflammatory effects of saw palmetto. To alleviate these symptoms, stop taking saw palmetto. Consult your doctor if you are taking any prescription medications while on saw palmetto, as these side effects may be occurring because of interactions between the prescription drug and the saw palmetto.

    Pregnancy

    • Saw palmetto should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding without first consulting a medical professional, as saw palmetto may be unsafe for a fetus and a nursing infant. Do not give this or any other herbal supplement to a child or baby without first consulting a medical professional.

    Severe Side Effects

    • Some users of saw palmetto may experience severe side effects, including swelling in the face, lips and mouth. Additionally, saw palmetto may interact with other drugs or herbal medications you are taking. In addition, abnormal fatigue, jaundice, dark-colored urine and pale stools are sign of severe reactions to saw palmetto. If any of these symptoms occur, contact a medical professional immediately.

    Warning

    • Before beginning a regimen that includes the ingestion of saw palmetto, ask for a BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) diagnosis from your doctor. BPH is another term for prostate cancer. If you are over 50 years old, make sure that you schedule a routine prostate exam each year. When taking saw palmetto, it is important to understand that it is not a medicine and should be considered as an herbal reliever.

    Hormonal and Sexual Side Effects

    • In some men and women, saw palmetto can cause sexual and hormonal issues, including difficulty maintaining an erection, a change in overall desire to have sex and breast tenderness. These side effects occur most often in men and women who are also taking hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or Propecia.

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