Beta Sitosterol for Hairloss

There are rumors that a "new" herbal treatment for hairloss may do a better job of reducing hairloss than any other natural herbal treatment available today. Generally, Saw Palmetto is the most commonly used herb for hair loss, but it isn't as effective as prescription medications such as propecia, or even over the counter treatments like Rogain.

Beta Sitosterol is a plant compound similar to cholesterol, however it works within the digestive system to reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed into the blood stream...therefore reducing the risk of heart disease.

It also has demonstrated an ability to inhibit the enzyme 5 alpha reductace. This is the enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT. It's the DHT molecule that is the primary contributor to male pattern baldness. But...does that mean Beta Sitosterol can actually reduce the symptoms of male pattern baldness?

According to a study published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine" in the April 2002 issue, it just may be able to help some men in treating their baldness.

26 men ranging in age from 23 to 65 who were experiencing mild to moderate male pattern baldness took 50mg of Beta Sitosterol every day for 4 months. The results are as follows:

"On the basis of the investigative staff assessment of change in the patient’s scalp hair growth from baseline, treatment with the active study formula demonstrated 60% of the subjects rated as “improved” at the final visit as compared to baseline. In contrast, only 11% in the placebo group were rated as improved. Further, the Subject Assessment analysis of the appearance of the bald spot at the final visit compared to baseline showed that in the treatment group, no subjects deteriorated. In contrast however, the placebo group reported three subjects as deteriorated."

Beta Sitosterol Exposed:

Ok, it would be great if other, more substantial studies were conducted that demonstrated similar results. 23 people just isn't enough to justify trumpting beta sitosterol as the best herbal remedy for hairloss, however, it is promising, and since the cardio benefits of beta sitosterol are better documented, it probably can't hurt to see if it can reduce hairloss. Please consult a doctor before trying any herbal treatment.