Is Mustard Oil Good for Hair? Learn Its Top 7 Benefits

Is Mustard Oil Good For Hair?

Mustard oil is the perfect solution for those dealing with hair issues. The omega 3, omega 6 fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants increase benefits to multi-fold and make mustard oil good for hair.  Hair oil is not only nourishing, but also treats damaged and dull hair. 

One such hair oil is made out of Mustard or what Pakistani households refer to as sarson. You must have heard about an array of health benefits of mustard oil or as we call it sarson ka tael. It is massively used for cooking and is known for boosting immunity, keeping cold and flu away, and enhancing skin health. But did you know that mustard oil is equally beneficial for your hair? Those wanting high volume, shiny, and smooth hair have used mustard oil for ages as mustard oil benefits for hair are plenty. 

Regular application of mustard hair oil promotes hair growth, besides preventing dandruff and hair thinning. Here are the numerous mustard oil benefits for hair.

What Makes Mustard Oil So Good For Hair? 

Your hair needs protein and omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids in huge amounts to maintain its health and remain in the best condition. Mustard oil contains both of these in abundance and fulfills your hair’s nutritional needs. It is also a rich source of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins like A, D, E, and K which are crucial for hair growth.  

Mustard oil also possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties which help with scalp conditions such as dandruff and keeps infections at bay. Mustard oil ensures good scalp health, reduces hair fall, encourages growth, and renews hair shine. So jump on the bandwagon, use mustard oil for long and healthy tresses that fall so beautifully. Still trying to convince? Here is a list of 10 benefits of mustard oil for hair in detail. Take a read! 

 Also Read:   Which natural ingredient is best for Hair Care 

Here’s What Mustard Oil Can Prevent

Mustard oil has tremendous benefits for hair. Due to its exceptional healing properties, mustard oil prevents the following:

1. Hair Breakage and Frizziness

The benefits of mustard oil are multifold since it has the ideal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is fortified with vitamin E and antioxidants. For the hair, mustard oil serves as a sunscreen and prevents problems such as breakage and frizziness.

2. Split Ends

In addition to having a high erucic acid concentration, mustard oil also contains ALA, which aids in preventing split ends. The oil helps enhance the general appearance of the hair. Because of its high fatty acid content, mustard oil can also aid in smoothening split ends and make your hair look glossier.

3. Heat Damage

As mustard oil is very beneficial in supplying moisture to the hair, regular mustard oil therapy reduces heat damage caused by various styling procedures. Alpha fatty acids in mustard oil help retain moisture and give your hair a voluminous, bouncy appearance. It serves as a natural conditioner that imparts a healthy sheen and hydrates hair from root to tip.

4. Water Damage

Mustard oil assists in resolving damage to the hair caused by hard water. When you apply mustard oil and wash it off, it strips the hair off the hard water deposits by dissolving the contaminants and leaves it healthy.

5. Prevents Hair Fall Problems Due to Inflammation

Numerous health conditions are caused by inflammation, leading to a variety of symptoms, including hair and scalp issues. Mustard oil is used to treat these problems and  reduce inflammation.

6. Protects Against Fungal Infections on the Scalp

Mustard oil has allyl isothiocyanate in abundance, which shows potent antifungal activity. Therefore, it may prevent the development of fungi anywhere on the body. Additionally, you can use this mustard oil to kill the fungus and eliminate the infection if you already have a fungal infection.

7. Eliminates Dandruff

Applying mustard oil to your hair keeps it hydrated and prevents dandruff. The scalp typically dries out due to excessive washing since the natural oils are stripped off with harsh shampoos. Restoring the balance using mustard oil is possible. Mustard oil can aid in treating dandruff if you already have it. This oil’s antimicrobial properties attack the microorganisms that repeatedly cause dandruff. Minerals and antioxidants in this oil promote healthy hair and help prevent dandruff.

Research on Mustard Oil

Mustard oil constitutes many different acids, including linoleic acid which have advantageous characteristics. In terms of properties, mustard oil is very different from other seed oils.

The extraction procedure, chemical makeup, and therapeutic qualities are unique to mustard oil. The seeds of the mustard plant, scientifically known as Brassica Nigra (Black Mustard) or Brassica Hirta (White Mustard), are the source of these oils. Mustard oil is extracted using low pressure and temperature (40-600). It has 0.30–0.35% Alyssa-Thiocyanate essential oil, which is an excellent moisturizing, sun protection, and anti-inflammatory agent and an overall hair health booster.

There are some research studies on the medicinal properties of mustard oil. Most of the research is on general health effects and not on mustard oil effects on the hair. However, many of the qualities that make mustard oil beneficial for body health also make it good for the scalp and hair. Mustard oil is high in fats including omega-3 fatty acids. This may help it reduce inflammation on your skin and scalp. Using mustard oil as a scalp treatment may help protect or improve hair root health for stronger, thicker hair.

