Saw Palmetto

In clinical trials, saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) 160-200 mg 2-3 times daily or
320 mg/day have been used to treat androgenetic and telogen effluvium types of hair loss. In traditional Native American medicine, 1-2 grams of whole berries is used. ^{50, 96}

Physiological Effects and Benefits of Saw Palmetto

• Results from clinical trials suggest that saw palmetto can successfully treat male androgenetic balding. At least one of these studies was both placebo-controlled and double-blinded, further validating the results. ^{50, 96} Containing the natural phytoestrogen beta-sitosterol and the antioxidant beta carotene, saw palmetto may also be useful for other types of hair loss. ³⁷
• The natural 5α-reductase inhibitors in saw palmetto berries prevent conversion of testosterone to the more potent androgen DHT, which is known to be a cause of hair loss when it attaches to sensitive hair follicles on the scalp. ^{50, 96}
• Lab studies suggest that saw palmetto inhibits both types of the 5α-reductase enzyme, suggesting it may actually work better than finasteride. ⁹⁶


• Some experts warn against using saw palmetto if you already take the 5α-reductase inhibitor Propecia®, blood thinners, or are a pregnant or nursing woman. ²