Can Pumpkin Seed Oil Really Help with Hair Growth?
Most people only think about pumpkins at Halloween. But beyond decoration and seasonal pies, pumpkin seeds—especially pumpkin seed oil—may offer a surprising benefit: supporting hair growth.
A study from Pusan National University in South Korea explored whether pumpkin seed oil could help men with male pattern baldness.
What the Study Found
Researchers tested 76 men with moderate male pattern baldness. None had previously used hair-loss treatments.
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Half took 400 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily
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Half took a placebo
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The trial lasted 6 months
Results:
Pumpkin Seed Oil Group
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44% saw slight to moderate hair growth
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51% saw no change
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1 participant experienced slight hair loss
Placebo Group
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28% experienced hair loss
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64% saw no change
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7% saw slight to moderate hair growth
In short, men taking pumpkin seed oil were more likely to see improvement compared to those taking a placebo.
Why Might It Work?
Pumpkin seeds contain nutrients linked to hair health, including:
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Vitamin B complex
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Vitamin D
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Phytosterols, which may help block DHT (a hormone associated with male pattern baldness)
While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, researchers suggest pumpkin seed oil may interfere with DHT activity, similar to some conventional hair-loss medications—but potentially with fewer side effects.
What About Side Effects?
Only one participant reported mild stomach discomfort. No serious side effects were recorded.
This is notable because some prescription treatments for hair loss have been linked to sexual side effects. However, it’s important to remember:
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The study was relatively small
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It lasted only six months
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Long-term safety data is limited
Should You Start Taking Pumpkin Seed Oil?
The findings are promising—but not definitive.
This was a small study, and factors like genetics, diet, lifestyle, and overall health weren’t deeply examined in the summary reports. Larger, longer-term clinical trials are needed before drawing firm conclusions.
That said, pumpkin seeds are nutritious and generally safe when consumed in normal dietary amounts. Adding them to your diet is low risk—and potentially beneficial.
Bottom Line
Pumpkin seed oil may help improve hair growth in men with pattern baldness, according to early research. The results are encouraging, but more studies are needed before it can be considered a proven treatment.
Until then, pumpkin seeds remain a healthy addition to your diet—with or without the promise of thicker hair.
