Saw Palmetto
Drug Uses
Saw Palmetto is used to tone and strengthen male and female reproductive systems. It relieves testicular inflammation, inhibits the hormone responsible for prostate enlargement, and reduces breast tenderness related to breast feeding and menstruation. Saw palmetto also strengthens the thyroid, which controls overall gland function.
How Taken
As a dietary supplement take 1 capsule three times daily with meals and a glass of water.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Saw Palmetto antiseptic and astringent properties help to ease inflamed and irritated tissues of the urinary tract. Expelling toxins and irritants by stimulating urine flow, saw palmetto may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
As an expectorant, Saw Palmetto alleviates coughs and congestion brought on by asthma, bronchitis and colds. metabolism, aid digestion and stimulate the appetite to increase weight gain.Saw Palmetto may also be used to balance the
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Saw Palmetto, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Store Saw Palmetto at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Saw Palmetto out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Warnings/Preautions
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to Saw Palmetto, or have certain conditions. Be sure your doctor knows if you have:
- a bleeding or blood clotting disorder (such as hemophilia);
- stomach ulcer with active bleeding; or
- ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
Before taking saw palmetto, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, herbalist, or other healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this product if you have:
- liver disease;
- heart disease;
- a heart rhythm disorder;
- a history of stomach ulcer; or
- asthma or other breathing disorder.
Do not take saw palmetto without telling your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Saw palmetto may be harmful to an unborn baby. It is not known whether saw palmetto passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without the advice of a doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using saw palmetto and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
- weakness or fainting;
- black, bloody, or tarry stools;
- coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
- pain or swelling in your breasts or testicles;
- chest pain;
- fast, slow, or uneven heart rate;
- easy bruising or bleeding; or
- nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious side effects may include:
- nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
- diarrhea or constipation;
- bad breath;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- sleep problems (insomnia);
- muscle pain;
- depressed mood; or
- increased or decreased interest in sex.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
More Information
A member of the palm family, Saw Palmetto is found in coastal regions, like Texas and Florida. The fruit and seeds of the saw palmetto plant have been used for years to regulate hormonal imbalances, and support and tone the glandular tissues of both men and women.
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