Saw Palmetto and its connection with Blocking DHT Saw palmetto is a plant with small berries that has been used by Native Americans as medicine and food for hundreds of years. There is evidence that this herbal remedy may treat an enlarged prostate. It also has been used to treat hair loss, bladder infections, prostate cancer, and decreased sexual drive. Research on the effectiveness of saw palmetto in treating hair loss is promising. An extract of saw palmetto berries may block 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. DHT is the molecule responsible for hair loss, and also is involved in the enlargement of the prostate. The components of saw palmetto that block the enzyme work in a similar way as the synthetic ingredients in prescription medication for hair loss. A study was taken for men with moderate cases of male pattern baldness where they were given a saw palmetto oral supplement to take twice daily for a few months. When asked to rate their ...