Stansfield: Saw Palmetto and Hair Loss- Answers To Frequently Asked Questions

There is an interesting connection between the herbal extract from saw palmetto and hair loss. While government agencies point out there is not enough scientific evidence to prove that saw palmetto decisively curbs certain medical conditions, several studies indicate it may be effective in treating some symptoms.

What is saw palmetto?

Saw palmetto is a fan palm also commonly known as cabbage palm and dwarf palm. It grows in coastal areas, especially in the southeastern part of the USA including Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina and even as far north as Arkansas.

What is saw palmetto used for?

Original inhabitants of the Americas used it for treating various urinary problems.

In modern times too, saw palmetto has been widely used as a natural medicine in the treatment of urinary problems, especially an enlarged prostate gland (also known as BPH which stands for benign prostatic hyperplasia). Many studies indicate it improves problems associated with nighttime urination and urinary flow.

What's the connection between saw palmetto and hair loss?

As testosterone is one of the culprits involved with male pattern baldness, blocking testosterone can reduce the onset of hair loss. Some studies suggest that saw palmetto can have an effect on hair loss by blocking some of the effects of testosterone which produces dihydrotestoseteron (DHT).

Are there any side effects with using saw palmetto?

It appears there are few serious side effects if any. Some men report stomach pains, nausea and vomiting, but these effects can be minimized by taking the extract with food. As saw palmetto can effect the sex hormone testosterone, changes in sexual desire and erection difficulties may also result.

It is always wise to check with your medical practitioner before using any medicine or herbal extract as there may be interactions with other drugs or supplements.

As the amount of saw palmetto in hair loss treatments is small, it is unlikely many users will feel any side effects.

When using saw palmetto oil extract by itself according to the recommended dosage of up to 1 teaspoon a day, be aware of the potential side effects mentioned above, even if the risk is small.

So is saw palmetto an effective cure for hair loss?

There is no conclusive evidence to suggest saw palmetto has a major impact on hair loss control. However, a variety of small studies suggest it is effective in helping to combat hair loss in some individuals.

So when examining the options for natural hair loss treatments, if you see saw palmetto in the list of ingredients don't be surprised. It is just one of a number of natural herbs that probably have a positive effect on minimizing and controlling hair loss.

Mike Jones is a writer and webmaster with over 10 years experience. His recommendation:

The NewHair Biofactors system stops hair loss within 1 week guaranteed and promotes new hair growth (the Stimulating Growth Extract contains saw palmetto) - Click here:

http://www.1bodycare.com/newhair.htm

Get answers at these free research libraries here:

Hair Loss:

http://www.4-hair-loss-solutions.com/Hair-Loss-Library

Hair Transplants:

http://www.4-hair-loss-solutions.com/Hair-Transplant-Library