Long & Luscious: The Best Ways To Experience The Hair Benefits Of Flaxseed

Superfoods never cease to surprise us with their never-ending list of benefits, do they? Flaxseed is another one of those ‘good at everything’ superfood for us. It’s highly nutritious and good from a beauty aspect. Fun fact: Flaxseeds are one of the earliest crops cultivated by humans. They are packed with fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and Omega-3. People use them widely in salad dressings, smoothies and even as a snack during their weight loss diet. But did you know that these tiny-shiny brown seeds can bless your hair with growth and luster?  

What is flaxseed?

Flaxseeds have an interesting combination of essential macro and micronutrients. These golden-brown coloured seeds contain healthy fatty acids, fibre, antioxidants and so on. While it is highly nutritious, whole flaxseed isn’t readily absorbed by the body. Hence, it is used in ground form or the oil is extracted from it for cooking and flavouring.

How flaxseed helps hair health?

The nutrients present in flax seeds keep the hair nourished and scalp hydrated. When you apply a plant-based oil to your hair, it seals the cuticle and prevents frizz and hair breakage. The function of flaxseed oil is similar. 

• These seeds are a good source of B vitamins that help promote stronger and healthier hair at a rapid rate.

• They’re also rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are often found in fatty fishes. However, it’s present in a different form. The omega-3 present in plant-based foods also helps in heart health and reduces inflammation. It’s a great source of fatty acids for vegetarians.

• Much like other nuts and seeds, flaxseeds are also packed with vitamin E that reduces the effects of free radicals on the scalp by looking at the production of sebum.

Eating Flaxseed For Hair

Eating the food and allowing the body to internally experience its benefits is one of the best ways to use a superfood. If you want to eat flaxseeds instead of using an oil or mask, that’s brilliant!

• You can take a spoonful of flaxseeds directly.

• You can roast them without oil and then consume. It’ll make it easier to chew them. 

• You can make a powder of flax seeds and add it to your smoothie. 

• You can also make a paste and add it to the dishes like uthappam, dips, dosa and so on. 

• If none of this works for you, go ahead and take the pills. Yes, flaxseed softens are available in the market for medicinal purposes. 

 Flaxseed Hair Mask

Flaxseed hair masks are really easy to make and it gives you hair spa-like results. Even better if you follow a diet and beauty regimen that’s in benefit of your hair type. Make a paste of flaxseeds and add 2 tablespoons of it to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Warm it. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil and mix it well. Apply it on your hair and scalp. Leave it in for 1-2 hours. Wash it off with a mild shampoo. Say hello to soft and shiny hair!

Flaxseed Oil For Hair

As it’s rich in fatty acids, it comforts and nourishes the scalp and hair. Flaxseed oil is used in multiple forms such as on salads, in healthy food dishes and for the people who aren’t comfortable with the change of taste, they use it directly on hair for a massage or add it to their hair mask.

 How To Make Flaxseed Oil For Hair Growth?

While cold-pressed flaxseed oil is readily available in the market, you can always try making it at home. Just add a couple of cups of water to a pan and heat it high on the stove for about 5 minutes. Now, add 2 tablespoon of whole flaxseeds to it and lower the flame. Boil it for about 8-10 minutes. Once you see the liquid thickening, take it off the burner and let it cool for 20-30 minutes. You can transfer the oil into a jar and leave the seeds within as they become soft after boiling. However, if you want to remove them, strain the mixture. Store it in the refrigerator. The liquid stays fresh and good-to-use for about 10 days.  

Side Effects of Flaxseed

Despite so many benefits, flaxseeds may cause ill-effects if you go overboard, so make sure you consume them in moderation otherwise you may face the following issues.

• Low blood pressure.

• Increased risk of prostate cancer. 

• Abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, gas and constipation.

• Increased level of estrogen.

FAQs on Hair Benefits Of Flaxseed

Can flaxseed regrow hair?

Flaxseed gel can help you with that. A massage using the gel can stimulate the hair follicles in the scalp and improve blood circulation. This results in the regrowth of lost hair. It also deals with issues like dandruff, hair thinning and breakage.

Can you leave flaxseed gel in your hair?

Yes, unlike other gels, flaxseed gel is designed to stay in your hair for the entire day until you use your shampoo to rinse it off.

Well, now you know what to do!

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/flaxseed-for-hair#how-to-use
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4152533/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/flaxseed/faq-20058354a