Amla for hair is an effective medicine used traditionally and is believed to promote hair and scalp health. It is backed by some scientific studies and is known to prevent hair loss.
Derived from the Indian Gooseberry, better known as the Amla tree, Amla oil is known to promote hair growth. Amla oil is acclaimed for its hair growth stimulation properties. As per a study, it also slows down hair loss and enhances hair health. The oil is obtained from the fresh Amla fruit itself.
What is Amla Oil?
Amla oil is a traditional hair tonic and hair health-restoring agent. It enables hair growth and is obtained from the Indian Gooseberry or Amalaki tree, which is native to India. Also, the Amla oil for hair is believed to have an anti-greying property. It is also a major constituent of hair care and beauty products.
How is Amla Oil Made?
The procedure to make Amla oil involves soaking the dried Amla fruit in mineral or coconut oil. It can also be made by powdering the Amla fruit. The Amla fruit is full of nutrients, and when soaked, the oil comprising the nutrients is released. The mixture is then purified and filtered properly for oil extraction and collection purposes. There are several recipes to make Amla oil at home.
1. Amla Oil from Amla Fruit or Juice
To make Amla oil from fresh or dried Amla fruits or their juice, follow these steps:
- Blend or chop the amla fruit into smaller pieces and extract the juice.
- Take one tablespoon of oil - virgin oil, coconut oil, sesame, or olive oil - and mix it thoroughly with the powder form of the amla fruit. The mixture should look uniform.
- In the case of solid oil, heat the mixture slightly until it melts down.
- Once the mixture gets slightly warm, apply it to the scalp for around two hours and rinse off. You may also leave it overnight.
2. Amla Oil from Amla Powder
- Take oil and amla powder in a pan in the proportion of 1:5 tablespoons.
- Heat the mixture on the lowest flame. Do so until there is a slightly pleasant smell with little bubbling.
- Now cook slowly for 2 to 3 minutes. Note that the mixture should not boil.
- Turn the heat source off and cover the pan. Let this mixture seep in for at least 24 hours.
- Now filter and strain the mixture through a cloth into a bottle.
- Apply for as long as needed on the scalp before the next hair wash.
Note that the use of glass bottles or jars is advised for better benefits. Store in a dark and cool place.
Does Amla Oil for Hair Work?
Amla for hair oil is believed to have many hair health benefits for stimulating growth. As per a study, Amla hair oil is also known to kill parasites such as lice found in hair.
Some of the nutrients present in amla oil are:
- Amino acids (alanine, lysine, proline, aspartic acid, glutamic acid)
- Proteins
- Carbohydrates
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Carotene
- Alkaloids
- Gallotannins
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Pectin
- Polyphenols
Amla oil also has the effective antioxidant DDA-5512, which has some well-established hair health benefits.
Benefits of Amla for Hair
The use of amla for hair is a traditional medicine that is known to improve hair and scalp health. Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and other nutrients associated with hair growth benefits, Amla oil also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help prevent dandruff and itching of the scalp. It also aids in sebum regulation by curbing oil production. Several more associated benefits of amla for hair health are listed below.
1. Provides Hair Strength
Amla oil is found to have essential nutrients such as phytonutrients, vitamins, pectins, and many more minerals that provide the necessary stimulation for hair growth. Studies suggest that phytonutrients enable hair growth and aid in the prevention of hair loss. It is recommended to include Amla oil in daily routine for strong, healthy, and resilient hair growth.
2. Dandruff Prevention and Antiseptic property
As per a study, Amla oil has antibacterial properties which help kill parasites such as hair lice. It helps to prevent itching and dandruff on the scalp.
3. Moisturizes Dry Hair
Amla oil and juice are quite hydrating in nature and help provide the necessary moisture to hair and scalp. It helps nourish the dry and brittle strands of hair, aiding hair growth.
4. Prevents Hair loss
Some studies show evidence that the phytonutrients present in amla are known to prevent hair loss. It also contains antioxidants that aid in protecting the hair cuticle against external factors of the environment.
