Can Natural Extracts Help Reduce Hair Loss by Blocking DHT?

Hair loss is a common concern, especially for those experiencing androgenetic alopecia, a condition primarily caused by the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone, a potent derivative of testosterone, plays a key role in male sexual development but can also contribute to hair follicle miniaturization in genetically predisposed individuals. Over time, this leads to thinning hair and eventual hair loss. F inasteride is one of the most well-known treatments for reducing DHT levels, but is it the only effective solution? Some people seek natural alternatives, either due to concerns about side effects or a preference for holistic approaches. But how effective are these natural compounds in comparison? And who can benefit from them? In this article, we explore natural extracts that may help reduce DHT and support hair health.

Does DHT Only Affect Men?

Not all ingredients dedicated to hair loss can be used in the same way on men or women. The reason is hormonal: Women with hormonal imbalances, such as those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may experience hair thinning due to elevated DHT levels. However, because women have lower testosterone levels than men, the impact is often less severe. While DHT is most commonly associated with male-pattern baldness, it can also contribute to hair loss in women.

Female androgenic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in women and can occur at any age after puberty, increasing in frequency with age. It is characterized by progressive hair loss and decreased hair density in the upper and frontal areas of the scalp. In young women with hyperandrogenism, the mechanism of alopecia development is very clear; however, only 20-30% of PCOS patients suffer from hair loss.

So if I am a woman can I use Finasteride?

Although its efficacy in women has been the subject of debate, several studies have evaluated its use in the treatment of female alopecia.

A randomized, double-blind, multicenter study conducted by Vera Price and collaborators in 2000 included 137 normoandrogenic postmenopausal women, randomly assigned to receive finasteride 1 mg/day or placebo for 12 months. The results showed that there were no significant differences between the finasteride-treated group and the placebo group in terms of treatment efficacy. However, subsequent research has suggested that higher doses of finasteride may be more effective in women. For example, a 2018 study administered finasteride 2.5 mg/day to 37 normoandrogenic premenopausal women for 12 months, observing improvements in 23 of them (12 with mild improvement, 8 with moderate improvement, and 3 with great improvement). It is important to note that finasteride is not approved by the FDA for use in women due to potential risks to the male fetus in the event of pregnancy. Therefore, its use in women of childbearing age should be carefully evaluated and accompanied by effective contraceptive measures.

Why Consider Natural Alternatives to Finasteride?

Finasteride has been clinically proven to lower DHT levels and slow hair loss, but it is not without drawbacks. Some users report side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or mood changes. For those who want a different approach, certain natural compounds may offer a milder, alternative way to manage hair loss without these potential risks. These natural extracts not only target DHT levels but also bring indirect benefits, such as nourishment for the scalp and hair follicles, promoting overall hair health. While clinical studies continue to show the effectiveness of minoxidil and finasteride as the primary treatments, natural alternatives could serve as valuable complements, adding nutritional support and reducing the need for more aggressive pharmaceuticals.

While the natural alternatives mentioned have shown promising potential in some studies, it is important to note that they are not a substitute for medically proven treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. These natural options should be considered as complementary to, rather than a replacement for, established treatments.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for stress reduction and hormonal balance. Some research suggests that ashwagandha may help regulate androgen levels, including testosterone and DHT, by lowering cortisol levels—an important factor since chronic stress can contribute to hair loss.

How does ashwagandha work?

• It may reduce the conversion of testosterone to DHT, though more research is needed.
• t helps manage stress, which is linked to hair thinning.

A study on ashwagandha root extract investigated its effectiveness on hair health. The results showed that topical application of ashwagandha significantly reduced hair loss in healthy adults with moderate hair loss. After 75 days of treatment, an improvement was observed in parameters related to hair loss and the participants’ quality of life.

However, one criticism could be that although the results are promising, they are based on a relatively small sample and a limited time period (75 days). This may not be sufficient to assess the long-term effects of ashwagandha on hair health. Furthermore, the study focuses on topical use of the extract, so it has not been established whether the effects would be similar with other forms of administration.