A 2016 study on mice found that mustard oil helped to block some pain receptors in the body. This means that it may help to relieve muscle aches and other kinds of pain in the body. More research is needed to find out if mustard oil has the same pain-relieving effect on people. Another 2016 study that tested mustard oil in a lab showed that it has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This means that it may help stop germs from growing and prevent skin, scalp, and body infections.

Mustard Oil Benefits for Hair

Regular application of mustard oil leads to various benefits for the hair that are described below.

1. Promotes Hair Growth

Enriched with a multitude of vitamins such as vitamins E, K and A, mustard oil promotes hair growth. A good source of iron, magnesium, antioxidants and calcium, besides zinc beta-carotene, mustard or sarso oil for hair also helps address the concern of untimely grey hair.

2. Nourishes Hair

Many people around the world suffer from hair thinning and hair loss. It happens commonly when the hair follicles are poorly nourished and damaged. If you want to naturally nourish your hair and prevent hair loss and damage, then regularly massage the hair follicles with mustard oil. It not only nourishes the hair but also strengthens it.

Damaged hair follicles lead to hair thinning and hair loss. Regularly massaging hair follicles with mustard oil helps restore the hair’s shine and strength as it contains a host of vitamins, fatty acids and minerals.

3. Works as Natural Conditioner

A natural stimulant, mustard oil acts as a natural conditioner by infusing freshness in your hair besides making it shiny, smooth, silky and bouncy.

Mustard oil is rich in alpha fatty acids which can maintain the moisture of hair and keep it bouncy and fresh. It acts as a natural conditioner, making the hair smooth, soft, supple, and silky. Moreover, it is also packed with natural fats which also makes it an excellent conditioner for hair.

100 grams of mustard oil has:

• Monounsaturated fats = 59 grams
• Polyunsaturated fats = 21 grams
• Saturated fats = 12 grams

You can make a mustard oil hair mask and apply it before washing your hair to add natural moisture to the hair. The natural fats coat and seal every hair strand.

4. Increases Blood Circulation

Hair experts say that the main reason for hair thinning and hair loss is the nourishment of the hair roots. Mustard oil for hair growth helps rejuvenate the hair by boosting blood circulation with regular massaging. Therefore, you should massage your scalp regularly with mustard oil to regain hair life. Moreover, sarson ka tail is a natural stimulant. When the scalp is massaged with the sarson ka tail, it stimulates the circulatory system to improve blood circulation.

5. Has Antifungal Properties

Mustard oil for hair contains ALA( alpha-linolenic acid-potential health benefits) and high uric acid content, which help cleanse the scalp and eliminate fungi and bacteria that accumulate upon the scalp and block hair follicles. 

Scalp infection can damage overall hair health and cause flakiness, itchiness, and irritation. Mustard oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties which make it an effective home remedy for overcoming these scalp issues.

6. Prevents Hair Dryness

Mustard oil for hair growth minimizes hydration fatigue of the hair as it contains fatty acids and helps in reducing drying or swelling of hair. It helps replenish lipids lost due to pollution, hair styling and different chemical treatments. Replenished lipids in the hair make the hair appear glossy and healthy.

7. Improves Overall Hair Appearance

Sarso oil for hair protects it from day-to-day damage due to its fatty acid content. It protects the hair follicles from different kinds of surfactants by filling the gaps between cuticle cells. It thereby makes hair shinier while smoothening split ends.

Additional Benefits for Mustard Oil:

1. Reduces Scalp Inflammation

Mustard oil contains antioxidants and omega fatty acids loaded with essential nutrients that act as anti-inflammatories. Mustard oil also contains selenium equipped with anti-inflammatory properties. The mineral not only reduces swelling and pain but also protects the hair from various kinds of hair and scalp infections.

2. Tackles Scalp Conditions

Mustard oil is equipped with soothing properties. Besides containing a blend of various types of omega fatty acids, it contains a multitude of vitamins and minerals. It thereby provides long-lasting results in tackling a range of hair concerns besides treating certain scalp skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

3. Prevents Hair Thinning

These days, many people are struggling with hair thinning due to various reasons. These include stress, the lack of a proper hair care routine, and environmental aggressors. Mustard oil for hair helps tackle hair thinning by providing deep nourishment. When hair receives the required nourishment, the outcome is strong hair follicles.

4. Improves Scalp Circulation

Regular application of mustard oil to the hair roots helps restore hair shine as it boosts the circulation of blood by stimulating the circulatory system naturally.

5. Mustard Oil for Dandruff

Mustard oil contains antioxidants, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties and helps get rid of dandruff naturally without any side effects.

Mix 2 tbsps of mustard oil with 2 tbsps of aloe vera gel. Apply this nourishing hair pack to the length of your hair and scalp. Leave this hair pack on for 20-30 minutes. Wash it off with tap water. The hair pack will not only prevent dandruff but also nourish your hair.

6. Mustard Oil for Grey Hair

One of the major causes of graying of hair is the reduction of melanin production. Mustard oil can help address the problem by reversing the graying of hair. Regular massaging of hair with mustard oil increases melanin production.

