Our vanity lies in our hair and we go to great lengths to keep our mane healthy. But we are also aware that some damage is unavoidable and we enlist the help of various different products in the market to get the crowning glory back. While we are ready to lighten our pockets with the expensive treatments and products offered outside, there are many natural products in our kitchen that promise to do the same. Of course, some commitment and time is required when using natural ingredients for hair care but the results will be worth all pain. So, let’s have a look at a few of those ingredients that we have rounded up for you today.
Methi/Fenugreek seeds
As Ayurveda always said, now research also shows that the antibacterial and antifungal properties of methi seeds help remove dandruff and the bacteria that causes it. The proteins and lecithin found in methi reduce hair fall and strengthen them while maintaining the natural keratin of our hair. It is loaded with iron and protein, which are both known to boost hair growth. It is touted to keep scalp irritations at bay and bolster scalp health.
How to use:
- You can simply grind the seeds and use the powder to make a paste for a hair pack.
- Methi seeds can also be soaked overnight and then ground to a paste to use as a hair pack.
- You may drink the water in which the seeds were soaked overnight to get similar benefits. Though always consult your doctor before taking it orally.
- Make a DIY pack by adding other natural ingredients to make a methi pack even more potent.
Onion
This affordable home remedy shows promise in preventing hair loss. The magic component, sulphur, in onions seems to regenerate hair follicles and thus helps promote hair growth and thickness. Some flavonoids in onions dilate the blood vessels thus promoting blood flow to the scalp.
It helps promote collagen production which increases the elasticity and growth of your tresses. As some believe, onion juice on hair may reverse premature greying and also delay the greying. Though this is not proven yet, onions definitely promote healthy hair cells and that alone should inspire you to give this pungent vegetable a try.
How to use:
- Simply chop up the onions and blend them well. Sieve the juice and apply to your hair for 30 minutes before using a mild shampoo.
- You can also add this onion juice to your regular shampoo and leave it on for 5 minutes before rinsing it off.
- If you add a few drops of lemon juice to it, you can rest assured that the pungent smell of onions will not haunt you or others around.
- You can also add olive oil, coconut oil or honey to the onion juice to leave in for 20-30 minutes. This helps get rid of an itchy scalp.
Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV has been applauded as a home remedy for many ailments and this holds true for your locks too. The acetic acid in ACV regulates the pH balance of the hair and thus is responsible for taming the frizz. The alpha-hydroxy acid keeps dandruff at bay and its antimicrobial and antifungal properties keep dandruff and itchiness-causing bacteria away. The vitamin and mineral content in ACV help promote and stimulate hair growth. ACV also boosts shine in your hair as it can get rid of the residue left in the hair from products and pollution.
How to use:
- Always remember that ACV is caustic and thus needs to be diluted with water.
- For removing frizz and bringing in shine, dilute ACV with water and after your regular shampoo, pour/spray this as a rinse. Leave it in for a few minutes and rinse with water.
- For help with dandruff, dilute ACV with water and rub into scalp thoroughly. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wash off with cold water.
- You can also make hair masks with diluted ACV along with coconut oil, olive oil, honey, aloe vera or curd as per your issue.
Neem Leaves
This miracle tree has been recognised by Ayurveda for curing many ailments when used externally or internally. It has wonderful benefits for skin and hair alike. The antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties of neem leaves make them a powerful weapon again dandruff and fungal infections. It has also been used to ward off nasty lice infestations. Neem leaves are known to add volume and shine to your dull locks when used regularly. It can make your hair follicles stronger and thus promote hair growth while curbing hair loss.
How to use:
- Sun-dried neem leaves can be powdered and kept for different ways to use on hair or skin.
- You can make a paste with just the neem powder and water and apply to clean hair for about 40 minutes. Wash it off thoroughly with water.
- Neem powder can be added to coconut oil and boiled. After resting it for a couple of hours, massage it into your hair and leave overnight.
- You can make a hair pack with neem powder/ground neem leaves and curd to leave in for 20-30 minutes before shampooing it off.
So, choose these natural ingredients from Mother Earth’s lap to get health back into your crowning glory!
Article by Payal Kurian
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