Herbal Remedies for PCOS Hair Growth

Managing PCOS-related hair growth naturally is possible with herbal remedies that target hormonal imbalances. If you're dealing with excessive hair growth (hirsutism) or hair loss caused by PCOS, herbs like spearmint, saw palmetto, and green tea may help lower androgen levels and support hair health. While these remedies take time to show results, they are often safer and more affordable than prescription treatments.

Key Takeaways:

Spearmint Tea: Reduces testosterone levels and may lower hirsutism by 25–50%.
Saw Palmetto: Blocks DHT production, aiding in hair regrowth and reduced hair loss.
Other Herbs: Green tea, licorice, and fennel may complement treatment by targeting androgen activity.
Safety: Herbal remedies generally have mild side effects but should be used under guidance, especially if combined with other treatments.

For quicker results, prescription options like spironolactone or topical treatments can be combined with herbal approaches. Always consult a healthcare provider to create a balanced plan tailored to your needs.

8 Natural Herbs for Reducing Excess Androgen – Dr.Berg

Research on Herbal Remedies for PCOS Hair Growth

Recent studies are shedding light on the potential of herbal remedies to manage PCOS-related hair growth. These natural approaches work by targeting androgen activity, which plays a significant role in unwanted hair growth.

Spearmint for Reducing Androgens

Spearmint tea has become one of the most researched herbal solutions for managing PCOS-related hair growth. Studies suggest that spearmint has anti-androgen properties, helping to balance the hormonal disruptions that contribute to excessive hair growth.

One clinical trial revealed that spearmint tea reduced free testosterone levels by 28.9% and total testosterone levels by 23.5% in women with PCOS. In comparison, the control group experienced reductions of just 9.8% and 8.1%, respectively.

"Our research trial demonstrates that the use of spearmint herbal tea has significant measurable anti-androgen effects in patients with hirsutism due to PCOS." - Paul Grant

The effectiveness of spearmint lies in its ability to lower free testosterone levels while boosting luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. This hormonal shift has been linked to noticeable improvements, with participants reporting reduced hirsutism in clinical trials.

While these results are encouraging, researchers caution that longer-term studies are needed to fully understand spearmint's impact on hair growth patterns over time. It’s also worth noting that other herbs work through different pathways to manage androgen activity.

Saw Palmetto and Androgen Control

Unlike spearmint, saw palmetto targets the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This conversion plays a key role in androgen-driven hair growth. Saw palmetto contains liposterols - fatty acids that inhibit this enzyme, potentially reducing androgen activity.

Research has shown that saw palmetto can lower androgen uptake in tissues by 40%. It also enhances the activity of 3α-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase, an enzyme that converts DHT into a weaker metabolite called androstanediol.

A systematic review reported notable benefits of saw palmetto for hair health, including a 60% improvement in hair quality, a 27% increase in total hair count, and improved hair density in 83.3% of participants. However, much of this research focuses on male pattern baldness rather than PCOS-specific hair growth issues. Additionally, many studies report the best results when saw palmetto is used alongside other ingredients, rather than on its own.

Other Herbs with Research Support

Beyond spearmint and saw palmetto, several other herbs have shown promise for managing PCOS-related hair growth by targeting androgen activity and related enzymes.

Green tea: Contains epigallocatechin, which inhibits 5α-reductase, similar to saw palmetto. Studies show that combination therapies involving green tea can lead to a 25–50% reduction in hirsutism.
Fennel: Exhibits anti-androgenic effects by influencing estrogen production. When applied topically, fennel has been linked to an 18.3% reduction in hair thickness.
Licorice: Blocks enzymes involved in androgen production and provides estrogenic effects. Combined with laser hair removal, it has been shown to reduce terminal hair density by nearly 40%.

Other herbs like ginger, neem, curcumin, and teupolioside have also shown potential in improving hirsutism scores when used in combination therapies.

Despite these encouraging findings, many studies face limitations, such as small sample sizes and inconsistent methodologies, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. Larger, more comprehensive research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these herbal remedies in managing PCOS-related hair growth.

