Saw Palmetto - Estradiol Interaction
Herbal: Saw Palmetto
Also Known As: Serenoa repens, American Dwarf Palm Tree, Baies du Palmier Scie, Cabbage Palm, Chou Palmiste, Ju-Zhong, Palmier Nain, Palmier Scie, Sabal, Sabal Fructus, Saw Palmetto Berry
Drug: Estradiol
Brand names:
Estrace, Gynodiol, Vagifem, Estring, Vivelle, Estraderm, Divigel, Evamist, Elestrin, Minivelle, Imvexxy, Oestrogel
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 20, 2025
Interaction Details
Estradiol is classified as belonging to the following category: Estrogens
Saw palmetto might reduce the effectiveness of estrogens.
Saw palmetto might have antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, it might interfere with estrogens taken concomitantly.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
Pharmacist Analysis
There is a possibility that saw palmetto, a commonly used herbal supplement, could have antiestrogenic effects, potentially interfering with estrogen drugs taken simultaneously.
This is based on research indicating that saw palmetto may have a regulatory effect on estrogen levels in the body, which could impact the effectiveness of estrogen-based medications.
More research is certainly needed but saw palmetto should be cautiously with estrogens.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDReferences
- Di Silverio F, D'Eramo G, Lubrano C, et al. Evidence that Serenoa repens extract displays an antiestrogenic activity in prostatic tissue of benign prostatic hypertrophy patients. Eur Urol 1992;21:309-14.
Saw Palmetto Overview
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a plant native to the southeastern United States and a member of the Arecaceae family. It is a small, palm-like tree with fan-shaped leaves that produces small, white flowers. The fruit of the plant is a small, dark purple berry, which is what is used in dietary supplements.
In traditional medicine, saw palmetto has been used to treat a variety of health conditions, including prostate problems (such as BPH [benign prostatic hyperplasia]) and urinary tract disorders. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and to improve hair growth.
Estradiol Overview
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Vaginal estrogen is used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, and burning; painful or difficult urination; and sudden need to urinate immediately in women who are experiencing or have experienced menopause (change of life; the end of monthly menstrual periods). Femring® brand vaginal ring is also used to treat hot flushes ('hot flashes'; sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are experiencing menopause. Premarin® brand vaginal cream is also used to treat kraurosis vulvae (a condition that may cause vaginal dryness and discomfort in women or girls of any age). Imvexxy® brand vaginal inserts are used for the treatment of dyspareunia (difficult or painful sexual intercourse) in menopausal women. Vaginal estrogen is in a class of medications called hormones. It works by replacing estrogen that is normally produced by the body.
Saw Palmetto - More Interactions
Saw Palmetto interacts with 172 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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