9 Best Natural DHT Blockers Supplements According To Science

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amy Revene M.B.B.S.

Written by Our Editorial Team

Last updated Apr 15, 2024

Are you tired of seeing your hairline recede and your muscles waste away?

If increased DHT levels are what you're after, then you're in the right place.

We've tested countless supposed "DHT boosters" only to be disappointed time and time again.

No more! In this article, I'm going to reveal the real secret weapons that can crush your pattern baldness.

By the time you've finished reading, you'll know exactly which are the best natural DHT supplements for your hair.

What is a natural DHT blocker supplement?

A natural DHT blocker supplement aims to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) through the use of plant-based ingredients. Common DHT blockers include saw palmetto, nettle root, beta-sitosterol, and pygeum. These supplements are often taken to help manage male pattern baldness or prostate issues since DHT plays a role in these conditions.

These supplements are often preferred for their potential to lessen hair loss associated with DHT, typically with fewer side effects than synthetic alternatives.

9 best natural DHT blockers supplements

Natural DHT blockers are a sought-after solution for hair loss, and several supplements have shown potential. Here are nine notable natural DHT blocker supplements:

1. Pumpkin seed oil

Pumpkin Seed Oil is thought to block DHT due to its content of cucurbitin, a rare amino acid. A placebo-controlled study indicated that users of pumpkin seed oil had a significant increase in hair count, averaging a 40% increase compared to a 10% increase in the placebo group.

Users also reported higher satisfaction with their hair's condition. While these findings are promising, the current body of research is not extensive enough to prove its effectiveness as a DHT blocker.

2. Caffeine

Caffeine is known for promoting hair growth by extending the growth phase of hair follicles. It is a common ingredient in many hair care products.

A study published in The British Journal of Dermatology highlighted caffeine's potential in this area.

However, most studies on caffeine's effectiveness in hair loss treatment have been conducted with other substances like minoxidil, leaving its standalone efficacy somewhat unclear.

3. Rosemary oil

Rosemary oil, derived from the rosemary herb, has shown promise as a natural DHT blocker. In a 2015 study, men who applied rosemary oil to their scalps experienced an increase in hair thickness comparable to those using the FDA-approved minoxidil.

However, this study had a small sample size, requiring more extensive research to confirm these findings. Rosemary oil has also been suggested as a potential treatment for alopecia areata.

4. Green tea

Green tea contains a potent antioxidant, epigallocatechin-3 gallate (EGCG), which might inhibit the enzyme 5α-reductase that converts testosterone into DHT. Some studies have suggested this inhibitory effect, but the research is inconclusive.

Green tea and its supplements offer general health benefits, but their specific impact on hair loss requires further investigation.

6. Saw palmetto

Saw palmetto extract from a small palm tree targets the 5α-reductase enzyme like the catechin in green tea. Research on its effectiveness in promoting hair growth has shown mixed results.

One study reported increased hair growth in 48% of participants, but it made no difference for 36%. Another study found that saw palmetto was less effective than finasteride, a medication for male pattern baldness, especially in cases with more advanced baldness.

7. Pygeum

Pygeum, sourced from the African cherry tree bark, has been studied for its effects on prostate health, a condition also linked to DHT.

However, research into its effectiveness for male pattern baldness is limited, and results have been mixed.

More evidence is needed before pygeum can be recommended as a reliable treatment for hair loss.

8. Lycopene

Lycopene, which gives red color to fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and watermelons, is explored as a natural treatment for prostate cancer and is thought to possibly moderate DHT levels.

Its antioxidant properties benefit overall health, including potentially reducing hair loss caused by free radicals. However, studies explicitly addressing its impact on male pattern baldness are lacking.

9. Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle is traditionally considered an effective DHT blocker when applied topically to the scalp. Studies in rats and humans have shown that nettle root extract can reduce symptoms of prostate hyperplasia.

However, studies comparing it to other herbal DHT blockers or finasteride have yet to consistently replicate these results. Therefore, the effectiveness of stinging nettle as a DHT blocker remains questionable.

Each of these natural supplements offers a unique approach to combating hair loss, though their effectiveness can vary, and more research is often needed to fully establish their impact.

Conclusion

Natural DHT blocker supplements like pumpkin seed oil, caffeine, rosemary oil, green tea, saw palmetto, pygeum, lycopene, biotin, and stinging nettle offer a variety of approaches to combat hair loss associated with DHT. Each has unique properties and varying degrees of scientific support.

In addition, products like the Bio-Pilixin® Activation Serum from Scandinavian Biolabs, with its clinically tested formula, provide a safe, drug-free option for helping reduce hair thinning and increase hair density, showing significant results within 45 to 150 days of regular use.

References:

Read more:

Dr Amy Revene M.B.B.S. graduated from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. She is currently working as a General Physician at New Hope Medical Center. Amy has a passion for research and offers her expertise and opinions to help people in their quest to lead healthy, happy lives.