Saw Palmetto and Pumpkin Seed Extract for Men: A Guide to Hair Support

As men get older, feeling good in their own skin matters right down to the hair on their head. For many in the UK, that means looking after hair density, strength, and confidence. We believe in transparency. In this guide, we explore what the science says about saw palmetto and pumpkin seed extract for male pattern hair thinning and how to choose well.

What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) comes from the deep purple berries of a fan palm native to the southeastern United States. Traditionally used for wellness for over a century, modern interest centres on its fatty acids and plant sterols, its “liposterolic” content.

How Does It Support Hair?

A leading theory behind male pattern hair thinning (androgenetic alopecia) involves dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can miniaturise hair follicles over time. Saw palmetto’s fatty acids appear to inhibit 5‑alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, helping support a healthier environment for hair on the scalp.

What the Research Suggests

• In clinical studies and reviews, saw palmetto has shown visible improvements for many users.
• Selected findings reported across small trials and reviews include:
  • Up to a 27% increase in total hair count in some groups.
  • 83% of users reported increased hair density in certain cohorts.
  • Stabilisation (slowing or stopping of shedding) in roughly half of users.

Results vary, but the overall trend in the literature is encouraging, particularly for those seeking gentler, well-tolerated options.

Pumpkin Seed Extract: The Rising Star

Pumpkin seed extract is earning its place in the hair-support toolkit and for good reason.

How It Works

Like saw palmetto, pumpkin seed extract contains bioactives that can inhibit 5‑alpha reductase activity. It also delivers linoleic and oleic acids, tocopherols (vitamin E family), and trace minerals naturally present in pumpkin seeds—all of which can support scalp comfort and hair fibre quality. Tocopherols help counter everyday oxidative stress on the scalp.

Why Combine Them?

Saw palmetto and pumpkin seed extract work through complementary pathways that converge on DHT. Many men choose to use them together, either as a combined supplement or as separate products, alongside a consistent hair care routine. While large head-to-head studies are limited, the mechanistic overlap and early clinical signals make the pairing a pragmatic, gentle starting point. Woods Health has formulated its product Saw Palmetto to include both in one capsule.

Key Hair Benefits for Men

• Encourages hair density and thickness: By moderating DHT signalling at the follicle.
• Supports healthy hair growth cycles: Early evidence suggests improved hair counts and visible fullness in a subset of users over 3–6 months.
• Works with your routine: Often used alongside topical options and scalp-friendly practices for a multi-pronged approach.

Simple Lifestyle Tips for Hair Health

• Feed your follicles: Prioritise protein, iron, zinc, omega‑3s, and vitamin D through diet or as advised by your GP.
• Be kind to your scalp: Gentle cleansing, minimal heat styling, and avoiding tight styles can help reduce breakage.
• Manage stress and sleep: Chronic stress and poor sleep can trigger more hair to enter shedding phases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do these supplements take to work?

• Consistency is key. Studies have shown that it takes a few months of consistent intake to support the body’s processes before noticeable results are seen.

Can I use pumpkin seed extract and saw palmetto together?

• Yes, many men combine them because they address similar pathways. As always, speak with your GP if you take prescription medicines or have medical conditions before starting a new supplement.

• They’re best viewed as complementary, gentler options. Many men use them alongside other therapies.

References & Further Reading

1. Raynaud J.P. (2002). Inhibition of type 1 and type 2 5α‑reductase activity by free fatty acids, active ingredients of Permixon. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 82:233–239.
2. Ustuner E.T. (2013). Cause of Androgenic Alopecia: Crux of the Matter. PRS Global Open, 1(7).
3. Ufomado,P. (2023)  Complementary and alternative supplements: a review of dermatologic effectiveness for androgenetic alopecia. Baylor University Medical University Proceedings, 1,111-117
4. Cho, Y, H. (2014). Effect of Pumpkin Seed Oil on Hair Growth in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia: A Randomized, Double‑Blind, Placebo‑Controlled Trial. Evidence‑Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014.
5. Prager N., et al (2002). A randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of botanically derived 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitors against androgenetic alopecia. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 8:143–152.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Always consult your GP before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre‑existing health conditions or take prescription medication.