There are several reasons as to why you should consider using saw palmetto for hair loss. The main reason is that it is a natural herbal remedy with no documented side effects. In an era when drugs are routinely being recalled for causing horrific side effects, herbs can offer a safe and economical alternative.

History

Native Americans used this treatment. It was traditionally used as a topical treatment for conditions involving the hair, scalp and skin. It's use for hair loss has the backing of hundreds of years of use by the indigenous peoples of the Americas.

How Saw Palmetto Works Externally

When using saw palmetto, one option is using it as an external treatment by massaging it into the scalp and hair. You can purchase it as an oil extract or as an ointment. One of the reasons it has been so successful in the treatment of this condition, particularly when used externally, is that its components are lipophilic in nature. This means they are well extracted into the oil base typically used, and are easily absorbed by the skin, therefore providing a more productive treatment.

The typical recommended external treatment is to massage the oil extract or ointment into the hair and scalp and let it sit there for at least one half hour, although the best results are obtained when it is left on the hair and scalp overnight.

How Saw Palmetto Works Internally

The beauty of using it for hair loss treatment, is it can be used both externally and internally at the same time to promote hair regeneration, and prevent further loss. It is thought that this is achieved by restraining the effects of testosterone on the prostate. This in turn keeps the testosterone from changing into DHT, a compound that results in male balding. The dosage which is recommended is at least 160mg daily, and can be as much as 320 mg. If you are using saw palmetto oil extract the recommended dosage is ½ to 1 tsp per day.

Saw palmetto is universally one of the most easily obtained and used treatments for hair loss that exist today. It has a positive history of use by American Indians, and it can be taken both internally and externally together in order to increase the benefits. In a world where drugs are being taken off the market, using this herbal treatment gives those with hair loss problems a natural, and safe alternative.