Hair Loss and the Thyroid Gland
Saw Palmetto & Hair Loss by Raj Pandey
What is it?
Saw Palmetto is an herbal oil extract from the berries of the
plant called a Saw Palm. Researchers are still working to fully
understand the beneficial effects of this herbal extract. What
is known is that the fatty acids are purported to be responsible
for testosterone-inhibiting effects within the prostate.
What does it do?
Put simply Saw Palmetto opposes the actions of testosterone.
This is significant since testosterone levels have been directly
linked to several health conditions including hair loss. Proponents of Saw
Palmetto claim that it balances hormonal activity restoring
whatever damage may have been caused by an imbalance.
Is it effective?
It depends on who you talk too. The Naturopathic Community is
very confident and report definite results although they admit
that they do vary based on the quality of the herb and the
person taking it. Consensus in the medical community is positive
but reserved. They want to see more comprehensive clinical
trials done but also admit that with a Doctors guidance for most
people it will not harm people to try it. For many decades in
Europe and Asia it is considered the herb of choice for treating
BPH Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or enlarged prostate in men.
Many report very positive results.
Will it help my hair loss?
Since we also know that hair loss is closely related to
testosterone activity, it is very often recommended that any
Hair Loss Treatment Plan include a DHT blocker and Saw Palmetto
as an herbal supplement. Today it is the active ingredient found
in the majority of all natural hair loss treatments.
A word of caution:
Doctor Supervision - as with any treatment plan, consult with
your Doctor Quality Concerns - There are currently no
regulations or standards so when purchasing this buy from a well
known brand name. Try different brands as pay attention the
labels regarding content per dosage. PSA False Positives -
Because it can alter the results of the PSA test for prostate
cancer make sure to advise your Doctor if you require testing
that you are taking it Pregnancy - Do not take Saw Palmetto if
pregnant or breast feeding
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