When to Take Saw Palmetto: Morning or Night?
There’s no universally “best” time to take Saw Palmetto, what matters most is consistency. Some individuals find it more convenient to take it with breakfast, while others prefer incorporating it into their evening routine.
The key is to choose a time that aligns with your lifestyle and stick with it daily. This article explores the benefits and considerations of evening use in more detail.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Taking it in the morning can be more convenient if you're used to taking supplements with meals.
- Taking it at night is unlikely to cause insomnia for most people, but it's worth testing your personal reaction. Saw Palmetto may indirectly improve sleep by reducing nighttime urination caused by BPH.
- Sticking to the correct dose and taking it consistently every day matters more than the time of day you take it. A common dose is 320 mg per day.
- Taking it with food may help reduce stomach discomfort and improve absorption.
- Choose a standardized extract form to ensure effectiveness.
When to Take Saw Palmetto: Morning or Night?
The best time to take Saw Palmetto isn’t necessarily in the morning or at night. It depends on personal habits, as what matters most is consistent daily use.
Although there are variations in dosing schedules across studies, there is still no clear consensus on the most effective time to take it.
For example, one drug interaction study had healthy participants take Saw Palmetto at 8 a.m. for 14 consecutive days [9], while another study used a divided dose of twice daily [13]. In liquid form, the dosage may be split into several smaller servings throughout the day [7].
Many trials using both morning and evening dosing have shown positive results, suggesting that timing may not significantly impact overall effectiveness [10].
Therefore, you should choose the time that best fits your daily routine, whether it’s with breakfast in the morning or during your evening wind-down, as long as you maintain consistent, proper dosing. The next section will explore whether taking Saw Palmetto at night affects sleep.
Does Saw Palmetto Affect Your Sleep?
Saw Palmetto may affect your sleep, as it has the potential to both improve sleep quality and, in rare cases, cause insomnia.
Saw Palmetto may indirectly help you sleep more deeply and wake up less frequently, as it is commonly used to reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), especially nocturia, a frequent cause of disrupted sleep [3, 9]. Some analyses have also reported positive effects in certain users [10].
However, research findings remain mixed. The large-scale STEP study funded by the NIH found that Saw Palmetto did not significantly improve nighttime urination compared to a placebo [7]. Similarly, another trial involving 339 participants who took 320 mg daily for 72 weeks showed no notable changes in sleep quality (Y; Ikezoe, 2016).
In addition, although uncommon, Saw Palmetto may cause mild side effects such as insomnia. In a study of 305 BPH patients who took 160 mg twice daily for three months, around 5% reported experiencing sleep difficulties [13].
In summary, the effects of Saw Palmetto on sleep vary depending on individual health and body response. If you experience trouble sleeping after taking it at night, consider switching to a morning dose to see how your body reacts.
On the other hand, if you suffer from nocturia, this herb may provide indirect benefits for your sleep, though more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Health Benefits of Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto is widely known for its health-supporting properties, especiallyfor prostate, urinary, and hair-related concerns. Below are the main benefits of Saw Palmetto, explained in simple terms for easy understanding.
The most well-known benefit of Saw Palmetto is its support for prostate health, particularly in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in older men [1].
Saw Palmetto works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which helps reduce the conversion of testosterone into DHT—a hormone linked to prostate enlargement [1].
It also has anti-inflammatory effects and may contribute to limiting the thickening of the prostate’s inner lining, helping relieve pressure on the urinary tract [10].
However, it's important to note that some high-quality studies, such as the CAMUS and STEP trials, have shown that Saw Palmetto is not always more effective than a placebo in relieving BPH symptoms (Zeiger, E., & Tice, R,1997).
In addition to its prostate benefits, Saw Palmetto is also used to help with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), such as difficulty urinating or frequent urination [8]. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and its impact on receptors related to urinary function, this herb may help ease discomfort in the urinary tract [10].
One study on healthy Japanese men reported that Saw Palmetto helped reduce subjective urinary symptoms, improving daily comfort [8].
Another noteworthy benefit of Saw Palmetto is its potential to help manage hormone-related hair loss, known as androgenetic alopecia (AGA), which affects both men and women [4].
By inhibiting the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, Saw Palmetto lowers DHT levels—a major cause of hormonal hair loss [4]. It may also help limit the binding of testosterone and DHT to androgen receptors, which may in turn support the protection of hair follicles [6]. This makes Saw Palmetto a promising natural option for those looking to support hair health.
