How To Use Flax Seeds For Hair Growth

Flax seeds for hair growth are gaining attention for the array of benefits they offer. These tiny seeds are rich in vitamins B, E, and omega 3 fatty acids (1). Regular use of flax seeds helps maintain a smooth hair texture and nourishes hair follicles. In this article, we have discussed how you can use flax seeds to improve hair health and promote hair growth through natural remedies. Read on to know more.

Know Your Ingredient: Flax Seeds

What Is It?

Flat, oval-shaped seeds whose oil or gel can be applied for hair health.

What Are Its Benefits?

It can prevent premature hair graying, reduce hair fall, strengthen hair, and promote hair growth.

Who Can Use It?

While it is safe to be used on all hair types, those with damaged hair and scalp might find it beneficial.

How Often?

You can consume 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed a day or apply the oil or gel to your hair daily or as needed.

Caution

Avoid using flaxseed if you experience any digestive issues or skin allergies.

What Are Flax Seeds?

Flax seeds, scientifically known as Linum usitatissimum, are tiny, nutrient-dense seeds harvested from the flax plant. Flax seeds and their oil are rich in essential nutrients and known for their potential health benefits, including promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and aiding digestion (2), (3), (4). These seeds can be ground into flaxseed meal or used whole as a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking. They add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to various dishes, such as smoothies, cereals, and salads. Flax seeds are a popular choice among health-conscious individuals due to their nutritional value. Learn more about their ability to boost hair growth in the next section.

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 (5). Vitamin E can also help prevent premature graying due to oxidative stressⁱ  XA discrepancy between antioxidant defenses and free radicals in the body that lead to cell damage and various diseases. (6).

2. Rich In B Vitamins

Deficiency in B vitamins (riboflavin, folate, biotin, and vitamin B12) is associated with hair loss (7). 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 (8).

4. Replete With Protein

Protein is essential for hair growth. Flax seeds are a vegan/vegetarian and gluten-free source of protein (9). 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 pHⁱ  XA scale used to identify the acidity or basicity of a substance by measuring the potential of hydrogen ions in it. 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.

Joyo, a blogger, shared her experience of using flax seed gel for her naturally curly hair. She said, “This gel gave my hair an amazing shine. It softens and made my curls pop.Flax seed gel helped me appreciate my shrinkage more, as it made my curls and twist outs super defined and gorgeous without the dryness and crunchiness (i).”

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 benefit hair growth. But how can you use flax seeds 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

1. Heat the flax seed oil in a bowl for a few seconds until it is slightly warm.
2. Massage this oil onto your scalp for about 15 minutes.
3. Apply it to your hair lengths.
4. Wrap your hair with a hot towel. You can heat the towel in the oven, dip it in hot water, or use a blow dryer to heat it.
5. Wait for 30 minutes.
6. Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
7. Do this 2-3 times a week.

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. Using flax seeds for hair 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

1. Boil the water and flax seeds in a pot until the liquid starts to thicken.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir the liquid.
3. Turn off the heat once the liquid reaches a gel-like consistency. Set it aside to cool.
4. Strain and collect this gel in a jar.
5. Use it to style your hair every morning. You can also use it as a topical treatment for your scalp to boost hair growth.
6. Repeat this daily

How This Helps

This natural hair gel does not leave product buildup in your hair and boosts hair growth.

Quick Tip

If you have low porosity hairⁱ  XLow water absorption and ability to retain moisture due to densely packed cuticles in the hair shaft. and want to apply flaxseed gel to it, do not apply any other oil or cream along with it to your tresses. Doing so can weigh your hair down more and make it look limp and greasy.

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.

Quick Tip

You can also make a flaxseed dip with soaked pulses and garlic as well as a flaxseed chutney with raw mango, ginger, and spices.

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.

If you do not like how flax seeds taste, you can consume their nutritional supplements.

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 estrogenⁱ  XFemale sex hormones responsible for the development of sexual characteristics and maintenance of reproductive health. 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.

Infographic: DIY Flaxseed Oil Hair Masks

Flaxseed and its oil are replete with beneficial nutrients that can help you achieve healthy, shiny mane. You can use this wonderful oil alone or mix it with your DIY hair mask recipes to maximize its benefits. Discover how you can achieve silky, strong hair by using these easy yet effective hair mask recipes listed in the infographic below.

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does flaxseed cause hair loss?

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 for hair loss prevention.

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.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Vd. Naveen SharmaBAMS, Ayurveda Specialist

 

Dr. Naveen Sharma is a renowned Ayurveda specialist with an experience of 10 years. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery(B. A. M. S) from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, in 2007. He has a professional membership with AYUSH. Dr. Sharma’s specialties include cancer, liver disorders, autoimmune disorders, lifestyle disorders, migraine, hair fall, PCOD...more

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