Crushed fenugreek seeds and dried curry leaves can be added to mustard oil for the best results in reversing hair graying. This combination, loaded with essential minerals and vitamins, will not only help prevent premature graying but also help restore the original hair color.

7. Mustard Oil for Hair Fall

Mustard oil, when blended with amla and aloe vera that are full of nutrients, does wonder in addressing hair fall concerns. Amla strengthens the hair roots, reduces hair fall and enhances the hair growth rate. Aloe vera, on the other hand, provides deep moisturization to the hair and scalp.

Mix 2 amlas with 4 to 5 tbsps of Aloe Vera pulp. Both ingredients, when blended with mustard oil, lead to the development of powerful antioxidant properties. This decreases the harmful effects of free radicals, reducing hair fall.

How to Use Mustard Oil for Hair Growth

Mustard oil can be used in multiple ways.

Mustard oil as a pre-shampoo treatment

Massage a small quantity of mustard oil on your scalp for about five minutes before shampooing.

Mustard oil mask for hair growth

Mix one spoon of mustard oil and two spoons of fresh Aloe Vera. Apply this mask on hair and scalp from roots to ends. Massage well with fingers, wash with shampoo after an hour.

Make a mustard oil hair mask

Prepare a mixture of oils one tablespoon each; Mustard oil, Almond oil, Jojoba oil. Apply this oil mask to your hair and scalp thoroughly. Leave on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing with shampoo.

Mustard Oil And Banana Pack

Take two ripe bananas and mustard oil. Blend these well to make a thick paste. Add one spoon of yogurt for better consistency. Applying it on your scalp to prevent dry, frizzy and brittle hair.

Mustard Oil And Yoghurt Pack

Take 5-6 spoonful’s of yogurt and one spoon of mustard oil in a bowl mix it well. Apply this pack to your scalp. Wash your hair after 40-60 minutes.

Pro Tips on Mustard Oil Uses      

• Soak a towel in warm water and wrap it around your hair after applying the pack.
• Wash your hair before stepping out as oil attracts dust and dirt.
• Use the right amount of oil to prevent mustard oil side effects. If your hair type is normal or fine, use not more than two spoons.
• Apply a mustard oil hair mask once a week or twice a week for best results.

Mustard Oil Vs Olive Oil

• Mustard oil is economical as compared to olive oil.
• Both are rich in nutrients:

• Vitamin A: Prevents aging.
• Vitamin E: Helps with the circulation of the scalp and has antioxidant powers.
• Fatty acids: Promotes hydration of the scalp.

Mustard Oil Vs Coconut Oil For Hair

Coconut oil is lighter than mustard oil; it prevents the loss of protein, thereby strengthening hair strands; It mostly suits normal hair. So coconut oil can be used regularly, while Mustard oil should be used for damaged hair from time to time. Mustard oil can be used in deep conditioning hair masks due to its warming qualities.

Hair Type Considerations

Widely speaking, mustard oil is a wonderful ingredient for hair and scalp health. However, this oil has some properties that can work as an irritant for certain skin, scalp, and hair types.

People with very sensitive and oily scalps should limit the use of mustard oil to once or twice a month. Another alternative would be to use it in small quantities by diluting it on another milder oil base, such as coconut oil.

Since mustard oil is thick, it may take several rounds of washing to rinse it off. If your hair is damaged, brittle, and chemically treated, you should avoid using mustard oil. Besides these considerations, mustard oil is safe and works wonders for most hair types.

Mustard Oil or Hair Side Effects  

External application of mustard oil for hair hardly has any side effects. However, naturally occurring compounds like allyl thiocyanate, erucic acid, and capsaicin may cause mild irritation to the scalp in sensitive people.

In rare cases, it might clog root inlets, eye irritation. Hence, Do a patch test and check for allergic reactions like allergic rashes, itching, swelling, etc.

Precautions to Take While Using Mustard Oil for Hair

Our hair and scalp indeed receive hydration from mustard oil. Additionally, it also lessens irritation or inflammation on the scalp. However, before using mustard oil as a hair or scalp treatment, do a patch test similar to what you would with any other natural oil before using it for the first time.

Mustard oil can attract a lot of dust and dirt, and therefore you should not leave it for too long. Mustard oil should not be applied more than thrice weekly to reap all the benefits. One should avoid using this oil daily. Moreover, a proper amount of oil should be used. If you have dry or damaged hair, use 4–5 spoons; if you have normal or fine hair, you should use no more than 2 tablespoons.

If you experience hair thinning or loss, consult your physician. You should also see your doctor if you develop a scalp rash or irritation like eczema or psoriasis. This can be a sign of a more serious health problem. If you need medical attention, mustard oil and other hair treatments cannot be effective on your hair or scalp.

Summing Up…Is Mustard Oil Good For Hair & Hair Growth

Mustard oil is an excellent remedy that prevents premature hair graying, prevents hair fall and facilitates hair growth when applied directly to your head. This process has little to no side effects. However, in rare cases, mustard oil may cause rashes and irritation on the skin. So be careful and conduct a patch test before usage.

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