Saw palmetto is a popular natural supplement often used to help reduce hair loss, particularly in cases of male and female pattern baldness. It is derived from the berries of the Serenoa repens plant and is believed to work by blocking the activity of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone known to contribute to hair thinning and loss.
By potentially lowering DHT levels in the scalp, saw palmetto may help slow the progression of hair loss and support healthier hair growth. Some studies and anecdotal reports suggest that regular use of saw palmetto supplements or topical products may improve hair density and reduce shedding over time. However, the scientific evidence remains limited compared to well-established treatments like finasteride or minoxidil.
What is Saw Palmetto?
Saw Palmetto is a plant extract from the fruit of a small palm tree (Serenoa repens or Sabal serrulata). It is often associated with health problems such as enlarged prostate, but it is also used to treat other conditions such as hair loss. Saw Palmetto’s active ingredients include fat-soluble phytosterols, serenoa acids and polysaccharides. Specifically, in the treatment of hair loss, Saw Palmetto is thought to reduce DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels and reduce the potential for this hormone to damage hair follicles. For this reason, it is preferred as a natural solution for hair loss treatment, believing that it has positive effects on hair health. However, more research needs to be done on the efficacy of Saw Palmetto and the scientific evidence in this area is not yet completely clear.
When’s The Best Time Of Day To Take Saw Palmetto?
The best time of day to take saw palmetto is generally with a meal, preferably during breakfast or lunch. Taking it with food can help improve absorption and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort, which some people may experience if taken on an empty stomach.
What are the Benefits of Saw Palmetto?
- May support prostate health.
- May help reduce hair loss.
- May reduce inflammation.
- May relieve urinary tract symptoms.
- May support hormone balance.
- May improve skin health.
The enlargement of the prostate is the result of overworking 5-alpha reductase (5-AR), an enzyme in the body responsible for the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is also a hormone associated with hair loss, so reducing 5-AR production may help prevent hair loss.
Does Saw Palmetto Work for Hair Loss?
Although hair loss is usually due to genetic predisposition, it can be affected by factors such as certain medical conditions, hormonal changes, medication use and stress. At the root of hair loss is the conversion of the hormone testosterone into a molecule called DHT. This conversion causes the hair follicles to shrink and consequently hair loss. Because men have higher levels of the hormone testosterone than women, hair loss is more common in men.
Saw palmetto supplements are often preferred to balance hormone levels and thus prevent hair loss. Saw palmetto can block the activity of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts the hormone testosterone into another hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is linked to hair loss. In this way, it is thought that it may reduce hair loss.
In a review study, oral and topical supplements containing saw palmetto improved hair quality by 60%, increased total hair count by 27%, and increased hair density in 83% of people with hair loss.
Although some studies suggest that saw palmetto has hair growth promoting effects, more research is needed in this regard.
How to Use Saw Palmetto Against Hair Loss?
In order to use saw palmetto in an effective dose, dried ripe fruits or preparations prepared from these fruits are usually used. The daily dosage is usually between 160 and 320 mg. Standardized products should be preferred because they usually contain 85 to 95% fatty acids and sterols.
Saw palmetto-containing products are available in pharmacies or in different forms such as dried fruits, tea, powdered capsules, tablets or liquid tinctures. However, since fatty acids are insoluble in water, consuming saw palmetto as a tea may not be effective.
People taking medication for any health problem should not use products containing saw palmetto without consulting a doctor.
The above information is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional should always be consulted before starting any treatment. Like any supplement, it is your doctor who will determine that this supplement is suitable and safe for you.
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