Flaxseed for Hair Growth: How to Use, Tips, & More
Key Insights
1) Powerhouse of Nutrients: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, lignans, and protein, all essential for promoting hair growth and reducing inflammation in the scalp.
2) Versatile Application: You can use flax seeds for hair growth in different forms, or include them in your diet for complete hair health.
3) Affordable and Sustainable: A natural, budget-friendly alternative to synthetic hair products with added benefits for hair health and growth.
4) Stay Consistent: Regular use, both internally and externally, over 8-12 weeks ensures noticeable hair growth and strength.
Standing in front of the mirror, have you ever felt that hair looks thinner or duller than it used to? Ever thought why has this happened? And what did you try to make them fuller and shiny like before?
You'd have tried many remedies for hair growth that might or might not have worked for you. But today we have brought something that will help your hair grow back real quick!
Flax Seeds! Known as Alsi in India, flax seeds for hair growth are no less than a boon. This superfood is packed with nutrients that not only enhance your health but also work wonders for your hair.
Let's break it down for you, step by step, making it easier to integrate flaxseed for hair growth into your routine.
Table of Contents
2. Why You Should Use Flaxseed?
3. How to Use Flaxseed for Hair Growth?
4. Additional Tips: Flaxseed for Hair Growth
5. Conclusion
6. FAQs on Flaxseed for Hair Growth
7. References
What is Flaxseed?
Flaxseed, also known as linseed or flax, is a tiny brown or golden seed that comes from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). While the cultivation of flax has been done for thousands of years for its fiber (used to make linen), now the flax seeds are also gaining attention because of the amazing benefits they provide. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and antioxidants, flax seeds are often recognized as a superfood.
Along with providing support to heart health, weight management, and digestion, flax seeds also support hair health by providing nourishment to your scalp, strengthening hair follicles, and promoting growth from within.
Why You Should Use Flaxseed for Hair Growth?
Flaxseeds contain a powerhouse of nutrients that directly support hair growth and scalp health. Here's why flaxseed deserves a spot in your hair care routine: [1]
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flaxseeds are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), which are essential for maintaining a healthy scalp, even more than found in fish, just the type of omega-3 fatty acid is different in both. Omega-3s reduce inflammation, nourish hair follicles, and promote stronger hair strands, reducing breakage and also supporting hair growth.
2. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that protects hair follicles from free radical damage, which can cause breakage and premature hair loss. It also helps in improving the blood circulation in the scalp, ensuring better nutrient delivery to the hair roots.
Also Read: How to Meet Your Vitamin E Daily Requirement: Dosage and Tips to Increase
3. Lignans
Flaxseeds are one of the highest plant sources of lignans, a bioactive compound that has antioxidant benefits. Thus, it helps reduce inflammation in the scalp and creates a perfect environment for hair growth. [2]
4. Protein
Hair is primarily made up of keratin, a protein. Flaxseeds contain amino acids that help repair damaged hair strands, strengthen them from within, and promote hair growth.
How to Use Flaxseed for Hair Growth?
Flax seeds for hair growth can give a multitude of benefits for hair, like helping in reducing hair fall, stimulating hair growth, controlling frizziness, and improving scalp health. There are multiple ways you can use flax seeds to boost hair health, such as:
1. Flax Seed Gel
One of the most effective and popular ways to use flaxseed for hair growth is by making a gel out of it. Flaxseed gel is a natural alternative to store-bought serums or conditioners. Wondering how to make flaxseed gel for hair growth? we've got you covered. You can easily make flaxseed gel by processing or cooking flax seeds at home. [3]
Let's understand how to make flaxseed gel at home:
Ingredients to Make Flaxseed Gel:
- ¼ cup of whole flaxseeds
- 2 cups of water
- Optional: A few drops of essential oil (like lavender or tea tree)
How to Make Flaxseed Gel?
- In a saucepan, boil the flaxseeds in water on medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- As the mixture thickens to a gel-like consistency (about 10 minutes), remove it from the heat.
- Strain the gel using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth while it's warm.
- Let it cool, then add essential oils for added benefits.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
How to Use Flaxseed Gel for Hair Growth?
- On clean, damp hair, apply the gel directly to your scalp and hair strands.
- Massage gently for a few minutes to improve blood circulation.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Use it 1-2 times a week for the best results.
2. Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is a nutrient-rich elixir for your hair. You can easily find flaxseed oil in the market to be used for your hair. Here's how to get the most of its benefits:
- Warm a small amount of flaxseed oil.
- Massage it into your scalp for 10-15 minutes.
- Wrap your hair in a warm towel and leave it for 1-2 hours (or overnight).
- Wash it off with a gentle shampoo.
Also Read: 9 Easy Ways on How to Increase Hair Growth Naturally
3. Flaxseed Hair Mask
Flaxseed hair masks are an excellent way to deeply condition your hair and scalp. You can make one easily at your home or may even get any flaxseed-based hair mask in the market as well.
Let's make a homemade mask with flaxseed for hair growth:
Ingredients for Flaxseed Hair Mask:
- 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon of yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of honey
How to Make & Use Flaxseed Hair Mask?
- Mix the ingredients into a smooth paste.
- Apply to your hair and scalp, focusing on the roots.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
4. Adding Flax Seeds To Your Diet
Topical application is great, but consuming flax seeds ensures your body gets the nutrients it needs for healthy hair from within. Here are some tips to incorporate flax seeds into your diet:
- Sprinkle ground flaxseed on salads, smoothies, or oatmeal.
- Add flaxseed powder to your morning juice or cereal.
- Incorporate it into homemade baked goods like muffins or bread.
- Simply take flax seeds or mixed seeds as a snack in between your meals.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Flaxseed for Hair Growth
1) Choose Organic Flax Seeds for Maximum Benefits: Always opt for organic flaxseeds to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. Organic seeds retain more nutrients, which means better results for your hair. Check the packaging for certifications and avoid pre-ground flaxseeds, as they lose nutrients quickly.
2) Combine Topical Application with Dietary Intake: For the best results, use flaxseed both internally and externally. While flaxseed gel works wonders on your hair from the outside, consuming flaxseeds daily boosts your hair from within as well. So it's better to add it into your routine both internally and externally.
3) Be Consistent: With anything that you use, being consistent is the key to seeing noticeable changes. Stick to your routine of applying flaxseed gel or consuming flaxseeds regularly for at least 8–12 weeks.
Also Read: Top 6 Vitamins for Hair Growth and Thickness That Actually Works
4) Store Flaxseed Gel Properly: Homemade flaxseed gel is quite effective but needs proper storage to make it retain its benefits. Always store the gel in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically stays good for about one week. To extend its shelf life, you can add some natural preservatives like vitamin E oil.
5) Patch-Test Before Use: Before applying flaxseed gel to your entire scalp, do a quick patch test on a small area of skin. However, flaxseed is natural and generally safe, some individuals may have sensitivity or allergies.
For more tips on reducing hair fall, watch the video below:
Conclusion
Flaxseed is a natural treasure for anyone who wants to improve their hair health and make their hair grow. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and other essential nutrients, flax seeds for hair growth work wonders, both when taken externally or internally. So whether you choose to apply flaxseed for hair growth topically or include flaxseeds in your daily diet, consistency is the key to getting the best results.
So start your journey using flax seeds for hair growth today, and let your hair experience all the benefits of this powerful ingredient.
Frequently Asked Questions on Flaxseed for Hair Growth
Q1 - How to make flaxseed gel for hair growth?
You can make your own natural and effective flaxseed gel at home by boiling flaxseeds with water in a pan until a gel-like consistency comes. Strain the mixture and apply it to your hair and scalp when cooled. Leave it for 30-40 minutes and then rinse it thoroughly with water.
Q2 - Can I apply flaxseed gel daily on my hair?
Yes, flax seeds are generally safe to be applied daily as they have gentle and hydrating properties. You may also start by applying the gel 1-2 times a week and then adjust monitoring your scalp's reaction to it.
Q3 - Should I shampoo after applying flaxseed gel?
Yes, after keeping flax seed gel for 30-40 minutes on your hair, you can rinse it off and then shampoo as normal.
Q4 - Can I leave flaxseed gel on my hair all day?
Yes, you can leave flaxseed gel on your hair all night or all day because there are no side effects. However, if you face any kind of irritation, consider removing it immediately.
Q5 - Does flaxseed increase hair growth?
Flax seeds for hair growth are a smart choice as flax seeds contain many essential nutrients, such as B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, thus, playing a crucial role in promoting hair growth.
References
