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There’s no way you haven’t heard of flaxseeds even once in the last few years. You may or may not know about its benefits, but you must have definitely come across this superfood, also known as ‘Alsi’. Everyone’s talking about it, dietitians are recommending it, so there must be a good reason for all that hype, right? Of late, flaxseeds have gained a lot of popularity, and have emerged as a ‘superfood’ as more and more people have become aware of its numerous health benefits. In fact, did you know that people use flaxseeds for hair care too?
These tiny golden-brown seeds are considered very healthy, as they provide good fats, and are sources of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, lignans and antioxidants. You must have also seen flaxseeds used as a garnish in several baked goods, salads and smoothies. Not just in terms of nutrition, there are many flaxseeds benefits for hair as well! It is due to the various properties and benefits of flaxseeds that they are also often found in hair creams and hair gels that are available in stores. Scroll down to read more about flaxseed uses for hair, flaxseed benefits for hair growth, and much more.
Flaxseed Benefits For Hair
Flaxseeds aren’t called a ‘superfood’ for no reason! They are said to have plenty of benefits for your hair that eventually promote healthy, strong, and long tresses. The results may not be instantaneous, but will definitely be visible over a period of time. Below are a few flaxseeds benefits for hair growth.
Boosts Hair Growth
Try massaging flaxseed oil directly on your scalp if you are having trouble with healthy hair growth. Flaxseeds are rich sources of Vitamin E, and the vitamin is said to have natural antioxidant effects that could help with maintaining hair growth. Besides, massaging flaxseed oil also helps improve the blood circulation in the head, which boosts hair growth, and may also help with slowing hair fall due to aging.
Stronger Hair
Flaxseeds are loaded with nutrients and ingredients that nourish the hair. They contain B Vitamins, selenium, manganese, magnesium and copper, which help your hair grow stronger, and also nourish your scalp. The antioxidants help repair damaged hair follicles, keeping them healthy, so that the new hair growth can be healthier and stronger than before. These are some of the important flaxseeds benefits for hair.
Reduces Brittleness Of Hair
Using flaxseeds for hair is a great idea if you have hair breakage or brittle hair. Our hair is made of proteins, and deficiency of proteins can lead to brittle hair. Flaxseeds are good sources of protein, and can help maintain strong hair. Flaxseeds are also rich in Vitamin B and Vitamin E. Vitamin B promotes the growth of stronger hair while Vitamin E helps remove free radicals from the scalp promoting healthier hair growth. When applied, the oil in the seeds form a seal around the cuticle of your hair preventing it from breaking.
Moisturises the Scalp
Struggling with frizzy and dry hair? Using flaxseeds for hair could help! Flaxseeds contain Omega 3 fatty acids which are said to have moisturizing properties. It helps seal in the moisture in the hair and scalp, and can work well for those with dry and damaged hair due to heat styling or hair colouring. They also improve the elasticity of hair, thereby preventing breakage.
Reduced Inflammation
Flaxseeds are sources of inflammation-reducing Omega-3 fatty acid ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). ALA is one of the two fatty acids that our body has to obtain from food, as our body doesn’t produce them. ALA is not just good for your heart health, but it also reduces inflammation, which is linked to several diseases throughout our body, and can also affect hair growth. A few studies also suggest that omega-3s may improve hair health, especially for those suffering from hair loss, however, the evidence is limited.
How To Use Flaxseeds For Hair
Don’t wish to go through chemical-laden hair treatments to help with great hair? Well then, some home hacks using flaxseeds is just what you need! Flaxseeds have so many benefits, are jam-packed with nutrients, and are non-toxic.
Confused about how to use flaxseeds for hair? Just scroll ahead!
Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is available in stores, and it can be applied to your hair and scalp directly to reap flaxseeds benefits for hair. You can also warm it up slightly and massage it into your scalp using your fingertips. Also, do not forget to apply the oil in the shaft and the tips.
Flaxseed Gel
You can also use flaxseed gel for hair and it can easily be made at home. All you need is some flaxseeds, water, and a muslin cloth. You can also add essential oils or aloe vera gel to it. It is generally used on the hair to reduce dryness, promote growth and make it less frizzy. Did you know flaxseed gel defines and moisturizes curly hair, and helps with styling too?! Use the flaxseed gel every day to keep your hair conditioned, especially if you have a dry scalp and dull hair.
Eat Flaxseeds
Yes, you can incorporate flaxseeds in your diet to gain flaxseeds benefits for hair and all the health benefits of flaxseeds. Do not consume it raw as it can cause indigestion. Ground or milled flaxseeds make for a better option. Sprinkle them on your salad, or your smoothie, and enjoy its nutty flavour! However, eat flaxseeds in moderation.
FAQs
How Long Does Homemade Flaxseed Gel Last?
Flaxseed gel benefits for hair are many, but the homemade gel has a limited shelf life, which is why preparing it in small quantities works well. When refrigerated, homemade flaxseed gel should last a week or two without added preservatives. If preservatives are used in the making, the gel can last up to several months. Tip: You can prepare cubes of the gel and use them one at a time.
How Do You Prep Before Using Flaxseed Gel?
It is recommended to wash your hair with a water-based moisturizing cleanser, prior to applying flaxseed gel. After the cleanse, use a hydrating conditioner. You are now ready to apply flaxseed gel to your hair!
How To Make Your Own DIY Flaxseed Gel?
Start by putting 1/4 cup of flaxseeds in a pan and start heating them. Add 2.5 cups of water to the pan and turn the flame to high. Bring the water to a boil while simultaneously stirring the mixture so that it does not coagulate at the bottom of the pan. Remember to use a wooden spoon to avoid the mixture from sticking to the spoon. After boiling for about 5 minutes, turn the burner off and let the gel cool. Cover the pan and leave it for an hour.
Take a bowl and wrap it with a cheesecloth or a muslin cloth, and pour the gel on it. Let the gel sit for a few minutes on the cloth and then squeeze the cloth over another bowl or a mason jar to collect the pure gel without the seeds. Voila, your flaxseed gel for hair is ready! Use it right away or store it in the fridge.
How Do Flaxseeds Help With Hair Growth?
B Vitamins present in flaxseeds are said to make your hair grow stronger and at a quicker rate. Meanwhile, Vitamin E present in flaxseeds reduces free radical damage on your scalp, thus promoting hair growth, and eventually stronger hair follicles.
More On Flaxseed Benefits
Best Foods for Hair Growth: Try including these foods for hair growth in your diet to achieve long and luscious locks.
Benefits of Black Seed Oil for Hair: Read on to find out about the benefits of black seed oil for hair, and how to use black seed oil for hair growth.
Benefits Of Flaxseeds: Not just your hair, flaxseeds also have numerous other health benefits. It helps in weight loss, reduces the risk of cancer, boosts the immune system, and much more! Find out all about it here.
Flaxseeds For Skin: Flaxseeds work wonders for your skin! From moisturizing your skin to reducing pigmentation, here’s all you need to know about the benefits of flaxseeds for skin.
Biotin For Hair Growth: Beauty benefits of biotin for hair that makes it a must-have ingredient.
Now that you are aware of all the flaxseed benefits for hair growth, as well as how to use flaxseeds for hair, go ahead and give it a try!
Featured Image: Freepik, Pixabay
