Saw Palmetto
Serenoa repens
Serenoa repens, commonly known as saw palmetto, is a native North American plant traditionally used by Native Americans for various purposes, though specific traditional uses in their medicine are not well-documented. Scientific evidence suggests that a proprietary saw palmetto extract may improve hair growth parameters and reduce shedding in adults with self-perceived thinning hair, based on one systematic review. For benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), some studies indicate potential benefits from certain formulations or combination therapies, though results have been variable. A study found significant improvements in hair count and reduction in shedding without adverse events for those taking the saw palmetto extract compared to placebo. Additionally, a combination of Serenoa repens extract and alfuzosin showed greater improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms compared to alfuzosin alone, with benefits becoming noticeable from month 3 onward. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- 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