Finally, Saw Palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce inflammation in the body by inhibiting enzymes like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase [6, 10]. These benefits make Saw Palmetto a popular choice for supporting overall wellness.
However, to get the most out of it, it's important to use it correctly. The next section will guide you on how to take Saw Palmetto for the best results.
Read more: 5 Best Saw Palmetto Supplements for Hormone Balance
How to Take Saw Palmetto Properly
Forms of Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto is available in a variety of forms, from oral supplements to topical applications, offering flexibility for different user preferences. Each form has its own pros and cons, helping you choose what works best based on your goals and daily habits.
- Berries (fresh, partially dried, or dried): This is the most natural form of Saw Palmetto and has been used in traditional medicine [1]. It appeals to those who prefer a minimalist, nature-based approach. However, it's difficult to measure an accurate dose with this form, and its distinctive taste might be off-putting for long-term use.
- Berry extract: This is the most common form, typically made as a liposterolic extract or using supercritical CO2 extraction technology [1, 5]. These are favored for their concentrated active compounds and consistent potency, especially in commercial products. On the downside, they tend to be more expensive due to the complex processing, and it’s important to verify the source to avoid low-quality products.
- Saw Palmetto oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids and sterols, and it’s available in capsule form or as a topical product [10]. The oil is easily absorbed and offers versatility for both internal health and external care, such as for the scalp. However, some users may experience stomach discomfort, and the oil must be stored properly to maintain quality.*
- Powder, liquid tinctures, and tea: Powdered berries, liquid tinctures, and tea made from dried berries offer different ways to consume Saw Palmetto [10]. Powders and tinctures are easy to mix into foods or drinks, ideal for those who enjoy customizing their intake. Tea offers a calming, herbal experience. That said, these forms may not always deliver consistent levels of active compounds, and effectiveness depends on how they’re prepared.
- Topical applications: These include creams, shampoos, masks, conditioners, scalp serums, massage blends, and ointments, often used to support hair loss, seborrheic dermatitis, or acne [6, 13]. These products are easy to incorporate into your personal care routine and act directly on targeted areas with minimal systemic effects. However, results may take time and depend on product quality, requiring patience and consistency.
- Tablets and capsules: This includes softgel capsules, which are a convenient option for busy lifestyles [9, 10]. With standardized dosages, they make it easy to stick to a routine without needing to measure. However, some people may find larger pills hard to swallow, and it’s important to check for unwanted additives in the product.*
How Much Saw Palmetto Should You Take Daily?
The most common dosage used in clinical trials is 320 mg of liposterolic extract per day, which is equivalent to about 20 grams of raw berries [1]. This is the standard dose, typically used in capsules or tablets, and is suitable for purposes such as supporting prostate health.
However, some sources suggest higher doses, ranging from 800 to 1200 mg per day, with recommendations to maintain this dose for at least 4-6 months to see significant results, especially for chronic issues [6].
For capsules, a daily dose of 400 mg has also been noted, or for topical use, a 5 mL solution containing 20% standardized Saw Palmetto oil is a common choice [4].
If you prefer more natural forms, Saw Palmetto tea is an interesting option. You can steep 0.5–1.0 grams of dried berries in 150 mL of boiling water, let it cool, and drink 1–2 cups per day [7].
For liquid tinctures, the dosage typically ranges from 0.6–1.5 mL per day, easily mixed into water or other beverages (Kane et al., 2011). These forms provide a gentler experience, but it’s important to measure carefully to ensure effectiveness.
When selecting a product, be sure to check the label to ensure the Saw Palmetto extract is standardized and contains 85–95% fatty acids and sterols, as quality can vary between manufacturers [5, 10].
Should You Take Saw Palmetto with or without Food?
Taking Saw Palmetto with food may help support digestive comfort, particularly when using capsules or extracts rich in fatty acids. A small meal with fat can help with better absorption.
However, you can also take it on an empty stomach if you feel comfortable and experience no issues. To be sure, check the instructions on the product packaging or consult with a doctor, especially if you have a sensitive digestive system or are taking other medications.
Choosing the right way to use Saw Palmetto will help you make the most of its benefits. Next, let's explore how this herb can be combined with other herbs to support your health.
