Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) has garnered interest as a natural remedy for hair regrowth, particularly in individuals suffering from androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and other hair loss conditions. This blog explores the role of saw palmetto in hair regrowth, highlights various studies supporting its efficacy, provides guidance on how to incorporate it into your hair care regimen, discusses potential side effects, and recommends reputable brands.

The Role of Saw Palmetto in Hair Regrowth

Saw palmetto is believed to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). High levels of DHT are linked to hair loss, as they can shorten the hair growth cycle and shrink hair follicles. Research indicates that saw palmetto may help reduce DHT levels, leading to improved hair density and regrowth.

Supporting Studies

1. Systematic Review: A systematic review analyzed five randomized clinical trials and two prospective cohort studies. It found that oral and topical supplements containing saw palmetto (100-320 mg) resulted in a 60% improvement in overall hair quality, a 27% increase in total hair count, and increased hair density in 83.3% of patients with AGA and telogen effluvium. The review concluded that saw palmetto is well tolerated and may be a viable treatment option for hair loss, although more high-quality studies are needed to confirm its efficacy .
2. Randomized Controlled Study: A 16-week randomized, placebo-controlled study demonstrated that both oral and topical administration of a standardized saw palmetto oil significantly reduced hair fall and improved hair growth. Participants in the oral group experienced a 5.17% increase in hair density, while those using the topical treatment saw a 7.61% increase .
3. Comparative Study: Another study compared the effectiveness of oral saw palmetto (320 mg) to finasteride (1 mg) in treating male pattern hair loss. While finasteride led to hair regrowth in 68% of participants, saw palmetto showed a 38% improvement. The authors suggested that saw palmetto could serve as an alternative for patients who are intolerant to finasteride .
4. Mechanistic Insights: Research has also indicated that saw palmetto promotes hair regeneration by activating transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and mitochondrial signalling pathways, which are crucial for hair follicle health and function.

Can females take Saw Palmetto?

While there might be some role of Saw Palmetto in treating female pattern hair loss, a study points out that Saw Palmetto may pose risks to a male fetus. Therefore, the use of Saw Palmetto is not advisable for women of childbearing age.

How to Include Saw Palmetto in Your Hair Regrowth Regimen

Incorporating saw palmetto into your hair care routine can be achieved through various forms:

Oral Supplements:

• Dosage: Most studies suggest a daily intake of 320 mg to 960 mg of saw palmetto extract.
• Forms: Available in capsules, softgels, or liquid extracts.

Topical Applications:

Shampoos and Conditioners: Look for products that list saw palmetto extract as an ingredient.

DIY Hair Oils:

Mix saw palmetto oil with carrier oils (like coconut or jojoba oil) and apply it to your scalp.

Dietary Inclusion:

While not as concentrated, incorporating saw palmetto berries into your diet can provide some benefits, although supplements are generally more effective.

Potential Side Effects

Saw palmetto is generally considered safe for most individuals, but some may experience mild side effects, including:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement is advisable, especially for those with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

Recommended Brands

While there are many forms of Saw Palmetto available, this study found that variants containing extracts have the highest concentration of active ingredients compared to powder or dried berries. Here are a few brands that contain Saw Palmetto extracts:

1. GNC Herbal Plus Saw Palmetto Extract has 160 mg extarcts rich in fatty acids availaible in US and India
2. Now Food has Saw palmetto extracts along with pumkin seed oil and Zinc is availaible in India and Globally.
3. NutriJa Saw Palmetto Extract 800MG is USDA Non-GMO organic option available in India and Globally.

Conclusion

Saw palmetto presents a promising option for those looking to enhance hair regrowth naturally. With several studies supporting its efficacy, it may be particularly beneficial for individuals with AGA and telogen effluvium. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, and consider reputable brands to ensure quality and effectiveness in your hair regrowth journey.

References

1. Evron, E., Juhasz, M., Babadjouni, A., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2020). Natural Hair Supplement: Friend or Foe? Saw Palmetto, a Systematic Review in Alopecia. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 19(2), 123-130. Link
2. Farris, P. K., et al. (2023). Oral and Topical Administration of a Standardized Saw Palmetto Oil Reduces Hair Fall and Improves the Hair Growth in Androgenetic Alopecia Subjects – A 16-Week Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 16, 3251-3266. Link
3. Zhu, H. L., et al. (2018). Serenoa repens extracts promote hair regeneration and repair of hair loss mouse models by activating TGF-β and mitochondrial signaling pathway. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 22(12), 4000-4008.
4. Healthline. (2023). Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss: Myth or Miracle? Link