Functional Medicine Data
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
Summary (Saw Palmetto): Saw palmetto is a palm berry extract often touted as a “natural Propecia.” It may support hair growth by blocking DHT – the hormone linked to pattern baldness – and reducing scalp inflammation. Clinical studies report modest improvements in hair count and density with saw palmetto supplements, although results are less pronounced than with standard medications.
Mechanism: Saw palmetto has anti-androgenic properties. Specifically, it can inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that miniaturizes hair follicles. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
By lowering scalp DHT, saw palmetto may slow hair loss similar to finasteride (a prescription DHT blocker). Additionally, saw palmetto exhibits anti-inflammatory effects; it can reduce expression of inflammatory genes in skin cells and even stimulate angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) via β-sitosterol, potentially improving follicle nutrition. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
This multifaceted mechanism – anti-DHT and anti-inflammatory – underpins its use in androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss).
Natural Sources: Saw palmetto extract comes from the berries of the saw palmetto palm tree (native to the southeastern U.S.). The active components are fatty acids and phytosterols (like β-sitosterol). In nature, one would get saw palmetto only from these berries (not common in diet), so it’s usually taken as capsules or in hair tonic formulations (100–320 mg daily in studies). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Evidence: Several trials and reviews suggest a benefit for hair growth, though generally milder than standard treatments. A 2020 systematic review identified 5 randomized trials using saw palmetto (oral or topical) for hair loss. Combined results showed improvements in hair quality and count – for example, up to 27% increase in total hair count and increased hair density in 83% of patients in some studies. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Notably, an open-label trial in 100 men compared oral saw palmetto (320 mg/day) to finasteride (1 mg/day) over 2 years: 38% of the saw palmetto group had increased hair growth versus 68% of the finasteride group, indicating saw palmetto was less effective than the drug but still helped over one-third of users. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Saw palmetto did, however, stabilize hair loss progression in 52% of those men (versus none in the placebo group). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Another trial of a supplement combining saw palmetto with beta-sitosterol found 60% of users rated their hair loss as improved, compared to 11% in a placebo group. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Topical saw palmetto products have also shown results – one study reported a reduction in hair shedding and increase in anagen (growth phase) hairs after 6 months with a saw-palmetto-containing lotion. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Overall, saw palmetto appears to produce mild-to-moderate regrowth in some individuals and is very well-tolerated (no serious side effects noted). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Researchers emphasize that many saw palmetto supplements include other ingredients (making it hard to isolate its effect) and that larger high-quality trials are needed. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Usage & Natural Sourcing: People typically take saw palmetto as an oral supplement (320 mg) or use topical serums/shampoos containing it. It’s derived from natural berry extract (often via CO₂ extraction). In practice, it’s often included in multi-ingredient hair supplements rather than used alone.
Tocotrienols (Vitamin E)
Summary (Tocotrienols): Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family with strong antioxidant abilities. They’re found in palm oil and certain seeds. In one clinical trial, a tocotrienol supplement increased hair count by about 34% in people with hair thinning, likely by reducing oxidative stress in the scalp. These vitamin E compounds may help protect hair follicle cells from oxidative damage that contributes to alopecia.
Mechanism: Tocotrienols (along with tocopherols) are forms of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant. Tocotrienols have an unsaturated tail that allows deeper integration into cell membranes, making them especially effective at neutralizing lipid peroxides and free radicals. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Hair loss conditions like alopecia are often associated with elevated oxidative stress – studies have found lower antioxidant enzymes and higher lipid peroxidation in scalps of alopecia patients. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
By scavenging these damaging radicals, tocotrienols protect the cells in hair follicles. This antioxidant action can prevent or mitigate follicular damage and may prolong the hair growth (anagen) phase. In short, tocotrienols help maintain a healthier oxidative balance in the scalp, providing a more favorable environment for hair growth. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Natural Sources: Tocotrienols are naturally present in certain plant oils – notably red palm oil, rice bran oil, and annatto seed. They are less common in a typical diet compared to tocopherols (the more common vitamin E form). A nutritional way to obtain tocotrienols is by consuming unrefined palm or rice bran oil, but supplements are often used to achieve higher doses.
