Saw palmetto is one of the most popular natural hair loss treatments around, mainly because it acts similar to finasteride (Propecia), one of the two Food and Drug Administration hair loss treatments, as it relates to prostate health. There have been no major clinical studies that show the relationship between saw palmetto and hair loss, although small-scale studies give evidence that it may help with male pattern baldness.
How it Works
The leading cause of male pattern baldness is the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is often called DHT. The DHT will attach itself to the hair follicles, causing the follicles to shrink to the point that they are unable to produce new hair. Saw palmetto has the ability to decrease DHT levels, as well as block receptors which allow DHT to be absorbed into cells.
Types
There are essentially two types of saw palmetto tablets available for sale, saw palmetto extract and saw palmetto berries. For prostate enlargement issues the extract is preferred, and a daily dosage of 320 milligrams is typically recommended. Those taking the berry capsules will need to take roughly 1,500 milligrams to have the same effect. Capsules may be taken all at one time or twice a day.
Saw palmetto is a popular ingredient in many over-the-counter hair growth tablets, such as Procerin, Provillus and Advecia.
Topical Applications
Although very little is known about the effects of saw palmetto when applied topically, that hasn't stopped companies from including saw palmetto in hair growth products. Nioxin includes saw palmetto in its Follicle Booster, while shampoos that promote hair loss reduction, such as Nutrifolica and Revivogen, also contain saw palmetto.
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