Over the past few centuries, most people have relied on contemporary medicine for the management of their ailments involving their hair.
However, right now, the tides are changing. And there seems to be no better way of getting a more natural, yet fulfilling, treatment method for your hair like using natural oils.
The good thing about natural oils is that they are natural – just as their name suggests.
But,
How Does This Benefit A User Like You?
Natural oils for hair:
- Have minimal-to-no side effects, especially when compared to contemporary treatment plans with the same mechanism of action.
- Are very cost effective if you put into account the reward you get from using them
- Are free of dangerous chemicals, making them safe both for your home and the environment around you.
When it comes to natural oils to meet your hair needs, there are quite several beneficial choices to make.
Your choice will depend on whether you want to:
- Maintain a thick hair
- Treat hair infections like dandruff
- Alleviate dryness of your scalp
- Strengthen your hair and to make it shine
- Make your hair lighter naturally
- Improve blood flow to your hair follicles
Top 5 Best Natural Oils for Your Top Hair Concerns
1. Lavender
Many studies have explored the pharmacological benefits of lavender in hair maintenance and growth.
A 2014 study based on toxicological research about lavender concluded that it could promote the growth of hair without toxic signs.
This study revealed that lavender can work equally as beneficial as contemporary medications, and is safe and doesn’t cause any side effects.
Another study in 2016 evaluated the effects of lavender oil on hair growth in mice. The study used minoxidil in the control group and lavender oil in the test group.
The results revealed that lavender oil significantly increases the number of hair follicles, thickens the layer of the dermis and also deepens the depth of the hair follicle.
Other studies have proven that lavender oil has potent antimicrobial properties which can combat both bacterial and fungal infections of the scalp. Moreover, lavender oil can help heal dry skin and soothe your scalp.
2. Rosemary
If you have always fancied treating your hair with the best natural oils, then you must have encountered rosemary essential oil for hair.
It is one of the best essential oils for increasing the thickness of your hair. It does this by increase the metabolic rate at the cellular level, which in turn stimulates the growth of hair and promotes healing.
One 2015 study characteristically concluded that rosemary oil is equally as effective as minoxidil in the treatment of hair loss.
The study further reveals that rosemary is useful in the treatment of androgenic alopecia – by preventing the development of bald hair, slowing graying of hair and treating dandruff.
3. Olive oil
If you have damaged, dull, frizzy, dry hair or hair that is more prone to developing dandruff then olive oil is the natural oil for you.
Olive oil is known to coat the hair shafts and protect against heat damage. Its moisturizing effects maintain a healthy appearance of your hair.
Online reviews reveal that regular and appropriate use of olive oil adequately replaces the need for using hair conditioning products.
Massaging your hair with olive oil increases the blood flow to ensure rapid and healthy growth of hair follicles.
It also has high levels of antioxidants which promote the general health of your scalp.
4. Lemongrass oil
Lemongrass oil contains several vitamins and essential minerals that are necessary for healthy hair.
Besides strengthening your hair, it reduces hair loss and possesses impressive healing qualities which work well for the majority of conditions affecting the hair and the scalp.
Lemongrass oil is ideal for type of any hair. However, its benefits are particularly important for people who have dry scalp and are suffering from dandruff.
Studies have shown that lemongrass oil has both antifungal and antiviral effects hence the reason why it effectively treats dandruff.
5. Peppermint
People commonly use peppermint oil as a crucial ingredient in maintaining the beauty and care of their hair.
Notably, it has a pleasant fragrance which makes it a go-to ingredient in the manufacture of shampoos, and creams.
Peppermint oil is a potent remedy for your hair because it contains a substance called menthol, which is a vasodilator.
Vasodilation helps increase blood supply to the hair follicles thereby increasing the delivery of nutrients which in turn stimulates hair growth
Studies have revealed that deranged blood flow to the hair follicles is one of the major causes of both male and female pattern baldness. This effect can be controlled by peppermint.
Conclusion
Besides genetic factors, dandruff and other scalp infections are among the leading causes of hair loss. Natural oils have ingredients and chemicals that are effective against major infections of the scalp, which can cause hair loss. It is important to note that different hairs respond to different natural oils differently. You need to test a variety of natural oils before settling for the one that works for you.
Author:
Bonnke Arunga is senior medical student and an expert health writer, currently, the main contributor at Hairverse.com. He is passionate about all areas of health but has particular interest in dermatology and skin health, including treatment of hair loss. Bonnke holds Bachelors of Science and seeks for Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S.), from Maseno University.
