This $14 Supplement Can Help Reverse Hair Loss, Soothe Inflammation, and Ward Off Chronic Illnesses

Your husband might have it on his side of the medicine cabinet, but did you know saw palmetto is great for women, too? Although more commonly advertised as a way to ease prostate issues for fellas, it’s also been shown to help us ladies with things like hair growth, soothing inflammation, and warding off chronic illnesses.

Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss

Researchers have found a lot of potential for both men and women hoping to reverse hair loss from androgenetic alopecia (also known as male and female pattern baldness). It’s believed the plant contains enzymes which block testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), two hormones commonly associated with thinning strands when their levels get high.

In one study, participants who took it as a supplement had a “highly positive response” with 60 percent reporting improved hair growth. Another study that looked at topical application of saw palmetto extract found a 35 percent increase in their participants’ number of strands, plus a 67 percent reduction in sebum on the scalp (which can clog pores and call hair fall). It’s important to note that in both cases, the study sizes were on the smaller side. That said, their results are still super promising! 

Negative side effects seem to be uncommon, mostly just mild stomach discomfort. Researchers recommend taking the supplement after eating something to avoid that issue. They also warn that women who are on birth control or other hormone treatments should consult their doctors before trying saw palmetto as it might mess with their balance. People on blood thinners need to be careful before adding this to their daily routine, too, or any other underlying conditions that might raise red flags. 

But if you get your doctor’s OK, there are several budget-friendly options for both supplements and topical products. The Hair Thickness Maximizer Saw Palmetto + Biotin supplement (Buy on Amazon, $16.95) or their Organic Saw Palmetto Oil Serum (Buy on Amazon, $13.95) both come highly rated with reviewers claiming to see new growth and stronger strands after only about a month of using them.

Other Saw Palmetto Benefits

Along with the hair-boosting perks, saw palmetto is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. Animal studies claim those found in the supplement were shown to help significantly decrease signs of chronic inflammation while warding off free radicals that cause chronic illnesses like cancer.

Again, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking saw palmetto either as supplement or topically. But here’s hoping they give you the green light to help your locks grow, ease inflammation, and fight off chronic disease!

This article originally appeared on our sister site, Woman’s World.