Can You Combine Saw Palmetto with Other Herbs?
Combining natural ingredients is a popular way to support health, and Saw Palmetto has been studied in various formulations.
Saw Palmetto is often combined with other herbs to support prostate health and related issues. For example, Saw Palmetto extract has been studied in combination with nettle root to improve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) [7].
A formulation called Curbicin, which combines Saw Palmetto with pumpkin seeds (also believed to be beneficial for BPH), has been tested with positive results (Kane et al., 2011).
Additionally, another study explored the combination of Saw Palmetto, rye grass, beta-sitosterol, and vitamin E, suggesting it may help alleviate BPH symptoms when compared to a placebo [7].
In the field of hair care, Saw Palmetto is also combined with supplements to help slow down hormone-related hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). Some formulations combine Saw Palmetto with vitamins (A, E, C), minerals, or silicon to enhance hair and scalp health [4].
Explore more: Saw Palmetto vs. Finasteride: Hair Loss in Men and Women
These formulas are designed to provide comprehensive support, utilizing Saw Palmetto's anti-androgenic properties along with other nutrients.
Notably, another formula combining Saw Palmetto, Diindolylmethane (DIM), and Spearmint has been reported to offer specific benefits for overall health, especially for women.
In this formula, Saw Palmetto inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, helping to reduce the production of DHT – a hormone that can affect hormonal balance. DIM, extracted from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, supports estrogen metabolism, helping to maintain hormonal stability, particularly useful for women dealing with issues related to the menstrual cycle or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
You may also like: Saw Palmetto For PCOS: Does It Help And How To Use It?
Spearmint contributes to regulating androgen levels, increasing hormones like luteinizing hormone and estradiol, which in turn supports hormonal balance and overall health. When combined with zinc, Saw Palmetto enhances hormonal regulation, offering significant benefits for women's health. One user was particularly impressed by this formula and shared:
"This formula works great for me. I’ve been taking it for about three months now and have had three consecutive periods all come on the same day. This is huge because I went about four months without a period and when they did come they would come whenever it wanted. My facial hair growth also slowed DRAMATICALLY. Highly recommend"* - Jada
Regarding safety, Saw Palmetto is considered safe for most people, with rare and usually mild side effects [2]. More importantly, one source confirms that there are no recorded interactions between Saw Palmetto and other herbs, foods, or supplements [10].
However, to ensure compatibility with your individual health condition, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before combining Saw Palmetto with any other herbs or supplements.
How Long Does It Take for Saw Palmetto to Work?
The time it takes for Saw Palmetto to show results depends on the intended use:
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): For mild to moderate BPH, Saw Palmetto may help improve symptoms such as difficulty urinating within 30-45 days which is much faster than many medications (6-12 months) [13]. However, studies often recommend using it for 3-6 months to achieve significant and stable results [1, 6].
- Hormonal Hair Loss: One study found that using Saw Palmetto (both oral and topical) for 16 weeks (about 4 months) helped reduce hair loss and increase hair density [4].
- Pre-Surgery Prostate Support: Using Saw Palmetto daily for 2 months before surgery may help support a smoother procedure by potentially lessening surgery time and related complications [10].
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Saw Palmetto make you sleepy?
Saw Palmetto may cause fatigue in some individuals, potentially leading to a feeling of sleepiness. This effect is likely related to its phytosterol content, which can act as anti-androgens and may contribute to side effects like low energy, headaches, and reduced motivation.
2. What should you not take with Saw Palmetto?
Avoid taking Saw Palmetto with estrogen therapy or oral contraceptives, as it may reduce their effectiveness. It can also interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, anticoagulants, or antiplatelet drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding.
3. What happens if I take saw palmetto everyday?
Taking Saw Palmetto daily is likely safe for most people when used by mouth for up to 3 years. Side effects are generally mild and may include dizziness, headache, nausea, or diarrhea. If used rectally, it's considered possibly safe for up to 30 days, but long-term safety through this method remains unclear [14].
4. Does saw palmetto make you pee more?
Not necessarily. In fact, Saw Palmetto may help reduce symptoms of an overactive bladder, including frequent urination, urgency, and incontinence, by supporting urinary tract function.
