The Berry Extract That Prevents Baldness

For over 200 years, saw pal­metto has been used to prevent and improve the symptoms connected with benign prostatic hyper­trophy in men. Developing evidence indicates that supplementing with saw palmetto may also positively regulate the complex system of hormone metabolism in men and women alike. Saw palmetto’s effects on hormone metabolism may have important implications forhormone restoration programs as well as for supporting healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss.
Biochemically, one contributive factor to this disorder is the con­version of testosterone to DHT. Consequently, agents that block the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme are attracting attention as treatments for androgenic alopecia. Finasteride, marketed under the brand names Propecia® and Proscar®, is an FDA-approved treat­ment for men with androgenic alo­pecia. Clinical studies in balding men have demonstrated that finas­teride reduces scalp DHT levels and improves hair growth, confirming DHT’s role. Studies have shown that both finasteride and saw palmetto are effective inhibitors of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. However, researchers have also discovered that finaste­ride is associated with a greater risk of erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders, and diminished libido. Thus, many men are seeking effec­tive solutions for hair loss that are free of these side effects.

One study sought to examine saw palmetto’s effects in treating androgenic alopecia. The study followed 19 healthy men, aged 23-64, with mild-to-moderate androgenic alopecia. The men were given either 200 mg of saw palmetto and 50 mg of beta-sitosterol twice a day or a matching placebo for an average of 6 months. Overall hair assess­ment was determined using a stan­dardized scale. The patients were asked to evaluate any changes with reference to their current satisfaction with their hair. Assessments were performed at baseline and at the study’s completion. Sixty percent of the study subjects were rated as improved at the final visit. Larger, gender-specific clinical test are needed to further clarify these promising initial findings.

Saw palmetto has no known drug interactions, and reported side effects are minor and rare. However, some health care practi­tioners have mentioned that high doses of saw palmetto may lead to a loss of libido in both men and women. Doses of 160 mg of saw palmetto for women and 160-320 mg for men are the suggested amounts by many authorities.