Saw Palmetto and hair loss

Saw palmetto is a type of palm tree native to the southeastern United States. Its berries have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly by Native Americans. One of the main uses of saw palmetto is for the treatment of symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In recent years, saw palmetto has also been studied for its potential effects on hair loss.

How does Saw Palmetto work against hair loss?

Hair loss, or alopecia, can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications. One of the most common types of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, which is caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a byproduct of testosterone and is produced in the prostate gland, testes, and hair follicles. In men with androgenetic alopecia, DHT binds to receptors in the hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually stop producing hair.

Saw palmetto is thought to block the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. By inhibiting the production of DHT, saw palmetto may help prevent hair loss and promote the growth of new hair.

Studies on the effect of Saw Palmetto on hair loss

There have been several studies examining the effectiveness of saw palmetto for hair loss. A 2002 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that saw palmetto was effective in improving hair growth and density in men with androgenetic alopecia. A 2008 study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery also found that saw palmetto was effective in promoting hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia.

What type of Saw Palmetto products are available?

Saw palmetto is available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and topical solutions.

Capsules and tablets are the most common form of saw palmetto supplements. These are taken orally and are typically standardized to contain a specific amount of saw palmetto extract. Capsules and tablets are convenient and easy to take, but the dosage can vary depending on the brand.

Tinctures are a liquid form of saw palmetto that are taken orally. They are made by soaking saw palmetto berries in alcohol to extract the active ingredients. Tinctures are generally more concentrated than capsules or tablets and may be more effective, but they may not be suitable for everyone.

Topical solutions, such as creams or lotions, contain saw palmetto extract and are applied directly to the scalp. These may be effective in promoting hair growth, but they may not be as effective as oral supplements in inhibiting the production of DHT.

How much does Saw Palmetto cost on average?

The cost of saw palmetto can vary widely depending on the brand, form, and dosage. On average, a one-month supply of saw palmetto capsules or tablets can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 or more. Tinctures and topical solutions may be more expensive.

What will give me better results? Saw Palmetto or Minoxidil?

There is some evidence to suggest that saw palmetto may be effective in promoting hair growth, particularly in men with androgenetic alopecia. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and determine who may benefit most from its use. Minoxidil is a more established treatment for hair loss and has been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth in some people.