Hair loss is one of the most common concerns worldwide — and for many, the culprit is DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone that weakens and shrinks hair follicles over time. While pharmaceutical solutions like finasteride and minoxidil have long been the go-to options, there’s growing interest in natural DHT blockers that can support hair health without the same risk of side effects.
At the top of that list is Saw Palmetto — a plant extract often referred to as “nature’s finasteride.” Backed by scientific studies, Saw Palmetto is gaining attention for its ability to block DHT, protect hair follicles, and encourage healthier regrowth. In this article, we’ll look at how it works, what the research says, and how to use it effectively as part of your hair recovery journey.
Understanding DHT and Hair Loss
At the root of most hair loss — especially in men and women with pattern baldness — is a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT is a byproduct of testosterone, created when the enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone into its more potent form.
While DHT plays a normal role in the body, it can also have a negative effect on hair follicles. Over time, high levels of DHT bind to receptors in the scalp and:
- Shrink the hair follicles (a process called miniaturization)
- Shorten the hair growth cycle (less time in the anagen, or growth phase)
- Weaken the strand until it becomes thinner, shorter, and eventually stops growing
This is why DHT is often called the “enemy of follicles” when it comes to androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss).
Who is Affected?
- Men: Often see a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
- Women: More likely to notice diffuse thinning along the part line or overall hair density reduction.
Why Blocking DHT Matters
If left unchecked, DHT continues to miniaturize follicles, making hair loss progressive. By targeting DHT — either through medications like finasteride or natural blockers like Saw Palmetto — it’s possible to slow, stop, or even reverse the cycle of follicle weakening.
Saw Palmetto: Nature’s Finasteride
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a small palm native to North America, and its berries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Today, it’s best known for its role as a natural DHT blocker, often nicknamed “nature’s finasteride.”
How It Works
- Blocks 5-alpha reductase: This is the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT. By inhibiting it, Saw Palmetto helps reduce the amount of DHT binding to hair follicles.
- Protects follicles from miniaturization: Less DHT means follicles can maintain their size and keep producing thicker, healthier strands.
- Balances scalp environment: Saw Palmetto is rich in fatty acids and phytosterols, which may help calm inflammation and improve scalp health.
Why “Nature’s Finasteride”?
Finasteride, a prescription drug, works by blocking the same enzyme (5-alpha reductase). The difference is that Saw Palmetto achieves a similar effect through plant-based bioactives, offering a gentler, natural alternative without the same risk of hormonal side effects.
While finasteride remains the pharmaceutical “gold standard,” Saw Palmetto is gaining popularity as a safer, herbal option for those looking to manage hair loss naturally.
Scientific Studies on Saw Palmetto
While herbal remedies are often dismissed as “folk medicine,” Saw Palmetto has been the subject of growing scientific interest. Several studies suggest it may indeed help reduce hair loss by targeting DHT activity.
Key Research Findings
- Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2002): A study found that 60% of men with androgenic alopecia showed improvement in hair growth after taking Saw Palmetto supplements.
- International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology (2012): Topical Saw Palmetto extract was shown to increase hair density and reduce shedding in patients with mild-to-moderate hair loss.
- Randomized controlled trial (2014): Compared Saw Palmetto with finasteride. While finasteride produced stronger results, Saw Palmetto still showed a notable reduction in hair loss progression with fewer reported side effects.
Limitations
- Study sizes have been relatively small compared to pharmaceutical trials.
- More large-scale, standardized research is needed to confirm optimal dosage and delivery methods.
Takeaway: The science on Saw Palmetto is promising — while not a miracle cure, it offers a clinically supported, natural option for those looking to reduce hair loss with fewer risks.
How to Use Saw Palmetto Effectively
Saw Palmetto can be taken in different forms, but how you use it determines how well it works. Consistency and proper dosage are key.
Oral Supplements
- Capsules / Softgels: The most common form, usually standardized to contain 85–95% fatty acids and sterols.
