Saw Palmetto Hair Loss Treatment

The two main causes of hair loss are androgenic alopecia and cicatricial alopecia. The first is caused by the growth time of hair being shortened, thus more hair is falling out than the rate of hair re-growth. The second is caused by scalp inflammation that scars hair follicles, which prevent new hair from forming. Saw palmetto has been used to treat hair loss in both men and women for its properties that promote healthy hair follicles by reducing the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which blocks hair follicles from growing.

Saw Palmetto Pills

Saw palmetto is created from the berries of the saw palmetto fan palm plant. The properties that are found within saw palmetto fight against the formation of DHT, which is the chemical that attaches to hair follicles and constricts hair growth. For androgenic alopecia, saw palmetto is an effective treatment.

Saw palmetto treats hair loss in the same manner as the popular prescription medication, Propecia. Not only does it lower the amount of DHT in the system it also contains properties that prohibit cell membranes to absorb DHT. Research for saw palmetto and hair loss is limited; however, saw palmetto has been widely researched for its use to reduce the size of an enlarged prostate, which is also caused by DHT.

An effective saw palmetto treatment requires at least 200 milligrams to be ingested every day. Positive results are not immediate; however, after several weeks of continued use, the positive effects of saw palmetto will begin to show. Consume this herb every morning, or night, for six weeks before hair re-growth becomes apparent. While side effects are limited, some may experience nausea or headaches when first taking saw palmetto.

Saw Palmetto Oil

To effectively treat hair loss, topical application of saw palmetto oil directly on the scalp has shown positive effects on balding or thinning hair. Due to the lipophilic properties of saw palmetto, the active ingredients are able to be easily absorbed into the skin. Saw palmetto oil is available in its raw form or in an ointment formant. Both are equally as effective for scalp treatments.

Every night pour two tablespoons of saw palmetto oil directly onto the scalp. Massage for fifteen minutes, ensuring to focus on areas that hair loss is evident. Allow the oil to soak into the scalp for at least an hour, however, best results are experienced when the oils can rest on the scalp overnight. Place a towel on the pillow to prevent unwanted stains or soil marks from the oil. Wash clean in the morning with standard shampoo and conditioner.

Tags: hair loss, hair follicles, properties that, androgenic alopecia, hair re-growth