Can moringa oil boost hair growth? Know its 5 benefits for your hair and scalp health

Moringa oil, derived from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree, is gaining popularity in the beauty and wellness industries. This golden oil is rich in important vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants, making it a valuable natural remedy for hair care. It offers numerous benefits, not only addressing common hair problems but also demonstrating how to incorporate this nourishing oil into your hair care routine easily. Whether you want to add shine, encourage growth, or strengthen your hair, moringa oil is an effective option that can transform your hair care routine.

What is moringa oil?

Moringa oil is extracted from the seeds of the moringa tree, which is commonly known as the miracle tree, drumstick tree, or horse radish tree. This oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, making it beneficial for both health and aesthetics. Traditionally, people in the Indian subcontinent have utilised it for its healing properties. The moringa tree is found in various regions, including the sub-Himalayas, sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean islands, as indicated by a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Can moringa oil grow hair?

Moringa oil may not directly stimulate hair growth, but it can support a healthy scalp and promote overall hair health. The oil is rich in important nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, which are known to promote healthy hair. “It also contains amino acids and antioxidants that can improve scalp circulation and strengthen hair strands. By providing a nourishing environment for hair follicles, can contribute to improved hair growth over time,” Ayurveda expert Dimple Jangda tells Health Shots.

How long can you leave moringa oil in your hair?

For optimal benefits, you can leave moringa oil in your hair for a period ranging from 30 minutes to overnight. If you’re using it as a pre-shampoo treatment, 30 minutes to 1 hour is sufficient. “However, if you prefer a more intense treatment, applying before bed and rinsing it out in the morning can provide deep nourishment to your hair and scalp”, suggests Jangda.

Moringa oil benefits for hair growth

Moringa oil offers several benefits that may promote hair growth:

• Nourishment: The vitamins and minerals nourish hair follicles, promoting healthier hair.
• Strengthening: “The antioxidants can help strengthen hair shafts, reducing breakage”, explains an Ayurveda expert.
• Moisture retention: With its emollient properties, it helps retain moisture in hair, preventing dryness.
• Scalp health: Anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the scalp, fostering a healthy environment for hair growth.

How to use moringa oil for hair growth?

Using moringa oil for hair growth is simple:

1. Pre-treatment: Apply it directly to your scalp and hair, massaging gently to enhance circulation.
2. Leave-in treatment: “Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deep nourishment”, says Dimple Jangda.
3. Rinse: Wash it out with your regular shampoo and follow with conditioner.

For optimal results, consider incorporating it into your weekly hair care routine.

What are the side effects of moringa oil for hair?

Moringa oil is generally safe for most people when used topically. However, some possible side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions: If you’re allergic to moringa or similar plants, conduct a patch test before applying the product completely.
• Oily residue: Depending on your hair type, using too much oil can make your hair appear greasy.

If you experience any irritation or adverse effects, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Can I leave moringa oil in my hair overnight?

Using moringa oil overnight can provide significant benefits:

• Deep conditioning: The oil penetrates the hair and scalp overnight, providing intensive moisturization.
• Reduced frizz: “Overnight applications can help smooth out frizz, resulting in sleeker hair in the morning”, aesthetic physician and cosmetologist Dr Karuna Malhotra tells Healthshots.
• Enhanced growth: Consistent overnight use can promote stronger and healthier hair growth over time.

Is moringa oil good for skin and hair?

Combining moringa oil in both your hair and skincare routines can yield significant benefits. For hair, it promotes growth, strength, and shine, while for the skin, it moisturises, soothes, and provides protection, as per Harvard Health. This dual-use product not only optimises your beauty regimen but also simplifies your product list.

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Is moringa oil good for dandruff?

Moringa oil can be beneficial for those struggling with dandruff:

• Scalp health: Its antibacterial and antifungal properties can help maintain a clean, healthy scalp.
• Moisture: “The oil helps combat dryness, a common contributing factor to dandruff”, reveals an aesthetic physician.
• Soothing: It can reduce irritation and inflammation, providing relief from itchy scalps.
  

  Does moringa oil darken the hair?

  Moringa oil does not inherently darken hair. However, its conditioning properties can enhance the natural lustre and shine of your hair, giving it a healthier appearance. “Some users report that the rich nutrients make their hair look more vibrant, but individual results may vary based on hair type and condition”, shares the expert.

  Is moringa oil better than coconut oil for hair?

  Both oils have unique benefits for hair. Moringa oil contains a higher concentration of specific vitamins and antioxidants, whereas coconut oil is recognised for its deep conditioning properties and ability to penetrate hair strands effectively.

  Moringa oil is rich in vitamins A, C, and E. It contains antioxidants that promote scalp health.

  Coconut oil has strong moisturising properties and helps prevent protein loss in hair.

  Ultimately, the choice between moringa oil and coconut oil may depend on your hair type and specific needs. Some people find that combining both oils works wonders for their locks!

  Moringa oil benefits for skin

In addition to its benefits for hair, moringa oil also excels in skin care:

• Moisturising: Rich in fatty acids, it hydrates and nourishes the skin.
• Anti-inflammatory: Its properties can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.
• Antioxidant protection: Helps combat signs of ageing and protects against environmental stressors, as reported in Frontiers in Pharmacology.