Black seed oil for hair growth: Benefits and uses

Hair loss can be due to stress, hormonal changes, hairstyles, treatments, genes or medications. You can eat more protein, use products made with eggs, and reduce stress to promote hair growth. If you believe in home remedies, you can also go for black seed oil for hair growth. Black seed oil is oil collected from the seeds of Nigella sativa, a tiny flowering plant found in parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. It is not only used to make curries, but also in hair care products. It has nutrients that can support healthier hair growth. You can apply it directly or mix with other oils for hair growth. But before using black seed oil for hair growth, know all its benefits.

Black seed oil for hair growth

Black seed oil can improve shine, texture, and volume, and reduce hair loss problem, as per a study published in the Journal of Tropical Medicine in 2017. Here’s how black seed oil may help promote hair growth:

1. Provides nutrients for hair

Black seed oil contains essential fatty acids and vitamins such as vitamin E that are beneficial for overall hair health, says dermatologist Dr Akriti Gupta. These nutrients can nourish the scalp and hair follicles, potentially supporting healthier hair growth.

2. May reduce scalp inflammation

Scalp inflammation can lead to hair loss and come in the way of hair growth. Black seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties, primarily due to compounds like thymoquinone. By reducing scalp inflammation, it may create a more conducive environment for hair follicles to grow.

3. May have an antioxidant effect

Antioxidants present in black seed oil can help protect hair follicles from damage caused by oxidative stress. This protection may help maintain the health of hair follicles and promote hair growth, says the expert.

4. Antimicrobial activity

Black seed oil has been used in skincare and hair care products for its antimicrobial properties. It may help to maintain scalp health by combating microbes that could potentially inhibit hair growth or cause scalp conditions.

5. Moisturising and conditioning

Applying black seed oil topically can help moisturise and soften the hair and scalp. This can reduce dryness and flakiness of the scalp, which may contribute to healthier hair growth, says Dr Gupta.

How to use black seed oil for hair growth?

Here are simple ways to use black seed oil for hair growth:

1. Direct application

Slightly warm the black seed oil to make it easier to apply and help it penetrate the scalp better. Massage the oil directly into your scalp using your fingertips, focusing on areas where you are experiencing hair loss. Gently massage your scalp using the oil for about 5 to 10 minutes to stimulate blood circulation. Leave the oil on your scalp for at least 30 minutes then wash your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner.

2. Add to shampoo or conditioner

Add a few drops of black seed oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner. Use the hair care product as you normally would. Use black seed oil 2 to 3 times a week for the best results, and be consistent.

Mixing black seed oil with other natural ingredients

By combining black seed oil with these natural ingredients, you can create powerful treatments to promote hair growth and improve the overall health of your hair, says the expert. Here are some of the hair oil combinations you can try:

1. Black seed oil and coconut oil

Using black seed oil with coconut oil was found to be effective in promoting hair growth during a 2014 study published in the International Journal of Ethics in Engineering & Management Education. Mix equal parts of black seed oil and coconut oil then warm the mixture slightly and massage it into your scalp and hair. Leave it on your hair for about 30 minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo.

2. Black seed oil and castor oil

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which promotes hair growth and strengthens hair follicles, says the expert. After mixing equal parts of black seed oil and castor oil, apply it to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots. Then massage gently for a few minutes and leave it on for at least an hour and then rinse with a mild shampoo.

3. Black seed oil and olive oil

Olive oil is a great moisturiser and adds shine to hair. Combine equal parts of black seed oil and olive oil, massage the blend into your scalp and hair and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off.

Black seed oil may help with hair growth, but do a patch test before using it. If you are allergic to black seed oil, you may end up with skin rash, itching or redness.