It has been accepted that the main cause in 95% of hair loss cases is due to DHT. DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), a byproduct of Testosterone that attacks hair follicles and prevents growth of hair. The attacks made by DHT are mainly on the follicles that are located at the crown and temples. Once DHT forms and bonds to hair follicles, it becomes more difficult for the follicles to continue their normal growth cycle. Because our bodies need Testosterone to stay fit and healthy, one way to fight hair loss is by blocking the enzyme that transforms testosterone into DHT. After DHT has been eliminated from the scalp, hair follicles will then begin to grow naturally again.
Both women and men have DHT hormones and can suffer from hair loss. Because men have higher levels of testosterone in their body, hair loss is more common in them than in women. There are many products available on the market today to assist in blocking DHT. Natural DHT blockers are made up of natural ingredients that have been researched for their hair loss halting properties. These ingredients stop the enzyme that converts testosterone in DHT which then leads to lower levels found in the body. Natural DHT blockers are not only effective but are also safe alternatives to drug treatments.
Natural Supplements
Natural DHT blockers
Zinc: Zinc is considered to be the best natural mineral DHT blocker and is available in nature. There are many natural foods that are rich in zinc that can help to block DHT naturally. Oysters, shellfish and wheat germ are just some of those foods and provide a great source of zinc. Many nutritional supplements and vitamins contain zinc.
Saw Palmetto: This extract is very effective and acts in lowering the body's DHT by blocking the 5 alpha-reductase and receptor sites found on cell membranes. Saw palmetto berries and saw palmetto extract have shown promise for a variety of male health issues, and have little or no side effects for most men.
Pygeum: Pygeum extract helps to reduces levels of DHT and the number of androgen binding sites that DHT can attach to on the hair follicle. This natural plant product extracted from a tree bark is well tolerated by most people.
Nettles: Stinging Nettle root blocks the 5-Alpha-Reductase enzyme that causes testosterone to convert to DHT.
Pumpkin seed oil Inhibits the chemical reaction of testosterone that produces DHT.
Green tea: This type of tea is a powerful anti-oxidant that reduces DHT. Drinking this tea may stop hair loss and encourage re-growth. Substances in green tea called catechins are believed to be largely responsible for its myriad health benefits besides its effect on hair.
All of these natural herbs and minerals have been studied for their effects on DHT. They are largely free of side effects, and represent a good alternative to prescription medications, particularly for men in the earlier stages of hair loss.