- Recommended dosage: Most studies use 160–320 mg per day, often split into two doses.
- Best for: Systemic support, blocking DHT from within.
A good example is the MD Plus Bio Hair Multivitamin Tablet, which combines Saw Palmetto with Biotin, Keratin, Zinc, and Ginseng. This multi-nutrient approach strengthens hair from the inside while supporting hormonal balance naturally.
Topical Formulations
- Serums, Shampoos, and Lotions: Applied directly to the scalp, often combined with other actives like caffeine, biotin, or Capixyl.
- Benefit: Delivers Saw Palmetto directly to the follicles while supporting scalp health.
- Best for: Localized thinning or as part of a post-transplant care routine.
The MD Plus Bio Repair Serum is a great example of this, blending Saw Palmetto with Capixyl, Procapil, and Plant Stem Cells. This synergy not only blocks DHT but also helps anchor grafts post-transplant and boosts follicle activity for long-term density.
Safety and Best Practices
- Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects.
- Rare cases: mild stomach upset when taken orally.
- Avoid combining with prescription finasteride without consulting a doctor.
- Choose clinical-grade products with standardized extracts for reliable results.
Pro tip: Combining oral supplements with a topical formula may provide dual-action support — systemic + local — for a stronger effect.
Combining with Other Natural Ingredients
While Saw Palmetto is powerful on its own, research and clinical practice suggest it may work even better when paired with other natural hair-supporting ingredients. These combinations can address multiple causes of hair thinning at once.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
- Strengthens hair strands from the inside out
- Helps reduce breakage and supports keratin production
- Often paired with Saw Palmetto in multivitamins and serums
For example, the MD Plus Bio Food Supplement combines Biotin with Saw Palmetto, Zinc, and Iron — providing a complete nutritional base for stronger, healthier growth.
Pumpkin Seed Oil
- Another natural 5-alpha reductase inhibitor
- Rich in fatty acids that nourish the scalp
- May improve hair thickness and density when combined with Saw Palmetto
Caffeine
- Stimulates blood circulation in the scalp
- Helps counteract DHT’s effects on follicles
- Commonly included in shampoos with Saw Palmetto
Capixyl
- A biomimetic peptide complex that protects and strengthens follicles
- Works synergistically with Saw Palmetto for both DHT-blocking and follicle anchoring
- Found in advanced clinical serums like the MD Plus Bio Repair Serum
Why Combinations Work
Hair loss is rarely caused by one factor alone. By combining Saw Palmetto with ingredients that target nutrition, circulation, and follicle strength, you create a multi-layered defense system that supports hair health from every angle.
Pro tip: Look for formulas that blend these actives together rather than trying to combine them randomly — MD Plus Bio products are designed with clinical balance, ensuring every ingredient works in synergy.
For Best Results: Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement or topical treatment. Individual results may vary depending on your health condition and the stage of hair loss.
Expected Results and Timeline
Like most natural treatments, Saw Palmetto takes time. Results won’t appear overnight, but with consistent use, many users report visible improvements in hair quality and density.
Timeline of Results
Timeframe | What to Expect | Notes |
1–2 months | Scalp feels healthier, possible reduction in oiliness or irritation | Too early for visible regrowth — this is the “foundation phase” |
3–6 months | Reduction in daily shedding, hair looks fuller at the roots | Consistency with supplements or topicals is key |
6–12 months | Noticeable improvements in thickness and density | Works best in early-to-moderate hair loss |
12+ months | Results stabilize, hair remains stronger with continued use | Safe for long-term integration into routine |
Managing Expectations
- Saw Palmetto isn’t a quick fix. It works gradually, and results vary from person to person.
- Best results occur with consistent daily use — skipping breaks the progress.
- Works best for early-stage thinning or as a complement to other treatments.
- Patience pays: most users see meaningful benefits only after 6–12 months.
Pro tip: Think of Saw Palmetto as an investment in your hair’s long-term health, not a short-term miracle cure.