The oil extract
Liposterolic (fat-soluble) berry extract
The oily berry extract used in most studies.
Good for: Everyday use
What variations of saw palmetto exist?
A palm berry that may lower the effect of androgens (male-type hormones). In women, it is sometimes used for androgen-related hair thinning or PCOS, but evidence is limited. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The oil extract
Liposterolic (fat-soluble) berry extract
The oily berry extract used in most studies.
Good for: Everyday use
The scalp one
Topical hair products
Used on the scalp. Evidence is early.
Usually skip
- The weak powder (Ground whole berry powder)Less concentrated and less studied.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Liposterolic berry extract' on the label (the oil extract)
Watch out for
- No fatty acid or sterol amount (the active parts) listed
- Hair blends that don't say how much is inside
Check with your provider first if…
- You're pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding. It blocks male-type hormones, which could affect a developing baby.
- You take hormonal birth control or hormone therapy
- You take blood thinners or are planning surgery
- Your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or new. Get it checked first, since thyroid, iron, and autoimmune causes are common.
In Dr. Lesher's store
2 products in Dr. Lesher's dispensary have saw palmetto. Here's which form, where the label says.
Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.
Vitanica
OvaBlend (PCOS Blend)
66.5 mg per serving
Restorative Formulations
PCO Px
150 mg per serving
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.