Pumpkin seed oil has been linked to positive effects on hair growth, especially in men. One scientific theory for how pumpkin seed works for hair loss is that the oils phytosterols promote hair growth. Phytosterols are sterols found in many plants, and they could block enzymes and hormones in your scalp that cause hair loss. This would mean phytosterol-rich pumpkin seed oil might help. However, so far, none of these theories have been solidly proven in studies.
A significant study about pumpkin seed oil and hair loss was published in 2014. In the study, men with pattern baldness took either pumpkin seed supplements or a placebo. The results showed that those who took supplements experienced 30 percent more hair growth than those who received the placebo. However, there were a few missing links and misleading conclusions made in the research. This could mean pumpkin seed oil only plays a small part in better hair growth. It also means more studies will be needed to better clarify its role.
Pumpkin seed oil contains high concentrations of phytosterol beta-sitosterol, which can block the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, preventing testosterone from breaking down into a byproduct called DHT. DHT is the primary hair loss hormone in most men and women. Therefore, pumpkin seed oil might offer promise in treating female pattern hair loss.
Overall, while there is some evidence to suggest that pumpkin seed oil may help with hair growth, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