Evidence: A landmark randomized controlled trial (2010) tested mixed tocotrienol supplements in volunteers with hair loss. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In this 8-month trial, one group took 100 mg of tocotrienols daily (derived from palm oil) and the other took placebo. The tocotrienol group showed a significant increase in hair count: from an average ~285 hairs in a measured scalp area to ~383 hairs – a +34.5% increase. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
By contrast, the placebo group saw virtually no change (289 to 288 hairs, ~ –0.1%)
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
This difference was statistically significant, with virtually all tocotrienol-treated subjects (95%) experiencing some degree of hair regrowth. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In fact, 40% of participants had more than 50% increase in hair count, and another 45% had 10–25% increases. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Importantly, oxidative stress markers were not measured in that study, but given vitamin E’s role, authors attributed the hair gains to the antioxidant effect of tocotrienols. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
No serious side effects were noted; the supplement was well tolerated over 8 months. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Other than hair count, hair mass (20-strand weight) was slightly improved (+6% in tocotrienol group, vs –2% in placebo) but not to a significant degree. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
This suggests the primary effect was on number of hairs rather than thickness. Overall, this trial provides evidence that tocotrienol-rich vitamin E can improve hair growth in people with subclinical hair loss, likely by reducing oxidative damage in hair follicles. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Usage: In the study above, participants took 100 mg mixed tocotrienols (containing alpha, gamma, and delta tocotrienol isomers) daily. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Natural supplements are often derived from palm fruit extract. It’s worth noting that maintaining a balanced intake of antioxidants (through diet or supplements) may support overall scalp health, but mega-doses of antioxidants beyond recommended levels are not always beneficial. The dose used (100 mg) is within typical supplemental range for tocotrienols.
Pumpkin Seed Oil
Summary (Pumpkin Seed Oil): Pumpkin seed oil (PSO) is rich in phytochemicals that may benefit hair – including beta-sitosterol (a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor) and delta-7-sterols (that might block DHT binding). A clinical trial in men showed pumpkin seed oil supplements significantly increased hair growth compared to placebo. In short, PSO is thought to fight hair loss by blocking DHT and reducing scalp inflammation, offering a natural alternative for androgenetic alopecia.
Mechanism: Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols (like β-sitosterol) and other compounds that can block 5-α reductase, thereby reducing conversion of testosterone to DHT. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
This is similar to saw palmetto’s mechanism. Additionally, pumpkin seed oil has anti-androgenic effects observed in animal studies and may modulate androgen receptors. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The oil is also anti-inflammatory and a good source of essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which might improve scalp health. By lowering DHT and inflammation locally, pumpkin seed oil creates a more favorable environment for hair follicles (especially in androgenetic alopecia, where DHT-driven miniaturization is the problem).
Natural Sources: Pumpkin seed oil is obviously derived from pumpkin seeds (usually the Styrian pumpkin variety is used for oil). In diet, consuming pumpkin seeds or their cold-pressed oil provides these beneficial compounds. It’s also available in softgel supplements. Aside from direct ingestion, some hair tonics include pumpkin seed oil as an ingredient.
Evidence: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 2014 evaluated pumpkin seed oil for androgenetic alopecia. Seventy-six male patients took either 400 mg of PSO per day or placebo, for 24 weeks. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The results were promising: the pumpkin seed group saw a ~40% increase in mean hair count, compared to only 10% increase in the placebo group. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In practical terms, men taking pumpkin seed had significantly more hair after treatment than at baseline (while the placebo group’s slight increase was not significant). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The difference between groups was statistically significant (p<0.001). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Patients also rated themselves better: those on pumpkin seed reported higher self-assessed improvement and satisfaction scores than placebo (p=0.013 and p=0.003). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Importantly, no significant side effects were noted – adverse events were similar to placebo. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
These outcomes suggest PSO’s DHT-blocking effect translated into moderate hair regrowth in men. Another metric, investigator-rated global photos, also favored PSO: by 24 weeks, none of the placebo patients had substantial improvement, whereas a good portion of PSO patients were rated “slightly or moderately improved”. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
It’s worth noting the hair count improvement (+40%) with pumpkin seed was not as large as what is seen with prescription finasteride (which often yields 10–15% increases in hair count in 1 year in similar populations). But as a natural therapy, the effect was notable. Pumpkin seed oil’s efficacy is attributed to the synergy of its components – not only blocking DHT, but possibly also improving circulation and providing nutrients. Overall, for mild to moderate hair loss, pumpkin seed oil supplementation showed a clinically significant benefit in a controlled trial. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Usage: The men in the study took 100 mg pumpkin seed oil capsules, 4 times daily (total 400 mg/day). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
This dosing regimen achieved results in 6 months. People using PSO at home may take a similar total dose (e.g. two 1000 mg softgels of pumpkin seed oil per day, since many oil capsules are 1000 mg containing ~400 mg fatty acids). Topical application of pumpkin seed oil (in shampoos or serums) is also practiced, though the clinical evidence is for oral use.
