Hair loss treatment: Saw palmetto shown to treat alopecia without side effects

Hair loss is usually the result of a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. One of the main driving forces behind androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is a male hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT. Interrupting natural forces may seem futile but evidence suggests it can be done.

Sixty percent improvement in overall hair quality, 27 percent improvement in total hair count, increased hair density in 83.3 percent of patients, and stabilised disease progression among 52 percent were noted with the use of various topical and oral saw palmetto-containing supplements.

The researchers also found saw palmetto was well tolerated and not associated with serious adverse events in alopecia patients.

“Although robust high-quality data are lacking, supplements containing saw palmetto may be a treatment option for patients with androgenetic alopecia,” the researchers concluded.

Conventional treatments for male pattern baldness

Finasteride and minoxidil are the main treatments for male pattern baldness.

Additional support

Losing hair can be upsetting – for many people, hair is an important part of who they are.

“If your hair loss is causing you distress, your GP may be able to help you get some counselling,” says the NHS.

You may also benefit from joining a support group, or speaking to other people in the same situation on online forums.

Try these online support groups:

• Alopecia UK
• Alopecia Awareness.