Protocol · Hormonal Health
Hirsutism Management Support Protocol
Spearmint Tea and Inositol (Myo-inositol) are the core of this stack, with 6 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Hirsutism Management Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
8 supplements · 1 graded · 1 confirmed study
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Spearmint Tea | Amount listed: 2 cups spearmint tea daily (1 cup twice daily) | Has anti-androgen effects; reduces free testosterone levels in studies | Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Spearmint Tea (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Inositol (Myo-inositol) | Amount listed: 2–4 g myo-inositol daily | Improves insulin sensitivity; may reduce androgen levels in PCOS-related hirsutism
| Grade C for Blood glucose2 studies · 46 people | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Saw Palmetto | Amount listed: 320 mg standardized extract daily | 5-alpha reductase inhibitor; may reduce conversion of testosterone to DHT | Not graded yet | ||
| DIM (Diindolylmethane) | Amount listed: 100–200 mg daily | Supports healthy estrogen metabolism; may help balance hormones | Not graded yet | ||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 25–30 mg daily | May help regulate androgen levels; important for hormonal balance | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily | Deficiency common in PCOS; may improve insulin sensitivity and androgen levels | Not graded yet | ||
| Berberine | Amount listed: 500 mg two to three times daily | Improves insulin sensitivity; may reduce androgens in PCOS | Not graded yet | ||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2 g EPA+DHA daily | May improve insulin sensitivity; anti-inflammatory effects | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade C
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Hirsutism is excessive hair growth in women in areas where hair typically grows in men (face, chest, back, abdomen). It affects about 5-10% of women and is usually caused by excess androgens (male hormones) or increased sensitivity to normal androgen levels.
COMMON CAUSES:
- PCOS (most common cause, ~70-80%)
- Idiopathic hirsutism (no identifiable cause)
- Adrenal disorders (CAH, tumors)
- Medications (anabolic steroids, some others)
- Rarely: androgen-secreting tumors
EVALUATION IS IMPORTANT:
Hirsutism may be a sign of underlying conditions that need treatment. See a healthcare provider for proper evaluation, especially if:
- Rapid onset
- Signs of virilization (voice deepening, clitoral enlargement, male-pattern balding)
- Irregular periods
- Acne or oily skin
CONVENTIONAL TREATMENTS:
- Oral contraceptives (reduce androgens)
- Anti-androgens (spironolactone, finasteride)
- Topical eflornithine (slows hair growth)
- Hair removal methods (laser, electrolysis, waxing)
- Treat underlying cause (PCOS, insulin resistance)
LIFESTYLE FACTORS:
- Weight loss (if overweight) - significantly reduces androgens
- Low glycemic diet
- Exercise
Spearmint tea* has demonstrated anti-androgen effects in studies.
Inositol* helps with insulin sensitivity in PCOS-related hirsutism.
Saw palmetto* may inhibit conversion of testosterone to its more potent form (DHT).
Expected timeline: Supplements may take 2-3 months to show effects on hair growth. Hair already present needs removal; supplements help reduce new growth.