What is the recommended dosage for Saw Palmetto?

General: 320 mg/day standardized extract; Skin Acne: 320 mg/day

What are the side effects of Saw Palmetto?

Potential side effects include: Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, Headache (rare), Dizziness (rare).

What is saw palmetto and how may it relate to skin and hair health?

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) contains fatty acids that may inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is involved in androgenetic alopecia and may contribute to acne. Some clinical studies suggest saw palmetto may modestly support hair retention in androgenetic alopecia.

What dosage of saw palmetto has been studied for hair loss?

Clinical studies for hair loss have used 200–320 mg of saw palmetto extract per day, standardized to 85–95% fatty acids. Studies typically lasted 12–24 weeks. A small RCT showed 60% improvement in hair quality with 320 mg daily. The evidence base is smaller and less robust than for finasteride.

What are the potential side effects of saw palmetto?

Common side effects include digestive discomfort, headache, and dizziness. Saw palmetto may interact with hormone therapies and anticoagulants. It may affect PSA levels, which could complicate prostate cancer screening. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid saw palmetto due to anti-androgenic effects.

Saw Palmetto

herb

Also known as: Serenoa repens, Sabal serrulatum, Saw Palmetto Berry Extract

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About

Saw palmetto inhibits 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, reducing conversion of testosterone to DHT, which stimulates sebaceous gland activity. A small study found saw palmetto reduced sebum production and acne severity in young men. Most clinical data is from prostate health studies.

How It Works

Inhibits 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, reducing conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT); DHT stimulates sebaceous gland activity, so reduced DHT levels may decrease sebum production and improve hormonal acne; also has anti-inflammatory properties via COX-2 inhibition.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Acne	D	2	100	View →

Side Effects

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
Headache (rare)
Dizziness (rare)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Anticoagulants (may have mild antiplatelet effects)
Hormonal medications (oral contraceptives, HRT — may interfere)
Finasteride and dutasteride (additive 5-alpha-reductase inhibition)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Aloe Vera Grape Seed Extract Green Tea Extract Turmeric (Curcumin)

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 320 mg/day standardized extract; Skin_Acne: 320 mg/day
Forms: capsule tablet softgel liquid
Natural Sources: Saw palmetto berries (Serenoa repens)
Upper Limit: Not established; generally well-tolerated
Best Time: With meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects

Evidence Summary

Acne D

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.