Marine Collagen / Protein (Fish Extracts)
Summary (Marine Proteins): Marine-based supplements (such as shark cartilage, fish collagen peptides, and mollusk powder) have shown impressive results in women with thinning hair. They likely provide essential amino acids for keratin, as well as silica, iron, and other micronutrients. In clinical trials, women taking a marine protein supplement had increased hair count, reduced shedding, and improved hair thickness compared to placebo. These supplements leverage nutrition to bolster hair growth from within.
Mechanism: Marine protein supplements (ex: brands like Viviscal) typically contain a proprietary blend of fish collagen peptides, shark cartilage, mollusk powder, along with vitamins (biotin, vitamin C) and minerals (zinc, iron). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The high-quality proteins provide essential amino acids (like lysine and proline) for keratin synthesis, supporting the structural proteins of hair. Collagen peptides may also signal the body to produce more collagen or strengthen the dermal papilla. Additionally, these supplements often include silica (from horsetail) and vitamin C, which aid collagen formation and cross-linking, potentially strengthening hair shafts. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Some ingredients like oyster or shark powder could provide glycosaminoglycans that support skin and follicle health. In short, marine extracts help by nutritional support and possibly by stimulating anagen (as seen in some studies where they increased hair follicle counts). They are not hormone modulators, but rather work by providing building blocks and protective nutrients for hair growth.
Natural Sources: The “marine complex” comes from seafood – fish skin/scales, shark cartilage, shellfish – all rich in collagen and minerals. One could get similar nutrients by consuming collagen-rich fish broth, shellfish, and seaweed (for minerals). However, the supplements concentrate these components. For instance, Viviscal’s AminoMar© complex is derived from shark and mollusk powder, combined with horsetail (Equisetum, a plant high in silica) and acerola cherry (vitamin C), plus biotin and zinc. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
So its natural sources are marine organisms and some botanicals.
Evidence: Multiple clinical trials (primarily in women) have demonstrated efficacy. In one 6-month multicenter trial of a marine protein supplement (MPS) in 96 women with thinning hair, the treated group had significantly reduced hair shedding after 3–6 months and an increase in vellus (baby) hair diameter. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In another placebo-controlled study, 60 women with self-perceived thinning were given Viviscal Extra Strength (marine collagen supplement) or placebo for 90 days. The MPS group had a greater number of terminal hairs and less hair loss on pull tests than placebo. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In fact, a pilot within that study showed hair counts roughly doubled (from 271 to 609 hairs in a fixed area at 180 days) with the supplement, versus essentially no change in the placebo group. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Subjective assessments also improved – women noticed thicker, fuller hair. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
A follow-up study over 6 months found continued increases in hair count and volume with the supplement. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Table 1 below highlights some key results. Across studies, marine supplements have consistently led to increased hair density and diameter in women, with no serious adverse effects. Dermatologists have noted these products appear to prolong the anagen phase and decrease telogen (resting) hairs, possibly by providing nutritional support to follicles. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
It’s important to note that these trials were often funded by the supplement manufacturers; however, results have been published in peer-reviewed journals and align with the idea that improved nutrition can reverse suboptimal hair growth. For individuals with diffuse thinning (often related to stress, diet, or post-pregnancy), the improvements in hair count (e.g. +~ 80 hairs) and hair shedding are quite meaningful. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Usage: Typically, marine supplements are taken orally, 1–2 times per day. For example, Viviscal is dosed as one tablet twice daily (~450 mg marine complex per tablet). Results usually become noticeable after 3–6 months of continuous use. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
These supplements are widely available over the counter. Natural dietary alternatives could include a protein-rich diet with plenty of collagen (bone broth, fish) and vitamins, though the concentrated formula of supplements is designed to target hair specifically.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Summary (Biotin): Biotin is a B-vitamin often marketed for hair and nail health. While biotin deficiency can cause hair loss (and supplementing reverses it), in otherwise healthy individuals extra biotin has no proven benefit for hair growth. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
That said, biotin is essential for keratin production, and many hair formulas include it as a supportive nutrient. Natural sources like eggs, nuts, and whole grains provide ample biotin for most people.
Mechanism: Biotin (vitamin B7) serves as a coenzyme in carboxylation reactions, which are crucial for synthesizing fatty acids and amino acids. In the context of hair, biotin is needed for keratin structure – it helps form the infrastructure of keratin proteins that make up hair strands. In biotin deficiency, the body cannot properly build keratin, leading to brittle hair or hair loss. Thus, biotin is often labeled a “hair vitamin.” It’s true that adequate biotin supports healthy hair growth because it ensures proper cell metabolism in hair roots. However, any excess beyond nutritional needs is simply excreted; biotin is water-soluble and the follicles will not use super-physiological amounts. So, biotin’s mechanism is really about preventing a loss of hair quality due to deficiency, rather than actively stimulating new growth in a non-deficient person.