Conclusion
Whether you take Saw Palmetto in the morning or at night is less important than taking it consistently and at the proper dosage each day. People may react differently—some find it easier to remember in the morning, while others prefer it in the evening for relaxation and convenience.
Listen to your body and choose the time that works best for you. If you've used Saw Palmetto, feel free to share when you take it and why—your experience might be helpful to others!
Testimonial Disclaimer
*The testimonials presented on this website are provided by individuals based on their personal experiences with our products. These testimonials represent individual opinions and experiences, which may not be typical or applicable to all users of our products. Results may vary depending on a variety of factors, including individual health, lifestyle, and adherence to product usage instructions.References
- [1] Ernst, E. (2002). The Risk–Benefit Profile of Commonly Used Herbal Therapies: Ginkgo, St. John’s Wort, Ginseng, Echinacea, Saw Palmetto, and Kava. Annals of Internal Medicine, 136(1), 42. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-136-1-200201010-00010
- [2] Evron, E., Juhasz, M., Babadjouni, A., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2020). Natural hair supplement: Friend or foe? Saw Palmetto, a systematic review in alopecia. Skin Appendage Disorders, 6(6), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1159/000509905
- [3] Glickman-Simon, R., & Withy, K. (2012). Saw Palmetto, Chinese Red Yeast Extract, Music Therapy, Ginkgo Biloba, Increased Practitioner Interaction. EXPLORE, 8(2), 138–140. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2011.12.012
- [4] Heggar Venkataramana Sudeep, S Rashmi, Jestin, T. V., Richards, A., Kuluvar Gouthamchandra, & Kodimule Shyamprasad. (2023). Oral and Topical Administration of a Standardized Saw Palmetto Oil Reduces Hair Fall and Improves the Hair Growth in Androgenetic Alopecia Subjects – A 16-Week Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Volume 16, 3251–3266. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s435795
- [5] Ishii, I., Wada, T., & Takara, T. (2020). Effects of Saw Palmetto fruit extract intake on improving urination issues in Japanese men: A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study. Food Science & Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.1654
- [6] Kalwat, J. I. (2019). The Use of Serenoa Repens (Saw Palmetto) in Hair Care Products. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.26717/bjstr.2019.13.002348
- [7] Kane, C. J., Raheem, O. A., Bent, S., & Avins, A. L. (2011). What Do I Tell Patients About Saw Palmetto for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia? Urologic Clinics of North America, 38(3), 261–277. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ucl.2011.04.005
- [8] Kimura, M., Ishii, I., Baba, A., & Takara, T. (2024). Beneficial effects of Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) fruit extract on the urinary symptoms of healthy Japanese adults with possible lower urinary tract symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrition and Health. https://doi.org/10.1177/02601060241265389
- [9] Markowitz, J. (2003). Multiple doses of Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) did not alter cytochrome P450 2D6 and 3A4 activity in normal volunteers. Clinical Pharmacology &Therapeutics, 74(6), 536–542. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clpt.2003.08.010
- [10] Richards, J., & Joanne, J. (2015). Chapter 4: Overview of Herbal Supplements 5 Contact Hours. https://s3.amazonaws.com/EliteCME_WebSite_2013/f/pdf/RPTAZ05HSI14.pdf
- [11] Sebu, Sarma, S. N., Siwach, D., Hasan, A., Mittal, P., & Paul, P. (2022). Systematic Review on Safety and Efficacy of Saw Palmetto as a Health Supplement for Prostate Health in Adult Males. Journal of Current Medical Research and Opinion, 5(06), 1252–1270. https://doi.org/10.52845/CMRO/2022/5-6-3
- [12] Yang, Y., Ikezoe, T., Zheng, Z., Taguchi, H., Koeffler, H. P., & Zhu, W.-G. (2007). Saw Palmetto induces growth arrest and apoptosis of androgen-dependent prostate cancer LNCaP cells via inactivation of STAT 3 and androgen receptor signaling. International Journal of Oncology, 31(3), 593–600. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17671686/
- [13] Zeiger, E., & Tice, R. (1997). Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) and One of Its Constituent Sterols -Sitosterol [83-46-5] Review of Toxicological Literature Prepared for Submitted by. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/ntp/htdocs/chem_background/exsumpdf/sawpalmetto_508.pdf
- [14] SAW PALMETTO: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. (2022). Webmd.com. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-971/saw-palmetto
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