Ayurvedic Hair Care (oiling)
/I’ve had a volatile personal journey with hair health for the last 15 years and have tried most things. One thing that has remained constant for me is the Ayurvedic ritual of periodic and regular hair oiling.
Hair oiling is considered a self-care ritual in Ayurveda. It encourages mindfulness, self-nurturing, and taking time to connect with oneself while providing benefits not just for the hair but also for mental and emotional well-being.
Nourishment and moisture
Hair oiling provides deep nourishment and moisture to the hair and scalp. Ayurvedic hair oils are often formulated with herbal ingredients and carrier oils that penetrate the hair shaft, moisturise the scalp, and help combat dryness and brittleness.
Scalp health
Massaging the scalp with oil improves blood circulation and nourishes the hair follicles. It helps balance excess Vata (dryness) and promotes a healthy scalp environment, reducing issues like dandruff, itchiness, and scalp imbalances.
Hair strength and growth
Regular oiling strengthens the hair roots and enhances hair growth. The oil nourishes the hair follicles, providing essential nutrients and promoting a healthier environment for hair to grow.
Cooling and relaxation
Many Ayurvedic hair oils have cooling properties that help soothe the scalp and calm the nervous system. The act of oiling and massaging the scalp promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and encourages better sleep.
Protection and repair
Ayurvedic hair oils form a protective barrier around the hair strands, guarding them against environmental pollutants, heat, and damage caused by styling tools. The oils also help repair damaged hair, reduce split ends, and restore the hair's natural lustre and shine.
Ayurvedic herbal benefits
Ayurvedic hair oils are often infused with specific herbs and ingredients that have additional benefits for hair health. These herbs may include Bhringraj, Amla, Brahmi, Neem, and others known for their hair-strengthening, nourishing, and scalp-balancing properties.
Ayurveda suggests various ingredients that are beneficial for hair health when used in hair oil formulations. These ingredients are believed to nourish the hair, strengthen the roots, promote hair growth, and improve the overall health and appearance of the hair. Some commonly used ingredients in Ayurvedic hair oils include:
Bhringraj (eclipta prostrata)
also known as False Daisy, Bhringraj is known for its rejuvenating and hair-nourishing properties. It is believed to reduce hair fall, promote hair growth, prevent premature greying, and strengthen the hair follicles.Amla (Indian gooseberry)
Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help strengthen the hair, prevent hair loss, and promote hair growth. It also nourishes the scalp and adds shine to the hair.Brahmi (bacopa monnieri)
Brahmi is known for its calming and cooling properties. It helps reduce stress and nourishes the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth.Neem (azadirachta indica)
Neem has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat scalp infections and dandruff. It also promotes a healthy scalp environment for optimal hair growth.Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is widely used as a base oil in Ayurvedic hair oils. It nourishes the hair, prevents protein loss, and adds lustre and strength to the hair strands.Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations due to its nourishing and moisturising properties. It helps condition the hair, prevents dryness, and promotes a healthy scalp.Hibiscus (hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Hibiscus flowers and leaves are used for their hair-strengthening and conditioning properties. They nourish the hair follicles, prevent hair fall, and add shine to the hair.Jatamansi (nardostachys jatamansi)
Jatamansi has calming and soothing properties. It helps reduce scalp inflammation, nourishes the hair roots, and promotes healthy hair growth.
These ingredients are often combined with carrier oils such as coconut oil, sesame oil, or almond oil and infused with various herbs and essential oils to create Ayurvedic hair oils. It's important to note that individual hair types and conditions may benefit from different combinations of ingredients, so it's advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or hair care specialist to find the most suitable formulation for your specific needs.
Here are 9 Ayurvedic hair oil brands that are known for their quality products (click on name to redirect):
Triveda (discount code: geetavara5off)