Natural Sources: Biotin is found in a variety of foods. Egg yolks, organ meats (liver), nuts (almonds, walnuts), seeds, and whole grains are rich sources. Legumes and some vegetables (like sweet potatoes) also provide biotin. Additionally, our gut bacteria synthesize some biotin internally. The recommended daily intake is small (30 µg for adults), and a balanced diet easily meets this. Notably, raw egg whites contain avidin, a protein that binds biotin and can induce deficiency if one consumes huge amounts of uncooked egg white over time – otherwise deficiency is quite rare.
Evidence: Despite biotin’s popularity in hair supplements, clinical trials do not show benefit in those without deficiency. A 2024 review found only three studies met criteria for examining biotin’s effect on hair, and the best study (a double-blind placebo-controlled trial) found no difference in hair growth between biotin and placebo. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The other two studies were in special cases (patients on isotretinoin and post-gastric-bypass patients), with no striking positive results. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The conclusion was that there is a “large discrepancy” between public perception and scientific evidence for biotin. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In simpler terms: unless someone has a biotin deficiency (which can happen in cases like long-term antibiotic use, anti-seizure meds, or genetic issues), extra biotin is unlikely to boost hair growth. However, when a true deficiency exists, biotin supplementation dramatically improves hair. For instance, infants with inherited biotinidase deficiency have sparse hair that regrows once treated with biotin. And some case reports of women with unexplained hair loss found they had low biotin levels and improved after supplementation. These scenarios are relatively uncommon. Still, because biotin deficiency can cause hair thinning, many dermatologists include checking biotin (and other nutrients) in patients with diffuse hair loss. In practice, biotin supplements (typically 2,500–10,000 µg daily) are so widely used for hair loss that one survey found 38% of women with hair loss were taking biotin – mostly without lab-confirmed need. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
In summary, biotin helps if you are deficient, but otherwise excess biotin doesn’t supercharge hair growth. It is generally safe (though very high doses can interfere with lab test results). Thus, it’s included in many hair formulas as an “insurance policy” for optimal keratin production.
Usage: If a person has hair loss due to confirmed low biotin, doctors may prescribe 5,000–10,000 µg/day for a few months. For general support, a multivitamin or diet providing 30 µg/day is sufficient. Common supplement doses (e.g. 5,000 µg) far exceed what the body needs; fortunately biotin toxicity isn’t a concern, but such high doses are usually unnecessary. Always inform your physician of high-dose biotin because it can skew blood tests (like thyroid or cardiac troponin tests).
Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids (with Antioxidants)
Summary (Essential Fatty Acids): Omega fatty acids (like those from fish oil and evening primrose oil) are believed to nourish hair follicles and reduce inflammation. A notable study in women showed that a supplement combining omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids plus antioxidants significantly improved hair density and reduced hair loss after 6 months. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
These healthy fats may combat scalp inflammation and provide structural oils for hair. Natural sources include oily fish, flaxseed (omega-3) and plant oils like borage or primrose (omega-6 GLA).
Mechanism: Essential fatty acids are critical components of cell membranes in the skin and hair follicles. Omega-3 (e.g. EPA and DHA from fish oil) and Omega-6 (e.g. gamma-linolenic acid from primrose) can influence hair growth in several ways. First, they modulate inflammation: omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and can lower production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the scalp, potentially mitigating follicle miniaturization linked to inflammation. They also improve blood flow by promoting vasodilation and inhibiting platelet aggregation, which could enhance nutrient delivery to hair roots. naturalmedicinejournal.com
Additionally, certain omega-6 like arachidonic acid are precursors to prostaglandins that actually promote hair growth (for instance, prostaglandin E2 analogs have been shown to spur hair in research). The combination of omega-3 & 6 along with antioxidants (like vitamin E, lycopene, etc.) addresses oxidative stress and inflammatory damage in hair follicles. By correcting any deficiency of essential fats, hair shaft quality may improve (less brittle, better moisture retention). Overall, these fatty acids help maintain a healthy lipid barrier in the scalp and an anti-inflammatory milieu conducive to hair growth.
