Saw Palmetto for Hair Growth: A Promising Study on Androgenetic Alopecia
Dr. Kumar’s Take:
The study suggests that oral and topical saw palmetto oil may help reduce hair loss and improve hair density in individuals with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The oral formulation significantly lowered systemic dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, while the topical version did not.
Brief Summary:
A 16-week randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effects of a commercially available standardized saw palmetto oil, on hair loss. The study included 80 male participants with mild-to-moderate hair loss. Results showed a significant reduction in hair shedding, increased hair density, and a decrease in serum DHT levels with oral supplementation. The topical formulation also improved hair density but had no impact on systemic DHT levels. No serious side effects were reported.