Saw Palmetto Side Effects
Saw palmetto is a commonly used herb that comes from the berries of the saw palmetto plant. The plant is a small palm tree that grows in the southeastern United States. This herb is used to produce a nutritional supplement that is used to treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate, which typically affects men who experience increased nighttime urination and decreased urinary flow. Saw palmetto has also been used to treat stomach problems, bladder irritation and bronchitis.
Gastrointestinal-Related Effects
Some consumers of saw palmetto have experienced side effects related to the gastrointestinal system. According to drugs.com, some users have reported bloody, tarry or black stools while using this nutritional supplement. Clay-colored stools have also occurred in some cases. In addition, some people became nauseated or developed diarrhea or constipation while using this herb. Stomach pain is also a possible occurrence.
Nervous-System-Related Effects
Nervous-system-related side effects have occurred among some users of saw palmetto. According to drugs.com, some individuals have complained of fainting after taking this herbal supplement, as well as unexplained weakness, headaches, dizzyness, sleep problems and depression.
Allergic Reactions
Some people have complained of having an allergic reaction after they ingested saw palmetto. According to drugs.com, some users have suffered from hives on their skin and facial swelling and have had difficulty breathing after using this nutritional supplement. In addition, some have complained of suffering from a swollen tongue and throat.
Other Effects
According to drugs.com, other saw palmetto users have complained about swelling or pain in the breasts or testicles, as well as slow, fast or uneven heartbeats. In addition, some have reported itching, chest pain, loss of appetite, easy bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the eyes and skin, muscle pain, bad breath and decreased interest in sexual activity.
Precautions
According to drugs.com, this herb can be harmful to unborn babies and should not be used by pregnant women, as well as people with a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder or an actively bleeding stomach ulcer. Patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis should also avoid this herb. Patients with liver disease, heart conditions or asthma should discuss this herb with a doctor before starting to use it.
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