Hair Loss Saw Palmetto

Though men don't often admit they are self conscious about their appearance, physical signs of aging are likely affecting their self image and confidence.

Hair loss may be one of the most annoying and embarrassing issues men may deal with.

While comedians and the dreaded comb over may make light of the issue, it's really no laughing matter.

When it comes to hair loss saw palmetto is a promising treatment option.

As a completely natural product, saw palmetto for hair loss has been shown to be safe and effective.

What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw palmetto extract is made from its berries, where most of the beneficial compounds are found. Saw palmetto for hair loss has been used for hundreds of years.

The herb has been used by Native Americans to treat ailments as varied as prostate problems, urinary infections, breast issues as well as male pattern baldness.

How Does Saw Palmetto Work?

DHT is thought to be responsible for most of the cases of male pattern baldness. It is also thought saw palmetto may interfere with DHT's ability to attach to cells.

Male pattern baldness is indicated by thinning around the temples and the top of the head. Baldness that manifests itself in other ways will likely not respond to hair loss saw palmetto treatments.

There have been several small studies testing saw palmetto's effectiveness for balding. All patients had light to moderate thinning and the studies showed promising results. In all cases, saw palmetto was taken internally. A topical application has not yet been tested.

What are the Potential Side Effects of Saw Palmetto?

Saw palmetto for hair loss is most likely to cause;

- Indigestion
- Diarrhea
- Pain in the stomach
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping

However, some patients report more serious side effects, including;

- Heart problems
- Breathing issues
- Depression
- Vomiting

Because saw palmetto is connected with the hormonal system, side effects like sexual dysfunction are also possible. If hormone related cancers run in your family, be especially cautious when treating hair loss with saw palmetto.

If you suffer from male pattern baldness, saw palmetto for hair loss may slow down your thinning. However, it hasn't been tested as extensively as many standard treatments for baldness.

It's most likely to help you if your balding is at the early stages and hasn't progressed very far. Saw palmetto is more likely to slow down balding than it is to reverse an already apparent problem.