TLDR Saw palmetto is not proven to improve urinary flow, prostate size, or hair loss.
Saw palmetto extracts were primarily used to alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), but evidence for its effectiveness was contradictory. A Cochrane Review concluded that saw palmetto did not improve urinary flow or prostate size. A pilot trial with 82 patients showed significant improvement in BPH symptoms and sexual dysfunction after 8 weeks of treatment. Pre-clinical studies indicated anti-androgenic, anti-inflammatory, and muscle relaxing effects. Adverse effects were generally mild and infrequent. There was no strong evidence supporting its use for hair loss.
67 citations,
February 2015 in “Life Sciences” Some plant-based treatments can help with benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms, but more research is needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
35 citations,
May 2020 in “Frontiers in Pharmacology” Different drugs for prostate-related urinary symptoms work but have various side effects, and treatment should be tailored to the individual.
6 citations,
May 2022 in “Research and reports in urology” Caesalpinia bonduc seed extracts may help treat enlarged prostate in rats.
39 citations,
September 2013 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Herbs can potentially treat hair loss by inhibiting a key enzyme and promoting hair growth, and deficiencies in zinc, biotin, and iron are linked to hair loss.
November 2023 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Saw palmetto extract reduced hair loss and improved hair growth in people with hair thinning.
