Question: Can Saw Palmetto Stop Hair Loss? Effects and side effects

Saw palmetto is dwarf palm plant of North American origin. It is primarily grown in the Atlantic cost in Georgia and Florida. The active ingredients are believed to be in the brown black berries

Saw palmetto’s earlier known use is to treat urinary conditions in men and breast disorders in women, popularly used by Native Americans.

Over a period of time it has evolved to the treatment for the symptoms associated with benign prostate gland enlargement in many parts of Europe and New Zealand. In north America, it is one of alternative herbal remedy for BPH

Saw palmetto gained its popularity for being herbal remedy for treatment of DHT baldness called androgenic alopecia or commonly called male or female pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is typically more at the top of the head or around the temples.

Though there isn’t any scientific evidence available to establish the way it works, it is widely believed to block enzyme ( 5 Alpha dihydrotestorerone. Dihydrotestosterone is considered as key contributing factor to the onset and progression of androgenic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia

Though Saw palmetto has been found the affect the levels of sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen in some ways

To our reader’s amazement, much of the saw palmetto DHT blocker popularity as a resort from hair loss and baldness is based on how it is believed to work than any practical evidence supporting it. Although there are some clinical studies that have shown that saw palmetto could help by inhibiting 5 alpha reeducates, but  there is no well designed clinical studies showing that it can help in hair growth or stop the hair from progressing.

Like every other herbal products, saw palmetto has potential side effects. Common side effects associated with saw palmetto use are mild stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and bad breath. Some men taking saw palmetto have reported erectile dysfunction, breast tenderness or enlargement, and changes in sexual desire.

There arnt much evidence that in humans, saw palmetto may influence levels of sex hormones such estrogen and testosterone. Until we know more, people with hormone sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, should be little cautions. There are also some evidence that It might interfare with oral contraceptives and hormone therapy

At least two case reports have linked saw palmetto with severe bleeding. People with bleeding disorders or who are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications ("blood-thinners")--such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or clopidogrel (Plavix)--should avoid taking saw palmetto unless under medical supervision. It should also be avoided at least two weeks before and after surgery.

The safety of saw palmetto for pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with kidney or liver disease hasn't been established.