When to Take Saw Palmetto: Morning or Night?

Thinking about taking Saw Palmetto but unsure whether to take it in the morning or at night? It’s a simple question that many people wonder about, as timing can sometimes affect how well a supplement works—or even impact sleep quality. The good news is: there’s no single “golden hour” to take. Still, choosing a time that fits your body’s rhythm could make a real difference. This article will help you discover the best time to take Saw Palmetto and important tips to get the most out of this popular herbal supplement.

When to Take Saw Palmetto: Morning or Night?

Deciding whether to take Saw Palmetto in the morning or at night can be a bit confusing when you’re first starting out with this herbal supplement. It’s a common question, especially if you’re looking to maximize its health benefits.

Studies on Saw Palmetto show a wide range of dosages and schedules. Some trials use a 320 mg dose of liposterolic extract once daily [1]. For example, a drug interaction study gave healthy volunteers 320 mg at 8 a.m. for 14 days [9].

Meanwhile, another study involving patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) used 160 mg twice a day for three months [13]. In the case of liquid forms or berry-based preparations, the dosage may be divided into three smaller servings throughout the day [7]. This shows that Saw Palmetto can be used flexibly, depending on the product type and the health goal.

Still, experts have not reached a clear consensus on the best time of day to take Saw Palmetto. Many clinical trials have used both morning and evening dosing and still reported benefits, suggesting that timing may not significantly affect its effectiveness [10].

So you can choose the time that works best for your daily routine—as long as you stick to the correct dosage consistently. If you’re in the habit of taking supplements with breakfast, it might be easiest to take Saw Palmetto in the morning.

On the other hand, if evening is when you usually wind down and remember to take your supplements, taking it at night is just as effective.

You might be wondering whether taking Saw Palmetto at night could affect your sleep. The next section will address this concern and give you a clearer picture of how this herb interacts with your body.

Does Saw Palmetto Affect Your Sleep?

Whether you take Saw Palmetto in the morning or at night likely won’t make a major difference in its effectiveness. However, if you choose to take it in the evening, you might wonder whether this herbal supplement could affect your sleep.

Saw Palmetto is commonly used to help ease symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as frequent nighttime urination (also known as nocturia), which can disrupt sleep [3, 9].

By helping to lessen nocturia, Saw Palmetto may indirectly support better sleep quality. That said, research on this benefit is mixed. Some analyses report that Saw Palmetto may reduce nighttime urination in certain people, allowing them to wake up less often during the night [10].

On the other hand, a large study called the STEP trial, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), found that Saw Palmetto didn’t significantly improve urinary symptoms—including nocturia—compared to a placebo [7].

Another clinical trial with 339 participants who were taking 320 mg of Saw Palmetto daily for 72 weeks and found no significant changes in sleep quality (Y;Ikezoe, 2016).

There’s another aspect to consider: Saw Palmetto can sometimes cause mild side effects, including insomnia—although this is rare.

In a study of 305 BPH patients who took 160 mg of Saw Palmetto twice daily for three months, about 5% of participants reported mild side effects, including insomnia [13]. This suggests that in a small number of cases, Saw Palmetto might negatively affect sleep, but this outcome is uncommon.

So, does Saw Palmetto actually affect your sleep? The answer depends on how your body responds to it and your specific health condition.

If you’re dealing with nighttime urination caused by BPH, Saw Palmetto may help improve sleep indirectly, although the results are still debated. On the other hand, if you’re sensitive to supplements and notice trouble sleeping after taking Saw Palmetto, consider switching to morning use instead.

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].

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!