Natural Sources: Omega-3: oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts (contain ALA which partially converts to EPA/DHA). Omega-6: plant oils (evening primrose, borage, sunflower, safflower) – though typical diets have plenty of omega-6, the GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) in primrose or borage is the beneficial kind for reducing inflammation. Many foods provide antioxidants – fruits, vegetables, nuts – but specific antioxidants used in hair trials include vitamin E (nuts, seeds), vitamin C (citrus, berries), and lycopene (tomatoes).
Evidence: A 6-month randomized trial in 120 healthy women with female pattern hair loss tested a supplement with omega-3 & 6 plus antioxidants vs. placebo. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The treated group showed significant improvement in hair: photographic analysis confirmed increased hair density, and trichogram results showed a drop in telogen hair percentage (fewer hairs in the shedding phase) in the supplement group. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Specifically, the percentage of hairs in telogen (resting) phase decreased, and the proportion of thick, anagen hairs increased compared to controls. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Additionally, 87% of the women taking the supplement reported a reduction in hair loss, and ~86% noticed improved hair diameter and density. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
These self-reports aligned with measured data (the placebo group actually had slight worsening on some measures). The study concluded that omega-3/6 with antioxidants “acts efficiently against hair loss” by improving hair density and reducing miniaturized hairs. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Another benefit of such supplementation is overall scalp condition; essential fats can relieve dry, flaky scalp which can indirectly benefit hair. It’s worth noting that diets deficient in essential fatty acids can cause hair depigmentation and loss – so ensuring adequate intake is important. Outside of this study, there’s ancillary evidence: for instance, men and women with telogen effluvium have been anecdotally treated with flaxseed or fish oil with some success (mostly improving hair texture and reducing shedding). The key controlled trial described above provides solid evidence that adding omega-3 and omega-6 (with antioxidants) for 6 months can significantly improve hair growth outcomes in women. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Usage: In the study, the supplement contained a specific blend (borage oil for omega-6 GLA, fish oil for omega-3, plus vitamins C and E and lycopene). For practical use, one could take fish oil (~1 g EPA/DHA) and evening primrose oil (~500 mg GLA) daily along with a multivitamin or antioxidant-rich diet. It often takes at least 3–6 months to see results in hair. It’s also wise to take these with food (to aid absorption) and consult a doctor if you have any bleeding disorders (as fish oil can have mild blood-thinning effects at high doses).
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Table 1: Selected Clinical Outcomes for Natural Hair Growth Therapies. Several peer-reviewed studies have evaluated natural supplements in individuals with hair loss. This table highlights key results from some of these trials, comparing treatment to control. Overall, supplements like saw palmetto, tocotrienol (vitamin E), pumpkin seed oil, marine collagen, etc., have shown significant improvements in hair growth metrics versus placebo in various populations. Topical treatments (rosemary oil, onion juice) have likewise demonstrated efficacy comparable to conventional therapy in certain studies. The data emphasize that while effects vary, many natural interventions do yield measurable hair benefits in a controlled setting. (Abbreviations: AGA = androgenetic alopecia, AA = alopecia areata, n = number of subjects, vs = versus, inc = increase, ↓ = decrease).
|
Therapy (Type) |
Study Population & Duration |
Outcome vs. Control |
|
Saw Palmetto (oral) |
100 men with AGA, 24 mo (SP 320 mg vs finasteride 1 mg) |
Hair density improved in 38% of SP users vs 68% on finasteride (SP group had stabilized hair loss in 52% of cases) . |
|
Tocotrienol Vit E (oral) |
38 men/women with hair loss, 8 mo (100 mg/day) |
+34.5% hair count increase from baseline (284→383 hairs) vs ~0% change for placebo (289→289 hairs) . Significant regrowth in tocotrienol group only. |
|
Pumpkin Seed Oil (oral) |
76 men with AGA, 24 wk (PSO 400 mg/day vs placebo) |
+40% mean hair count increase vs +10% in placebo (p<0.001) . Self-rated improvement higher with PSO (p=0.013) . |
|
Marine Protein (oral) |
60 women with thinning, 90 d (marine collagen supplement vs placebo) |
Increased terminal hair count and ↓ shedding in supplement group (hair count ↑ from 271 to 571 at 3 mo in pilot subset vs no change on placebo) . Improved hair volume/quality reported . |
|
Omega-3/6 + antioxidants (oral) |
120 women with FPHL, 6 mo (fish oil + primrose oil + vitamins vs control) |
Improved hair density on photos (p<0.001) ; telogen hairs ↓ significantly vs control . 89% reported less hair loss and 87% thicker hair on omegas . |
(Sources: See cited lines for each outcome. SP = saw palmetto; PSO = pumpkin seed oil; FPHL = female pattern hair loss; AA = alopecia areata.)