If you are looking for ways to improve your hair health, you may have come across various products that claim to promote hair growth and thickness. However, not all of them are effective, safe, or affordable. Some may even contain harsh chemicals that can damage your hair or scalp.
Fortunately, there are some natural home remedies that can help you achieve stronger, healthier, and longer hair. These remedies use ingredients that are easily available, inexpensive, and gentle on your hair. They also have scientific evidence to back up their benefits.
In this article, we will share with you some of the best home remedies for hair growth and strength, based on recent research. We will also explain how to use them and what precautions to take. Let’s get started!
1. Protein
Protein is one of the most important nutrients for hair growth and strength. Your hair is made up of a protein called keratin, which gives it structure and elasticity. Without enough protein, your hair can become weak, brittle, and prone to breakage.
To boost your protein intake, you can eat more foods that are rich in protein, such as eggs, meat, fish, dairy products, beans, nuts, and seeds. You can also use protein-rich ingredients to make hair masks or treatments that can nourish your hair from the outside.
For example, you can make an egg yolk mask by mixing one egg yolk with two tablespoons of olive oil and applying it to your scalp and hair. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water and shampoo. Egg yolk contains protein, biotin, and other vitamins that can strengthen your hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
2. Iron
Iron is another essential nutrient for hair growth and strength. Iron helps your red blood cells carry oxygen to your cells, including your hair follicles. Without enough iron, your hair follicles may not get enough oxygen and nutrients to produce healthy hair.
Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss, especially in women. To prevent or treat iron deficiency, you can eat more foods that are high in iron, such as red meat, liver, spinach, shellfish, lentils, and pumpkin seeds. You can also take iron supplements if your doctor recommends them.
However, be careful not to take too much iron, as it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, or even iron poisoning. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
3. Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to improve your physical and mental well-being. Some essential oils have been shown to stimulate hair growth and improve hair quality by increasing blood circulation to the scalp, reducing inflammation, and balancing hormones.
Some of the best essential oils for hair growth and strength are:
– Lavender: Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that can soothe scalp irritation and prevent infections. It also has a relaxing effect that can reduce stress and promote sleep quality.
– Rosemary: Rosemary oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect your hair from damage and stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. It also has a stimulating effect that can enhance memory and alertness.
– Cedarwood: Cedarwood oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent scalp infections and inflammation. It also has a calming effect that can reduce stress and anxiety.
– Thyme: Thyme oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can prevent scalp infections and dandruff. It also has a warming effect that can increase blood circulation to the scalp and stimulate hair growth.
– Tulsi: Tulsi oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect your hair from oxidative stress and inflammation. It also has a soothing effect that can reduce stress and depression.
To use aromatherapy for hair growth and strength, you can mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp and leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Then wash it off with shampoo and conditioner.
You can also inhale the scent of the essential oils by adding a few drops to a diffuser or a cotton ball and placing it near your nose.
However, be careful not to apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin or scalp, as they can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Always do a patch test before using any new product on your skin or scalp.
4. Scalp Massage
Scalp massage is a simple but effective way to improve your hair growth and strength. Massaging your scalp can increase blood flow to your hair follicles, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to them. It can also relax your muscles and nerves, reducing stress and tension that can affect your hair health.
A small Japanese study found that men who massaged their scalps for 4 minutes per day with a scalp massage device had thicker hair after 6 months. You can use your fingertips or a scalp massage device to massage your scalp in gentle circular motions. You can also add some oil or conditioner to your scalp to make the massage more comfortable and moisturizing.
You can massage your scalp for a few minutes every day or whenever you feel like it. You can do it before, during, or after washing your hair, or before going to bed.
5. Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seed oil is a natural oil that is extracted from pumpkin seeds. It contains fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can benefit your hair growth and strength. It can also inhibit the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone that can cause hair loss in some people.
A 2014 study found that men taking 400 milligrams (mg) of pumpkin seed oil for 6 months experienced a 40 percent increase in average hair count, whereas those taking a placebo only experienced a 10 percent increase.
To use pumpkin seed oil for hair growth and strength, you can take it as a supplement or apply it topically to your scalp and hair. You can also add it to your diet by using it as a salad dressing or cooking oil.
However, be careful not to take too much pumpkin seed oil, as it can cause side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
6. Saw palmetto
Saw palmetto is a plant that has been used for centuries for various health benefits. It is also known to reduce DHT levels and improve hair growth in men and women with androgenetic alopecia. Saw palmetto can be taken as a supplement or applied as a topical solution to the scalp.
These are some of the best home remedies for hair growth and strength that you can try at home. They are natural, safe, and effective ways to improve your hair health and appearance. However, remember that these remedies are not magic solutions that can give you instant results. You need to be consistent and patient with them to see noticeable changes in your hair.
Also, keep in mind that there are many factors that can affect your hair growth and strength, such as genetics, age, hormones, health conditions, medications, diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Therefore, it is important to address any underlying issues that may be causing your hair problems and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