Are there studies of this with finasteride?

Currently, there are no studies that have jointly evaluated the efficacy of ashwagandha and finasteride in the treatment of alopecia. Most research focuses on the individual effects of each substance. For example, a study published in 2022 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology evaluated the efficacy and safety of a nutraceutical supplement that includes ashwagandha, among other ingredients, in patients with androgenetic alopecia. The results indicated that the supplement showed a significant improvement in hair density and reduced hair loss compared to placebo. But it is not possible to determine what role and effectiveness it had in empowering.

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)

Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant with potential hair benefits. Some studies suggest that EGCG can inhibit 5α-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT.

Can drinking green tea improve hair growth?

This is relative. When taken orally, what is produced in relation to hair loss is an indirect, long-term and uncontrolled action. There are no studies that determine the oral quantity that can benefit conditions such as hair loss. What we can notice is that this is an ingredient that, together with others, tends to be more effective.

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)

Saw palmetto is often touted as 'nature's finasteride', although it has a lower response and regrowth rate compared to the latter, according to studies. One clinical study directly compared saw palmetto to finasteride, randomizing 100 men with androgenic alopecia into two groups. One group was given 320 mg of saw palmetto and the other group 1 mg of finasteride, every day for two years. Researchers observed that in the group taking saw palmetto, the magnitude of growth was significantly less than in the group taking finasteride. After 24 months, 68% of finasteride users experienced hair growth, while only 38% of men taking saw palmetto saw their hair grow back. It was concluded that saw palmetto is about half as effective as finasteride because it does not reduce DHT as much.

Unlike finasteride, saw palmetto is not standardized, which is a disadvantage. Variation in growing conditions, extraction methods, and manufacturing practices for Serenoa repens can affect the composition and absorption of each saw palmetto supplement. Despite these varied outcomes, saw palmetto continues to be popular as a natural alternative for hair loss treatment.

The active components of Dwarf palm berries are thought to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, it may help mitigate hair follicle miniaturization and prolong the hair growth phase. Saw palmetto can be administered both orally in capsule form and topically as an extract applied directly to the scalp.

Community experiences

Experiences with green tea for hair loss are varied. Some users have reported positive results, such as reduced hair loss and increased hair density, particularly when combining green tea with other treatments like castor oil and Nizoral shampoo. Others, however, have questioned the efficacy of green tea, unfavorably comparing it to established hair loss treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. Concerns have also arisen about the potential negative impact of green tea on DHT levels, with some users worried it might interfere with their progress with medications like finasteride. Overall, while there is interest and anecdotal evidence supporting the use of green tea, opinions on its efficacy remain divided.

In another hand, Some users taking Ashwagandha for stress management while on Finasteride and Minoxidil find that it helps with overall well-being and complements their treatment. However, there are discussions around Ashwagandha's impact on testosterone and DHT levels; some users express concern that it might inadvertently increase androgen levels, which could theoretically affect hair negatively. Others have integrated Ashwagandha into broader hair health routines, including stacks with copper peptides, ketoconazole, and other supplements, often mentioning enhanced scalp health or slight improvements in hair thickness.

And for last, Some users report positive experiences, citing noticeable improvements in hair density and growth after incorporating saw palmetto into their hair care regimen. Others, however, express skepticism, mentioning little to no change in their hair condition despite prolonged use. A frequent sentiment is that while saw palmetto may offer mild benefits, it is often not as potent as conventional treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. Community discussions also highlight the importance of combining it with other treatments for better results.

So, are Natural DHT Blockers Enough?

For those wondering whether natural alternatives can fully replace finasteride, the answer depends on individual factors. While these natural extracts show promise, their effects are generally weaker compared to pharmaceutical options. However, they may still be beneficial for those who prefer a gentler approach or wish to complement existing treatments.

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