femail.co.uk - 24th October 2002
The Problem
"Dear Dr Briffa, are there any alternative treatments for hirsutism in a woman? I feel really self-conscious and will try anything if it will help. Thank you for your suggestions."
John says...
Hirsutism (excess hair) can sometimes be related to genetic factors and tends to be more common in individuals from, say, Mediterranean or Middle Eastern decent. However, in a proportion of women hirsutism is the result of hormonal imbalance - generally an excess of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is the principle hormone involved with male sexual development, and also gives rise to body and facial hair growth, muscle development, and a deepening of the voice. Women manufacture testosterone in their ovaries, but usually in very small amounts compared to men. Some women, however, produce larger than normal amounts, and this may lead to an increase in hair growth on the body and face (hirsutism). High levels of testosterone in women are often associated with a condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). As its name suggests, PCOS is associated with multiple cysts in one or both ovaries. Other common symptoms of this condition include acne, breast pain, weight gain and mood disturbance. Precisely what causes PCOS is not known for sure, but there is emerging evidence that the higher than normal levels of testosterone often found in sufferers is worsened by increased levels of another hormone - insulin. Insulin is released in response to carbohydrate foods (sugars and starches), and it makes sense to limit those foodstuffs which give rise to the highest insulin levels. Foods to limit in this respect include sweet foods and sugary foods, white bread, pasta, white rice and potato. Foods that give more controlled insulin secretion include 100 p.c. wholemeal bread, brown rice, beans, pulses, nuts, seeds, green vegetables and fruits other than grapes and bananas. Looking more directly at the testosterone level itself, then you may be helped by taking a supplement of the herb Saw palmetto. This herb slows down the conversion of testosterone into an even more active form of the hormone known as dihydrotestosterone. In this way, saw palmetto may reduce the impact of testosterone on your body, and help to reduce excess hair growth on your face and elsewhere. You will find Saw palmetto in your local health food store. Take 250 - 350 mg per day. More information about PCOS can be obtained from the self-help organisation Verity at 52-54 Featherstone Street, London EC1Y 8RT.
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What alternative remedies can help excess body hair? 
