When you think of natural remedies for hair health, you would be excused if you didn’t include mustard oil on that list. Truth be told, among the first ingredients, people often think of coconut oil, olive oil, honey, castor oil, and so on. But using mustard oil for hair does help with hair fall, split ends, and baldness.
Castor oil might be the most commonly known and popular choice for hair growth, but mustard oil helps as well.
Mustard oil for hair has been a treatment since ancient times. Nowadays, people are finally catching up on this magical ingredient. Here is how the oil helps.
Chapter Overview
What are the ingredients in mustard oil?
When compared to other natural oils, mustard oil has an edge thanks to the optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. In the same time, the oil has a low content of saturated fats.
One tablespoon of mustard oils contains 14g of fat, 8.3 of which are monounsaturated fats, and 2.9g is polyunsaturated fats.
Mustard oil contains ingredients that have antimicrobial properties, as well as antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and fiber.
Benefits of mustard oil for hair
Now that we know the ingredients in mustard oil, what are the benefits of using it on your hair?
Let’s break down the benefits of mustard oil.
- Full of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, mustard oil provides proper nourishment of your hair. Among the minerals and vitamins, you will find vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin K, zinc, selenium, and beta-carotene in a single tablespoon of mustard oil. Vitamin A and beta-carotene directly help in hair growth
- Because of the essential alpha fatty acids, mustard oil is an ideal conditioner for your hair. It can hydrate the hair and promote faster hair growth and hair thickness
- You can use mustard oil to massage your scalp to boost blood circulation and help hair growth
- Because of the antifungal and antibacterial properties, mustard oil can prevent hair loss and ensure you get healthy hair growth
- Packed with vitamins and minerals, mustard oil also prevents premature graying of your hair. Use on a regular basis to keep your hair shiny, colorful, and voluminous
- Help you get rid of dandruff and itchy scalp thanks to the antifungal and antibacterial properties
How to Use Mustard Oil for Hair
Using mustard oil for hair is very simple. Now that we know the wonders of this ingredient, we can start using it on a regular basis.
Here is a step by step guide for using mustard oil.
- Start by heating a small amount of mustard oil on low heat
- Part your hair in the middle. Apply the mustard oil starting from the roots and going all the way t the tips
- Gently massage the oil into the scalp. Massage the oil for as long as you wish
- Leave the oil to stay on your hair for a couple of hours. You can even leave it overnight for some extra conditioning
- Make sure to wear a shower cap or tie your hair in a turban before you go to sleep. After all, you want to prevent pillow stains
- In the morning, or after several hours, wash the mustard oil thoroughly with a hair-nourishing shampoo
- Repeat the process two times per week for maximum results
As you can see, mustard oil on its own is good enough to help condition your hair, support hair growth, and provide nourishment. However, if you want specific treatment, you can combine mustard oil with other ingredients.
For example, if you want to prevent premature graying, mix mustard oil and olive oil, and then apply the mixture to your hair before going to bed. Leave it for 30 minutes, and then wash off
To get rid of dandruff, and similar hair infections, mix equal amounts of mustard oil and coconut oil. Massage the mixture into your hair, and then cover with a towel. Leave it for two hours, and then rinse with a mild shampoo. Repeat a few times per week.
For girls with long hair, a turban massage is the best thing you can do to make sure your hair looks healthy and shiny. Massage the oil into your hair until the oil is absorbed completely. Do not wash afterward. Start from the roots and continue up to the tips
Things to Consider
When using mustard oil for hair, there are a few precautions you have to take. While mustard oil is a perfect choice for hair therapy, there are a few things you have to keep in mind. Proper use will ensure healthy hair, while improper use can cause even more problems.
- Make sure to wash your hair before stepping out, and do not leave oil staying in your hair
- Do not apply mustard oil on a daily basis. While it is tempting to get the benefits, you cause more harm than good. Once per week is more than enough to stimulate hair growth and provide nourishment and hydration for your hair
- Check the amount of oil you use, the quantity depends on the texture of your hair. For damaged hair, you can use more mustard oil, and let it sit for three to four hours to penetrate deeply into the hair follicles
How to select and store mustard oil
There are different types of mustard oil on the market. You need to select the best one for your needs. Let’s break down the different types.
Kachi Ghani is the most popular form of mustard oil. Extracted through the cold-pressed method, it is full of antioxidants, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This oil is also natural in flavor.
Agmark is a certificate added to mustard oil and other products that are of organic integrity.
Grade 1 mustard oil is a mixture of oils that are obtained through grinding yellow and brown mustard seeds. It might have a bit of a nutty flavor. And it does not contain as many nutrients as Kachi Ghani mustard oil.
In terms of storage, mustard oil can be stored for up to six months after opening its seal. Keep that in mind when buying mustard oil. Always go for a quantity that you can use within six months period. After that, you are better off throwing away the oil. Store the oil in an airtight bottle in your fridge. If the oil turns rancid, do not use it anymore.