Herbal Remedies vs. Prescription Treatments

When it comes to managing PCOS-related hair growth, herbal remedies and prescription treatments each have their own strengths and limitations. By understanding how they differ in effectiveness, safety, and accessibility, women can make better-informed decisions about their care.

How Fast Do They Work?

Prescription treatments tend to work faster, often delivering noticeable results within six months, with effectiveness rates ranging from 19% to 41%.

Herbal remedies, on the other hand, require more time to show results but can still be effective. In one double-blind clinical trial, women with moderate to severe hirsutism caused by PCOS took a daily combination of 50 mg dried spearmint leaves and 50 mg dried green tea leaves for three months. At the end of the study, their hirsutism decreased by 25–50% compared to a placebo group. While the benefits of herbal treatments may take longer to appear, some women have reported feeling improvements as early as one month, particularly in studies involving spearmint tea.

When it comes to hair regrowth, the comparison gets even more nuanced. For example, rosemary oil has been shown to be as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair growth. This suggests that with consistent use, certain herbal options can rival the results of prescription treatments.

Of course, the speed of results is only part of the equation - safety is another critical factor.

Side Effects and Safety

Prescription treatments, including androgen suppressors and birth control pills, can come with a range of side effects. These can vary from mild issues like dry skin and headaches to more severe complications such as vascular clots or liver damage. Medications like metformin, often prescribed to lower insulin levels, may lead to allergic reactions, irregular heartbeat, breathing problems, or blood sugar fluctuations.

Herbal remedies generally have milder side effects. For instance, studies on spearmint tea reported no adverse effects among participants. Similarly, topical treatments using fennel gel (1% and 2%) and licorice gel (15%) showed no reported side effects. Minor issues, like slight skin irritation, have been noted in a small percentage of cases, but these are relatively rare. The most serious side effect documented was a single case of contact dermatitis from using saw palmetto cream, which is far less severe than some risks associated with prescription medications.

Cost and Availability

Cost and convenience play a significant role in treatment decisions. While prescription treatments often work faster, they tend to be more expensive and come with additional considerations like side effects.

Herbal remedies, such as spearmint tea or saw palmetto supplements, are widely available over-the-counter, making them a more affordable option that doesn’t require a doctor’s visit or prescription.

Prescription treatments, though costlier, have become more accessible through telehealth platforms like Oana Health. For example, spironolactone treatments start at $14 per month, while topical spironolactone is available for $43 per month, both delivered directly to patients with free shipping.

Herbal remedies also offer greater independence. They don’t require ongoing medical supervision, prescription renewals, or insurance approvals, allowing women to start treatment on their own terms. That said, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider to ensure safety.

Hair loss affects up to 30% of women with PCOS, and women with the condition are more than twice as likely to experience hair loss compared to those without it. This widespread need underscores the importance of having accessible and affordable options. Herbal remedies may take longer to work but are safer and more budget-friendly, while prescription treatments provide faster results but come with higher costs and a greater risk of side effects. The choice ultimately depends on individual priorities and circumstances.

sbb-itb-6dba428

Safety and Best Practices for Herbal Use

Herbal remedies can provide a gentler option for managing PCOS-related hair growth, but they’re not entirely risk-free. The strength and effects of these remedies can vary, and some may have side effects, making professional guidance essential. Knowing the risks, research gaps, and the role of healthcare providers can help you make smarter decisions about adding herbal treatments to your routine.

Safety and Possible Side Effects

Saw palmetto is generally safe for use over a period of up to three years. However, it can cause mild side effects like diarrhea, headache, fatigue, decreased libido, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. In rare cases, more severe issues like liver damage, pancreatitis, intracranial bleeding, or even death have been reported.

This herb is not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its hormonal effects. Women on birth control pills should consider additional contraceptive measures, such as condoms, as saw palmetto may interfere with hormonal contraceptives. If you’re planning surgery, it’s recommended to stop using saw palmetto at least two weeks before the procedure.

