Saw Palmetto for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Negative Result

369 participants

Symptoms Studied

Lower urinary tract symptoms from enlarged prostate including frequent urination, urgency, weak stream, incomplete bladder emptying, and nocturia.

Research Hypothesis

Saw palmetto may inhibit 5-alpha-reductase and have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing prostate size and urinary symptoms.

Intervention Tested

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) Extract

320mg saw palmetto extract daily (160mg twice daily), standardized to fatty acid content. Some studies tested up to 960mg daily.

Duration: 12-72 weeks

Study Results

Before Treatment

Men over 45 with moderate to severe BPH symptoms as measured by AUA Symptom Index (AUASI) score.

After Treatment

IMPORTANT: No significant difference from placebo. AUASI scores, urinary flow rate, prostate size, and quality of life did not differ between saw palmetto and placebo in high-quality trials.

Timeline to Improvement

Studies up to 72 weeks showed no benefit over placebo even at 3x standard dose

Side Effects

Very well tolerated with minimal adverse effects similar to placebo. This safety profile is the main positive finding.

Source

Saw Palmetto for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Negative Result
Barry MJ, et al. JAMA. 2011;306(12):1344-1351

Conclusion

HIGH-QUALITY EVIDENCE SHOWS SAW PALMETTO IS NOT EFFECTIVE for BPH symptoms. Despite widespread use, rigorous trials show no benefit over placebo. Users should consider other evidence-based options.

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