What to drink for hirsutism?: A comprehensive guide to nutrition and diet

October 6, 2025 •

4 min read

Hirsutism affects 5% to 10% of women worldwide, and while pharmaceutical and cosmetic interventions are common, dietary changes can offer a complementary approach. Certain beverages, particularly herbal teas, have shown promising anti-androgenic effects that may help manage the hormonal imbalances that drive unwanted hair growth.

Quick Summary

This guide details effective beverage choices for managing hirsutism, including hormonal-balancing herbal teas like spearmint and green tea, and other nutrient-rich drinks. It covers the science behind these choices and provides practical advice for incorporating them into a daily diet for better hormonal health.

Key Points

Spearmint tea directly reduces free testosterone : Studies suggest that consuming spearmint tea can lower free testosterone levels, which are linked to hirsutism.
Green tea targets inflammation and insulin : The antioxidants in green tea, particularly EGCG, can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation associated with conditions like PCOS.
Flaxseed water helps eliminate androgens : The lignans in ground flaxseed can bind to excess androgens, aiding the body in removing them and potentially reducing hirsutism.
Licorice root tea can lower testosterone : This herb contains compounds that inhibit enzymes in androgen synthesis, though high doses require caution due to potential side effects.
Avoid sugary and processed drinks : Beverages high in sugar cause insulin spikes, which can worsen hormonal imbalances and increase androgen production.
Maintain excellent hydration with water : Drinking plenty of filtered water supports the liver's function in processing and clearing excess hormones from the body.
Combine with a holistic approach : For best results, incorporate these drinks with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management to address the root causes of hormonal imbalance.

The hormonal connection to hirsutism

Hirsutism, characterized by excess coarse hair growth in women, is primarily driven by hormonal imbalances, specifically high levels of male hormones, or androgens. A common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but it can also be idiopathic (with no known cause). The key lies in managing these androgen levels, and dietary adjustments, including strategic beverage choices, can play a significant supportive role. By focusing on drinks with anti-androgenic and anti-inflammatory properties, it's possible to complement medical treatments and lifestyle changes.

Spearmint tea: The star anti-androgen

Spearmint tea is perhaps the most well-researched and cited herbal remedy for hirsutism, with several studies demonstrating its anti-androgenic effects. Regular consumption has been shown to reduce free testosterone levels, a significant factor in excessive hair growth.

Mechanism of action: Spearmint works by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Usage in studies: Research on spearmint tea has involved consuming the tea made from dried leaves to observe its effects on free testosterone. For best results, choose a tea explicitly labeled as 100% spearmint.

Green tea and its antioxidant power

Beyond its general health benefits, green tea offers potential advantages for managing hirsutism. It is rich in catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which also possesses anti-androgenic properties.

Insulin and inflammation: Green tea can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, both of which are common issues in conditions like PCOS that exacerbate hirsutism.
Preparation: Opt for high-quality loose-leaf green tea and steep it for a few minutes. Unsweetened versions are best to avoid blood sugar spikes.

Other beneficial drinks for hirsutism

Several other beverages can support hormonal balance and overall health, aiding in the management of hirsutism:

Flaxseed water: Ground flaxseeds are rich in lignans, which can bind to and help remove excess androgens from the body. Ground flaxseed can be mixed into a glass of water.
Licorice root tea: This tea contains compounds that have been shown to reduce testosterone levels by inhibiting enzymes involved in androgen production. Use with caution and consult a doctor, as high consumption can have side effects like elevated blood pressure.
Nettle leaf tea: Nettle acts as a natural diuretic and may support the liver's ability to process hormones effectively. It also contains compounds that can help block androgens.
Apple cider vinegar: While not a traditional tea, a small amount of apple cider vinegar in water can help improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for those with PCOS-related hirsutism.

Drinks to limit or avoid

Just as certain drinks can help, others can worsen hormonal imbalances and inflammation, contributing to hirsutism. It's best to limit or avoid:

Sugary beverages: Sodas, sweetened teas, and fruit juices can cause rapid insulin spikes, which fuel androgen production.
Excessive alcohol: Regular alcohol intake can disrupt hormonal balance and negatively impact the liver, which is crucial for hormone metabolism.
Processed drinks: These often contain artificial additives and inflammatory ingredients that offer no nutritional benefit and can exacerbate symptoms.

Hydration's crucial role

Proper hydration is a foundational element of managing hirsutism. Drinking plenty of water supports the body's natural detoxification processes, including the liver's ability to clear excess hormones. Filtered, plain water should be the primary beverage choice throughout the day. Seltzer water with natural fruit infusions can be a great way to add flavor without sugar.

Comparison of hormone-balancing drinks


Feature	Spearmint Tea	Green Tea	Flaxseed Water	Licorice Root Tea
Primary Benefit	Direct reduction of testosterone	Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support	Binds to and removes excess androgens	Reduces testosterone production
Mechanism	Inhibits 5-alpha reductase	Rich in EGCG, inhibits 5-alpha reductase	High in lignans that bind to androgens	Inhibits key enzymes in androgen synthesis
Usage in Studies	Used in trials to assess effects	Commonly consumed for benefits	Incorporated into daily intake in studies	A small trial assessed effects
Best for...	Direct free testosterone reduction	Insulin resistance and inflammation	Enhancing androgen elimination	Powerful but risky testosterone reduction
Considerations	Ensure 100% spearmint, generally safe	Moderate caffeine, choose high quality	Use ground seeds and keep refrigerated	High dosage risks high blood pressure

Conclusion

While cosmetic treatments and medications are often necessary for managing hirsutism, incorporating certain drinks into a balanced diet can provide a powerful supportive strategy. Spearmint tea stands out for its well-documented anti-androgenic effects, while green tea and flaxseed water offer complementary benefits by addressing insulin resistance, inflammation, and androgen elimination. Proper hydration with plain water is always the foundation for hormonal health. By focusing on these beneficial beverages and limiting sugary, processed, and alcoholic options, individuals can work towards more balanced hormone levels and a reduction in unwanted hair growth. It is crucial to remember that natural remedies are most effective as part of a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise, and stress management. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary regimen, especially when dealing with underlying conditions like PCOS. Further information on herbal remedies can be found at the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Studies have shown that consuming spearmint tea can reduce free testosterone levels in as little as 5 to 30 days, but it may take several months to see a noticeable reduction in hair growth due to the hair growth cycle. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized expectations.

While green tea offers anti-inflammatory and insulin-balancing benefits, spearmint tea has more direct anti-androgenic effects. Combining them or choosing based on your primary symptoms (e.g., insulin resistance with PCOS) might be most effective. Both are safe to consume in moderation. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

To prepare flaxseed water, simply mix ground flaxseed into a glass of water. It's important to use ground flaxseed, as the body cannot properly absorb the lignans from whole seeds. Consult a healthcare provider for information on appropriate amounts.

Yes, high consumption of licorice root can cause side effects like elevated blood pressure, fluid retention, and potassium imbalances. It should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with heart, liver, or kidney conditions. Always consult a doctor before use.

While hydration doesn't directly cause or cure hirsutism, it is crucial for overall hormonal health. Adequate water intake supports the liver's ability to process and eliminate excess hormones, including androgens, which can indirectly help manage the condition.

You should limit or avoid drinks high in sugar, such as sodas, sweetened juices, and sugary teas, as they can cause insulin spikes that increase androgen production. Excessive alcohol should also be avoided as it can disrupt hormonal balance.

Combining different herbal teas, such as spearmint and green tea, is generally considered safe and may offer a wider range of benefits. However, it's wise to start slowly with one new tea at a time to monitor your body's reaction and to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.