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

CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS

• Puritan's Pride Saw Palmetto (order from Amazon link here)

• Real Health® Prostate™ Complete 320 mg (order from Amazon here)

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

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

• NOW® Clinical Strength Prostate Health 320 mg (contains beta sitosterol) (order form Amazon here)

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 Amazon—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

Reported doses – May NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label. If you have BPH or symptoms of BPH, discuss use with a healthcare provider.

• Chronic prostatitis: 160 mg by mouth 2 times daily

It is recommended that you discuss your symptoms with your primary healthcare provider before taking this.

*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