5. Amla Oil for Grey Hair
The mixture of coconut oil and amla is known for its anti-greying properties. Coconut oil is a natural hair conditioner and protects hair from damage such as split ends and frizz. When combined with amla, the oil helps to enhance the overall hair health. To make this Amla oil for grey hair, follow these steps:
- Take a cup of fresh Amla juice and dried Amla seeds.
- Measure 3 cups of coconut oil and take it in a pan.
- Start heating the pan at the lowest flame and mix the Amla content. Let it infuse properly for 3 hours.
- Before applying to the scalp, warm this mixture slightly, let it stay for 2 to 3 hours, and rinse off.
This mixture of Amla oil for hair helps prevent hair’s premature greying.
How to Use Amla Oil for Hair Growth?
For boosting hair growth and overall hair health, the topical applications of amla for hair must be preferred. Listed below are some of the ways that you can use amla oil.
1. Apply Oil to the Scalp
Amla oil is used in combination with other oils such as coconut, sesame, etc., applied on the scalp. It is an excellent hair conditioner and promotes hair growth.
2. Use as a Pre-hair Wash Detangler
On hair wash days, apply the oil to the hair to make the best of its moisturizing property. Let it stay till it detangles the hair completely before washing it off. If you don’t have time to let the oil stay for long until it activates, warm the oil slightly before use. Wash the hair after proper detangling of the hair.
3. Create a Mask
Use the mixture of amla powder and water or coconut oil mixture to create a paste and apply it to the scalp. Massage well, so it reaches the roots of the hair. It promotes hair health and prevents itching.
What to Know Before Using Amla Oil on Your Hair?
As per research, scientists have concluded that there are no major side effects of Amla oil application on hair. It promotes hair growth and scalp health without any significant safety concerns. So, it is safe to use as a homemade oil or as available in hair products.
Does Amla Oil Work for All Hair Types?
Yes, Amla oil is known to be suitable for all hair types. Further, the oil is especially useful for those who have dry hair or scalp, brittle hair or split ends, and other similar conditions. The hydrating characteristic of Amla oil is known to regulate the production of sebum on the scalp. Antioxidants and vitamins found in amla are also essential in promoting hair and scalp health.
Side Effects of Amla on Hair
There are no notable side effects of amla on hair or the scalp. However, to be sure, a small patch test is recommended on the backside of the head. It will ensure that there is no issue of irritation on sensitive skin or due to some allergy.
Summing Up on Amla Oil for Hair
The use of Amla oil for hair health and scalp nourishment has been a traditional remedy. Further, studies are also available that suggest the same. It is also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Applying the oil before hair wash could help detangle the hair and make it easier to wash. The oil is useful for the prevention of hair loss and is an effective constituent of many hair care products. Conducting a small patch test for your safety before using the Amla oil for hair growth stimulation is recommended.
FAQs
Can Amla Regrow Hair?
The 5-alpha reductase present in Amla oil helps in the prevention of hair loss and promotes hair growth. It nourishes the hair scalp and thereby promotes the growth of hair.
Is Amla Oil Good for Hair?
Yes, Amla Oil is good for hair and scalp health as it contains the antioxidant DDA-5512, which helps strengthen the hair and prevent hair loss.
How Long Should You Keep Amla Oil in Your Hair?
Apply Amla oil before washing the hair and keep it for as long as overnight or a few hours, depending on your next hair wash schedule. It helps condition and nourishes the scalp.
Can I Put Amla Oil on My Face?
Yes, Amla oil applied on the face helps to soak away any excess oil on the skin. After applying, allow it to stay for 5 to 10 minutes for visible effect.
References
G Daniels, Can plant-derived phytochemicals provide symptom relief for hair loss? A critical review - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31240739/
Jae Young Yu, April 2017; Preclinical and Clinical Studies Demonstrate That the Proprietary Herbal Extract DA-5512 Effectively Stimulates Hair Growth and Promotes Hair Health - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5429933/
