Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss

Taking saw palmetto for hair loss is a popular option for consumers wanting a more natural treatment for balding.

A dwarf palm, saw palmetto is native to North America, primarily along the Atlantic seaboard in the states of Georgia and Florida.

The plant's berries hold its medicinal powers.

The plant has a long history of use among Native Americans.

The theory behind using saw palmetto is it inhibits an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase.

DHT and Hair Loss

In the body, this enzyme plays a role in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the culprit behind male pattern hair loss. By inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, DHT levels are kept in check.

The herb is also believed to reduce absorption of the hormone DHT. Cells contain special receptor sites which are necessary to absorb hormones.

Saw palmetto targets and blocks the receptor sites for DHT. This renders DHT useless. Without the ability to be absorbed by cells, it can not be used.

Saw Palmetto Studies

In a study published in the April 2002 issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, researchers examined the benefits of saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, more commonly known as male pattern hair loss.

Study participants were healthy men aged 23 to 64 with mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia. Researchers found that 60% of study participants showed improvement in hair growth after treatment.

They concluded that these naturally occurring 5-alpha reductase inhibitors were effective against androgenetic alopecia. Although more research is needed, the study does lend credence to the theory that taking saw palmetto for hair loss will help.

As with any medications, natural or pharmaceutical, there is the likelihood of side effects. While not all users will be affected, some may be.

Saw Palmetto Side Effects

Common side effects of saw palmetto may include bad breath, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and mild abdominal pain. There have been reports from some users of decreased sexual desire, erectile problems and breast tenderness.

Since saw palmetto may affect other hormones in the body, such as testosterone or estrogen, it may not right for everyone. Those with hormone sensitive conditions should use caution.

Saw Palmetto Safety Profile

Those on hormone replacement therapy or taking hormonal birth control pills should seek medical advice before taking saw palmetto as it may interfere with these medications.

Those on blood thinners or who have bleeding disorders should not take saw palmetto for hair loss. There have been isolated reports of severe bleeding when taking this herb.

For that reason, its use should be avoided for a period of two weeks before any surgery. Users should wait at least two weeks after surgery before resuming use to prevent problems in healing.

More studies are needed to determine how the herb affects certain individuals. Women who are pregnant or nursing children, or those with liver or kidney diseases should not use saw palmetto as its safety has not been established.

There is no established dosage for using saw palmetto for hair loss. Factors such as body size may require a larger dose. Users should consult a physician experienced in the use of herbs or a natural health practitioner to determine proper dosing.

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