Spearmint tea is another popular option, generally well-tolerated by most. However, in some women, it can lead to estrogen dominance, which may cause symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, bloating, excessive discharge, breast tenderness, and cramps.

It’s also worth noting that the potency of herbal supplements can vary significantly due to limited FDA regulation, making it even more important to approach their use cautiously.

Research Gaps and Limitations

Research on herbal remedies like fennel extract and spearmint tea has been limited by small sample sizes and inconsistent study designs. Many studies lack the rigorous randomized, double-blind setups that are considered the gold standard in medical research. These limitations make it harder to draw clear conclusions about their safety and effectiveness, emphasizing the need for more thorough studies in the future.

Working with Healthcare Providers

Given the uncertainties surrounding herbal remedies, consulting a healthcare provider before starting any herbal treatment is crucial - especially for women managing conditions as complex as PCOS. A professional can assess your specific health needs and identify possible risks or interactions with other medications you may be taking. For example, saw palmetto is known to interact with birth control pills, estrogen therapies, and blood-thinning medications.

Your healthcare provider can also help you develop a balanced treatment plan. Herbal remedies should be seen as a supplement to, not a replacement for, conventional PCOS treatments. Always share details about any supplements you’re taking to ensure a safe and effective management strategy. A registered dietitian or a healthcare professional experienced in PCOS can craft a personalized plan aligned with your health goals.

Navigating the overwhelming amount of information on herbal remedies can also be challenging. Healthcare providers can guide you through the noise, offering evidence-based advice. Physicians are encouraged to create a supportive environment, listening without judgment and addressing the unique challenges faced by women with PCOS.

For additional support, telehealth platforms like Oana Health provide access to licensed professionals who can help you safely combine herbal and prescription treatments. They can advise whether herbal remedies might complement your current treatment plan or if a prescription-based approach would be a better fit for your specific needs.

How Oana Health Supports PCOS Hair Growth Management

Oana Health

Oana Health takes a comprehensive approach to managing PCOS-related hair growth challenges by combining herbal remedies with prescription-strength solutions. While natural options like spearmint tea and saw palmetto may help, many women require prescription treatments for noticeable improvements. Oana Health bridges this gap by offering science-backed prescriptions through a convenient telehealth platform. Their personalized care model ensures that every woman can explore a combination of herbal and prescription treatments under the guidance of licensed medical professionals.

Custom Treatment Plans with Licensed Doctors

Oana Health simplifies the process of getting tailored PCOS care. With just a quick 5-minute online consultation, you can share your medical history and hair growth concerns. From there, licensed doctors review your information to design a treatment plan that fits your needs, whether you’re dealing with unwanted facial hair, scalp hair loss, or both. Depending on your situation, your plan may include a mix of herbal remedies and prescription medications or focus solely on prescriptions.

"Oana's telehealth service is fantastic! It's helped manage my insulin levels and reduce excess hair growth I was experiencing due to PCOS. I'm recommending this to all my friends with PCOS." – Victoria A.

Telehealth makes expert care accessible from the comfort of your home, removing the need for in-person visits.

Prescription Solutions Delivered to Your Door

Oana Health offers targeted prescription treatments designed to address specific PCOS hair growth concerns. For facial hair, Eflornithine is a go-to option. This medication slows the growth of unwanted hair and is available through Oana Health's "Hairless Hype" program for $69/month. Clinical studies show that 81% of women see significant improvement within a year, with some noticing results as early as 8 weeks.

For scalp hair loss, Spironolactone is available in both oral ($14/month) and topical ($43/month) forms, depending on your preference. This medication works by blocking androgens, the hormones that contribute to both hair loss and excessive hair growth in PCOS. Additionally, the "Hair Plus Plus" treatment, priced at $40/month, promotes hair regrowth and combats thinning. For more advanced cases, oral Minoxidil is also an option at $25/month.

All prescriptions are shipped directly to your home at no extra cost, making it easy to stay consistent with your treatment.

