Saw Palmetto for Female Pattern Hair Loss
BBased on 3 studies (2 RCTs) with 120 total participants. 3/3 studies show positive effects.
The Bottom Line
Early clinical trial evidence suggests that saw palmetto may help promote hair growth in women with pattern hair loss, but the research is still limited to a small number of studies.
- All 3 studies show positive effects, including 2 RCTs
- Improvements seen at both 90 and 180 days of use
- Only 120 total participants — small evidence base
- More research with different formulations is needed to confirm broad applicability
Key Study Findings
Key Statistics
3
Studies
120
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 320 mg/day
- hairloss:
- 320 mg/day standardized extract
Upper limit: Not established
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| proprietary saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) bioactive fatty acid extract (SEREVELLE) daily; dose not s | 26 weeks | Positive | 60 |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| Proprietary saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) bioactive fatty acids extract, 1 oral dose daily for 90 da | 12.9 weeks | Positive | 60 |
Best taken: With meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea)
- ⚠ Headache
- ⚠ Dizziness
- ⚠ Rare: decreased libido
Known Interactions
- ● Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs (may increase bleeding risk)
- ● Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (anti-androgenic effects)
- ● Finasteride and dutasteride (additive 5-alpha-reductase inhibition)
Tolerable upper intake: Not established
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Saw Palmetto help with Female Pattern Hair Loss?
How much Saw Palmetto should I take for Female Pattern Hair Loss?
Are there side effects of Saw Palmetto?
How strong is the evidence for Saw Palmetto and Female Pattern Hair Loss?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Female Pattern Hair Loss
Saw Palmetto for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.