Does beta-sitosterol work for hair loss?

There is not enough evidence that beta-sitosterol treats hair loss, reports WebMD. Some men experiencing baldness have reported increased hair growth when taking beta-sitosterol, but researchers must study the supplement's effects on hair loss in the lab to show if it is effective or not.

People at risk for heart disease may take beta-sitosterol to lower their overall blood cholesterol levels and their levels of low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, explains WebMD. LDL cholesterol is sometimes called bad cholesterol because it can cause atherosclerosis, which can lead to high blood pressure and a heart attack. Beta-sitosterol comes from fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds.