Why Are Flax Seeds Good For Hair Growth?
1. Great Source Of Vitamin E
Vitamin E contributes to hair growth because of its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which prevent hair and scalp damage (2). Vitamin E can also help prevent premature graying due to oxidative stress (3).
2. Rich In B Vitamins
Deficiency in B vitamins (riboflavin, folate, biotin, and vitamin B12) is associated with hair loss (4). Flax seeds are rich in vitamin B12, biotin, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, and folic acid (1). Consuming flax seeds can help replenish the low B vitamin levels, strengthen your hair, and promote hair growth.
3. Rich In Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) helps lower inflammation in the body, which can help reduce hair loss and hair weakness (5).
4. Replete With Protein
Protein is essential for hair growth. Flax seeds are a vegan/vegetarian and gluten-free source of protein (6). Consuming flax seeds helps reach the recommended daily protein intake easily, which, in turn, helps strengthen the hair.
5. Balance pH Levels And Oil Production
Anecdotal evidence suggests that flax seeds can help balance the scalps pH levels and oil production. These factors directly affect the rate at which your hair grows and its health. Flax seeds soothe the scalp and help calm the sebaceous glands so that they produce the right amount of oil for healthy hair growth.
6. Keep Your Hair Conditioned
Flax seeds help condition your hair, making it smooth and manageable. They help bind moisture to the hair shafts, controlling breakage, split ends, dryness, and frizz.
7. Soothe The Scalp
An itchy or sensitive scalp can weaken the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help soothe scalp inflammation and sensitivity. These are the 7 ways flax seeds help in hair growth. But how can you use them for hair growth? Check out the following section to know more.
How To Use Flax Seeds For Hair Growth
1. Flax Seed Oil For The Hair
You Will Need
2 tablespoons of flax seed oil A hot towel
Processing Time: 45 minutes Steps How This Helps The heat from the oil and the hot towel enables the goodness of flax seeds to penetrate your hair roots and shafts. This nourishes your scalp and hair and helps in healthy hair growth.
2. Flax Seed Hair Gel
You Will Need
1/4 cup of flax seeds 2 cups of filtered water 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Processing Time: 5 minutes Steps How This Helps This natural hair gel does not leave product buildup in your hair and boosts hair growth. These are the two ways you can use flax seeds for hair growth. However, consuming flax seeds is more effective in aiding hair growth. Here are the various ways to add flax seeds to your diet for better hair quality.
How To Include Flax Seeds In Your Diet For Hair Growth
1. Eat Raw Flax Seeds
Consume 2 tablespoons of raw flax seeds daily when you need a snack. Sprinkle a spoonful of flax seeds over stir-fried vegetables. Add a spoonful of flax seeds to your salads.
2. Ground Flax Seeds
Grinding flax seeds to a fine powder makes it easy to include in your diet. Grind the flax seeds and store the powder in an airtight jar. Keep it refrigerated and use in the following ways:
Add the flax seed powder to your oatmeal or soup. You can also add the powder to smoothies, cookies, muffins, or milk.
3. Flax Seeds And Yogurt
This is one of the most delicious flax seed snacks out there. You Will Need
1 cup of low-fat yogurt 1/2 cup of chopped strawberries 1/2 cup of blueberries 2 tablespoons of ground flax seed 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
Directions Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and serve. Consuming flax seeds is good for your hair and overall health. However, it comes with a set of side effects. Scroll down to know what they are.
Probable Side Effects You Should Know
Stomach cramps Diarrhea Low blood pressure Increase in estrogen levels, which is unfavorable during pregnancy. May interact with blood thinners and medicines for diabetes. Topical application may cause skin irritation.
Note: Stop using or consuming flax seeds immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms. Consult a doctor if things get severe. Does flaxseed cause hair loss? Discover how you can achieve silky, strong hair by using these easy yet effective hair mask recipes in the infographic below. Though it is uncommon, flax seeds may cause the scalp to become itchy and irritated. If you scratch your scalp aggressively, it could lead to hair follicle damage, indirectly causing hair loss. Perform a patch test to check for irritation or allergic reactions before applying flax seeds to your hair. How long does homemade flaxseed gel last? Homemade flaxseed gel lasts for about a week or two. But, if you add essential oils to it, it may last for 3-4 weeks when refrigerated. Can I leave flaxseed gel overnight on hair? Yes, you may leave flaxseed gel on your hair overnight. It is often used as a leave-in conditioner. However, rinse it off immediately if you experience any irritation or itchiness. Can I apply flaxseed gel to wet hair? Yes. In fact, it is ideal to apply flaxseed gel to wet hair as it is easier to work it through the strands. Does flaxseed gel thicken hair? Flaxseed gel helps strengthen hair strands and promotes hair growth. Hence, it also may help make your hair appear thicker. Does flaxseed make your hair curly? No, flaxseed does not make your hair curly. However, it can add definition and bounce to curly hair and make it frizz-free.
Sources
Flaxseeda potential functional food source,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4375225/ Effects of Tocotrienol Supplementation on Hair Growth in Human Volunteers,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3819075/ Oxidative Stress in Ageing of Hair,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2929555/ The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/ Nutrition of women with hair loss problem during the period of menopause,Link Seeds, flaxseed,https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169414/nutrients
