Saw Palmetto Hair Loss

Saw palmetto hair loss

The saw palmetto is a type of palm tree that grows in the United States. Among people of the Seminole Native American tribe, extracts from the tree have long been used as natural remedies for many conditions, including hair loss and baldness. Some scientists believe that saw palmetto affects levels of male hormones and could potentially be beneficial for men who have the most common type of hair loss, androgenic alopecia, which affects millions of Americans. More research is needed to establish any benefits of using saw palmetto for hair loss. The herb is more widely used to address symptoms of prostate enlargement and to promote prostate health. However, the benefits of the herb are still being studied.

Choosing Your Hair Loss Treatment

Before using saw palmetto to promote hair growth, it is important that you visit your doctor for a diagnosis as to the cause of your problem. Hair loss can be linked to many different causes beyond androgenic alopecia, and you may have a serious illness that needs addressing. Only your doctor can determine what is causing your hair loss and whether saw palmetto could be beneficial and safe for you to use to address your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend other treatments. If you do opt to take a saw palmetto supplement, you should be aware of the possible side effects of using the herb. The herb can cause stomach upset, dizziness, headaches and difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. Serious problems of the pancreas and liver are possible with saw palmetto but are not common. If you are pregnant or nursing, do not take saw palmetto. When used to address hair loss or any other condition, saw palmetto can make the blood thinner in texture. This puts a person more at risk for bleeding. As a result, you should not take saw palmetto within 14 days of having surgery or with any medication or herb that causes thinning of the blood. Do not take saw palmetto with any drug that affects estrogen levels in the body, such as birth control pills or estrogen supplements.

This summary is intended for general informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of purity, strength, or safety of the products. As a result, effects may vary. You should read product labels. In addition, if you are taking medications, herbs, or other supplements you should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking a supplement as supplements may interact with other medications, herbs, and nutritional products. If you have a medical condition, including if you are pregnant or nursing, you should speak to your physician before taking a supplement. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience side effects.