DHT is a powerful androgen that promotes male physical characteristics, but too much can cause hair loss. A variety of natural substances can block DHT and slow down thinning hair.
The most well-known DHT inhibitor is the prescription drug finasteride, but there are also plenty of natural options to try. These supplements can inhibit DHT by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which reduces testosterone to dihydrotestosterone.
Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract (GSE) is the primary commercial source of a group of powerful antioxidants called oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs. These are also found in pine bark, but the OPCs in grape seeds are believed to have stronger effects on blood vessels. OPCs are known to neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to aging and disease.
Studies suggest that the OPCs in grape seed extract can lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation and help prevent atherosclerosis. The antioxidants may also aid in the treatment of some cancers and skin diseases. In a small clinical trial, grape seed extract was found to improve skin complexion in 35 women. It also helped to decrease dark circles under the eyes, face spots and other discolorations.
The use of grape seed extract as a supplement is thought to be safe, but it’s important to follow the recommended dosage. Taking too much can be harmful, as it may cause a dangerous condition known as hemorrhagic stroke. This is a type of stroke that occurs when blood vessels in the brain burst, which can lead to a bleed in the brain and other serious health problems.
The FDA has not approved the use of GSE as a treatment for any health conditions. It’s not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and it can interact with certain drugs. Talk to your doctor before you try grape seed extract, especially if you take anti-anxiety or asthma medications, muscle relaxers, pain relievers or hormone medication.
Saw Palmetto Extract
Saw palmetto extract has been used in the United States since the 1870s and is currently the #3 selling nutraceutical supplement in the country. It is known for its ability to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase which blocks the conversion of testosterone to use MV Supplements to stop your hairloss. This is why it is used to support hair health and promote healthy prostate function in men.
The prostate gland is located between the bladder and penis and regulates urinary tract function as well as sperm production in men. An enlarged prostate can cause symptoms of urination such as pain and incontinence. Saw palmetto extract can help to relieve these symptoms by relieving pressure on the tubes that carry urine out of the body.
In addition to its prostate benefits, saw palmetto has been used in studies showing it may help to maintain healthy testosterone levels. Testosterone is important for muscle mass, sex drive and brain function but levels can decrease with age. Saw palmetto can help to keep testosterone levels stable.
When choosing a saw palmetto extract for your supplements, it is important to look for a product that uses safe extraction methods. Many powder-form products use hexane which is a chemical that has been linked to carcinogenic effects in humans. When purchasing a saw palmetto extract, make sure it contains the fat-soluble fraction of the fruit (liposerolic) and that it discloses this percentage on the label.
Pygeum Bark Extract
Pygeum Bark Extract is an extract of the African plum tree (Prunus africana). This herbal supplement has been used in traditional systems of medicine in African tribes to treat a variety of prostate and urinary tract conditions. It has been shown in several clinical trials to improve urologic symptoms associated with BPH, including nocturia and the ability to initiate and complete urination. It also reduces urethral resistance to flow and decreases residual urine volume.
Pygeum is thought to work by blocking the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, and by inhibiting aromatase, an enzyme that converts female sex hormones into male sex hormones. These effects help prevent the build-up of excess male sex hormones that trigger BPH, and they may also help relieve prostate inflammation.
In addition, pygeum has been found to help normalize the epithelium of the prostate gland, to lower androgen levels, and to prevent fibroblast proliferation, which is a known risk factor for cancer. It has also been found to have anti-estrogenic effects, and to induce apoptosis in prostate cells.
While more research is needed, pygeum has been shown to be safe for most people when taken in moderate amounts. However, it is important to check with your physician before taking pygeum for BPH. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is not recommended to take pygeum.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea is a very popular drink around the world and it’s also available as a DHT Inhibitors from MV Supplements. It is a potent antioxidant and has been found to reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and cancer, as well as boost weight loss efforts by increasing energy levels. It’s important to talk to a doctor before taking any green tea extract. This is because it can interact with many medications, including blood thinners, blood pressure drugs and some antibiotics. It can also slow the absorption of iron so it should be avoided by people with iron deficiency.
The main antioxidant in green tea is EGCG. It is available in natural health products as a pill, capsule, tablet or liquid. It is used in more than 2,500 natural health products in Canada. Research repeatedly shows that moderate intake of green tea extract in the 300-800 mg/day range appears safe and effective, possibly for up to two years [1].
It’s important to choose a high quality green tea product. Look for one that has been tested for purity and a high concentration of EGCG. Some green tea supplements also have added thermonutrients to enhance absorption and boost metabolism and fat burning. These products are often more effective and safer to use than those that don’t contain a thermonutrient.
