Herbal
Saw Palmetto
Also known as: Permixon, Serenoa repens (hair), Saw Palmetto (PCOS Antiandrogen), Saw Palmetto Extract
Saw palmetto extract is derived from the fruit of Serenoa repens and has been studied primarily for prostate and urinary health support. Evidence suggests modest benefits for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms, though results are mixed and effects may be modest compared to pharmaceutical alternatives.
Primary uses
- Hair loss
- DHT blocking
- Pattern baldness
- Thinning hair
- Hirsutism
- Antiandrogen
- DHT reduction
- Acne (androgen-related)
- BPH/enlarged prostate
- Urinary symptoms
- Prostate health
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms
How it works
- Inhibits 5-alpha reductase
- Reduces DHT
- Anti-inflammatory for prostate
- Improves urinary symptoms
Dosage
- Typical range
- 320mg standardized extract daily (or 160mg 2x)
- Timing
- With meals
- With food
- Yes, fat-soluble
- Duration
- 2-3 months for effect, ongoing
- Special populations
- Men with BPH, urinary symptoms
Forms
- Standardized extract
- Capsules
- Softgels
- Standardized extract 85-95%
- Permixon
- CO2 extract
- Extract powder· 70/100
- Liposterolic extract (LPS)· 70/100
- Tablets· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset
- Headache
- Decreased libido (rare)
Contraindications
- Undiagnosed prostate issues (see doctor first)
- Surgery (blood thinning)
Evidence notes
Strong evidence for BPH symptom improvement
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
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