Respiratory: Chronic bronchitis, asthma, laryngitis, nasal inflammation (related to asthma)

Genitourinary: Prostate support, esp. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (treats symptoms like frequent urination, weak stream, bladder inflammation and nighttime urgency - doubtfully shrinking the prostate but reducing the symptoms), urogenital conditions, prostatitis, impotence, decreased libido, increased breast size (?), menstrual complaints. It may help with chronic pelvic pain and hormone imbalances, cystitis, and sperm production (questionable).

Skin: Hair growth (in the case of low testosterone), decreases hirsutism in women

Cancer: May help with some cancers - needs more research.

Other: Diuretic, PCOS

                                                      *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, increased risk of bleeding and bruising, pancreatic and liver problems, sexual problems, headache

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Birth control pills (lessens effectiveness), estrogens/Premarin (possibly decreases effectiveness), blood thinners, NSAIDs

FORMS: Capsules, gelcaps, tablets, drops, suppositories, extracts, teas, topical

Recommended Brands

• Puritan's Pride Saw Palmetto 

• Real Health® Prostate™ Complete 320 mg 

• Trunature® [Costco] Prostate Plus Health Complex (Costco product)

• Douglas Labs Saw Palmetto Max - V (NSF certified) (order here through Fullscript link)

    Some products contain Sito-sterols (plants) with similar properties to saw palmetto-

• NOW® Clinical Strength Prostate Health 320 mg (contains beta sitosterol) 

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Fullscript, Nature Made and Life Extension—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

Dosages

As directed on the product label. Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.

Note: If you have BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy) or symptoms of BPH, discuss use with a healthcare provider.

• Chronic prostatitis: 160 mg extract by mouth 2 times daily or 320 mg once daily

More information about herbal dosages can be found on Epocrates online ($)

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider