Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto was found to be effective in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and potentially stimulating hair growth. Clinical studies, including randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, showed significant improvements in urinary symptoms and flow rates in men with BPH, with one study involving 110 men and another with 85 men. A small trial with 10 subjects indicated that 60% experienced significant hair growth. Adverse effects were generally mild, but two case reports linked saw palmetto to serious conditions like cholestatic hepatitis and intraoperative hemorrhage. Pharmacokinetic data showed peak plasma concentration 1.5 hours after oral administration, and saw palmetto did not affect several cytochrome P450 enzymes. It was approved in Germany for certain urinary problems and considered a dietary supplement by the FDA.