Saw Palmetto
Serenoa repens
Serenoa repens, commonly known as saw palmetto, is a shrub native to southeastern coastal regions of North America. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in specific medical practices. However, it has gained attention for potential benefits related to hair growth and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A proprietary saw palmetto extract showed significant improvements in several hair growth parameters compared to placebo over 90 days in adults with self-perceived thinning hair. Additionally, a combination of Serenoa repens extract and alfuzosin demonstrated greater improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms than alfuzosin alone, with benefits becoming evident from month three onward. While the evidence suggests potential efficacy for improving BPH symptoms, particularly with certain formulations and combinations, results have been variable. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded; however, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and applications.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- A proprietary saw palmetto extract significantly improved several hair growth parameters compared to placebo in adults with self-perceived thinning hair.
- This systematic review found that Serenoa repens showed potential for improving symptoms in benign prostatic disorders, particularly with certain formulations and combination therapies, though results were variable.
- The combination of Serenoa repens extract and alfuzosin showed greater improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms compared to alfuzosin alone, with significant benefits from month 3 onward.
- The study showed significant improvements in hair count and reduction in shedding for those taking the saw palmetto extract compared to placebo, without adverse events.
Frequently asked questions
What is Saw Palmetto?
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Saw Palmetto?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Saw Palmetto; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: A proprietary saw palmetto extract significantly improved several hair growth parameters compared to placebo in adults with self-perceived thinning hair.
How strong is the evidence for Saw Palmetto?
The strongest finding for Saw Palmetto carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Saw Palmetto safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Saw Palmetto in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Saw Palmetto interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Saw Palmetto in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Saw Palmetto?
Saw Palmetto is also known as: Сереноя, Palmier de Floride.
Is Saw Palmetto a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Efficacy of Serenoa repens Extract Combined With Alfuzosin Versus Alfuzosin Alone in Men With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Multicenter Randomized Study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The Safety and Efficacy of a Proprietary Bioactive Fatty Acids Extract From Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) for Promoting Hair Growth and Reducing Hair Loss in Adults With Self-Perceived Thinning Hair: 90-Day Results. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) Extract for Promoting Hair Growth in Adults With Self-Perceived Thinning Hair: 180-Day Results. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Efficacy and safety of Serenoa repens in benign prostatic disorders: a systematic review of recent clinical evidence. literature abstract metadata