Is Serenoa repens (saw palmetto) a safe and effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia?


This study examined if Serenoa repens (commonly known as saw palmetto) is a safe and effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This study concluded that Serenoa repens is a safe and effective treatment for BPH.

BPH is a non-cancerous overgrowth of the prostate. These patients are commonly bothered by lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as dribbling of urine, and incomplete bladder emptying. Serenoa repens plant extract has been suggested as a possible treatment for urinary symptoms associated with BPH (known as LUTS/BPH). The safety and effectiveness of Serenoa repens for benign prostatic hyperplasia remains under investigation.

354 patients with LUTS/BPH were included in this study. 159 patients received Serenoa repens extract, and 166 patients received a placebo. Patients were treated over a 24 week period.  

There was a significant improvement in many LUTS/BPH symptoms in the Serenoa repens group, compared to those taking a placebo. These included an improvement in the flow of urine. Patients taking Serenoa repens had a decrease in symptoms related to urine storage and the passing of urine.  There was a greater improvement in sexual function and erectile function in the Serenoa repens group compared with the placebo group. Quality of life improved in both groups. 

Side effects were uncommon in both groups. Two patients in the Serenoa repens treatment group experienced mild stomach discomfort and poor appetite. One patient receiving Serenoa repens developed a mild cough. 

The authors concluded that Serenoa repens is a safe and effective treatment for LUTS/BPH.

This study included Chinese men. The results may not apply to other ethnicities.