How To Use Flax Seeds For Hair Growth

The seeds are replete with powerful nutrients that promote hair health and growth.

Medically Reviewed by Vd. Naveen Sharma, BAMS
July 29, 2022 By Arshiya Syeda

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. Read on to know more.

In This Article

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 (2). Vitamin E can also help prevent premature graying due to oxidative stress (3).

2. Rich In B Vitamins

Deficiency in B vitamins (riboflavin, folate, biotin, and vitamin B12) is associated with hair loss (4). 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 (5).

4. Replete With Protein

Protein is essential for hair growth. Flax seeds are a vegan/vegetarian and gluten-free source of protein (6). 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 pH 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.

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 help in hair growth. But how can you use them 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

Heat the flax seed oil in a bowl for a few seconds until it is slightly warm.
Massage this oil onto your scalp for about 15 minutes.
Apply it to your hair lengths.
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.
Wait for 30 minutes.
Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
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. This 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

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

How This Helps

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

These are the two ways you can use flax seeds for hair growth. However, consuming flax seeds is more effective in aiding hair growth. Here are the various ways to add flax seeds to your diet for better hair quality.

How To Include Flax Seeds In Your Diet For Hair Growth

1. Eat Raw Flax Seeds

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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

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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.

3. Flax Seeds And Yogurt

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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.

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 estrogen 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.

Flaxseeds are rich in vitamins B, E, and omega 3 fatty acids. Incorporating flaxseeds into your hair care routine can help improve your hair health and reduce hair loss. Using flaxseeds for hair may help prevent hair damage, improve scalp health, strengthen your hair, condition the hair, and balance the pH levels. You may use flaxseeds for hair growth as an oil or hair gel. Including it in your diet may also help you reap maximum benefits. Discontinue the use if you experience any side effects.

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.

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.

Key Takeaways

Flaxseeds are rich in vitamins E and B, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.
They help soothe the scalp and maintain its pH and oil balance while conditioning and moisturizing the hair strands.
Including flax seeds in your diet, along with the usage of flaxseed oil and gel, can help nourish and strengthen your hair from within.

Sources

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