Affordable Care with Free Shipping

Cost can often be a hurdle in managing PCOS, but Oana Health addresses this by keeping expenses manageable. A $20 doctor’s fee for telehealth consultations, paired with free shipping, eliminates travel costs and can reduce out-of-pocket expenses by up to 40%. The telehealth model also saves time, allowing patients to make adjustments to their care plan without taking time off work. Dr. Lisa Chang, Telehealth Coordinator at Emory Women's Health Center, highlights the benefits:

"By using telehealth, we can make weekly tweaks to a patient's diet, medication, or lifestyle without them having to leave home."

Conclusion: Combining Herbal and Prescription Solutions for PCOS Hair Growth

Managing PCOS-related hair growth involves tackling both the root hormonal imbalances and the visible symptoms. A thoughtful combination of herbal remedies and prescription treatments can create a balanced approach for long-term management.

Herbal remedies, like spearmint tea and saw palmetto, are known to help lower androgen levels, but they typically require patience due to longer treatment cycles. While these natural solutions can be beneficial, relying on them alone may not be enough for many women dealing with PCOS-related hair growth.

On the other hand, prescription treatments offer quicker, more targeted results. Medications like Spironolactone work by blocking androgen effects on hair follicles, while topical treatments such as Eflornithine can slow the growth of unwanted hair effectively.

By combining these approaches, women can benefit from a comprehensive strategy. Prescription medications focus on managing symptoms, while herbal remedies address broader issues like stress, weight management, and glucose regulation, which often contribute to PCOS progression.

Safety remains a top priority. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in monitoring treatment plans to prevent interactions and adjust therapies as needed. It's also important to acknowledge the emotional toll PCOS-related hair growth can take, as it often affects self-esteem and overall quality of life.

For those exploring an integrated approach, platforms like Oana Health offer personalized plans that blend herbal and prescription solutions with lifestyle changes. This kind of support helps ensure adherence to treatment and emphasizes the importance of consistent lifestyle adjustments, both of which are key to effective PCOS management.

Ultimately, the future of managing PCOS-related hair growth lies in personalized, multi-faceted strategies. Working closely with healthcare professionals can maximize benefits, minimize side effects, and pave the way for lasting success.

FAQs

How do herbal remedies like spearmint tea and saw palmetto help manage unwanted hair growth caused by PCOS?

Spearmint tea might help manage excessive hair growth in individuals with PCOS by reducing androgen levels, including testosterone. Elevated androgens are often linked to hirsutism (unwanted hair growth), and studies suggest that spearmint can naturally lower these hormone levels over time.

Saw palmetto, on the other hand, targets the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Since DHT is a stronger androgen that can intensify hair growth in undesired areas, saw palmetto's ability to reduce DHT levels may help lessen these effects.

While these natural options may provide some relief, their effectiveness can vary. It's always wise to consult a healthcare provider for tailored advice. For prescription treatments specifically designed to address PCOS symptoms, Oana Health offers expert telehealth services delivered directly to your home.

What are the possible side effects of herbal remedies for PCOS, and how can they be used safely?

Herbal remedies, such as spearmint and saw palmetto, may offer some relief for managing PCOS-related symptoms. However, they can sometimes lead to mild side effects like stomach discomfort, diarrhea, heartburn, or even changes in your menstrual cycle.

To ensure safe use, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the right dosage for you and keep an eye out for any potential adverse effects. This way, herbal treatments can become a helpful part of your overall approach to managing PCOS without putting your health at risk.

Herbal remedies like spearmint and saw palmetto often take between 2 to 6 months to produce noticeable effects on PCOS-related hair growth. These options are typically gentler and appeal to those looking for a more natural approach. However, their results can vary significantly from person to person.

Prescription treatments, in contrast, usually offer quicker and more predictable outcomes. For instance, minoxidil may start showing visible improvements in as little as 8 weeks, with more pronounced changes often appearing around the 4-month mark. These treatments are supported by stronger scientific research and are designed to target hormonal imbalances more directly.

If you're weighing your options, it's a good idea to consult a licensed healthcare provider. They can guide you toward the treatment plan that aligns best with your needs and goals.