Saw palmetto
Also called: Serenoa repens
A palm berry that may lower the effect of androgens (male-type hormones). In women, it is sometimes used for androgen-related hair thinning or PCOS, but evidence is limited.
Commonly used for
- Hair thinning linked to androgens (female pattern hair loss)
- PCOS-related symptoms such as excess hair growth (limited evidence)
- Acne linked to androgens (limited evidence)
Found naturally in
- Saw palmetto berries, from a palm native to the southeastern US
Label red flags
- No fatty acid or sterol standardization listed
- Hair blends with undisclosed amounts
Check with a provider
- Pregnancy, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding. Its anti-androgen effect could affect a developing baby.
- Taking hormonal birth control or hormone therapy
- Taking blood thinners, or planning surgery
- Hair loss that is sudden, patchy, or new. Get it checked first, since thyroid, iron, and autoimmune causes are common.
Supplements that contain it
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Hair
Hair is often one of the first places to show what's happening inside the body. Changes in shedding or thickness can point to nutrient, thyroid, hormone, or autoimmune causes.
Reproductive organs
Your ovaries and uterus shape your cycle, fertility, and hormones. Sex hormones also influence the immune system, one reason autoimmune disease is more common in women.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.