Hair is traditionally considered to be one of the most important elements of appearance and a healthy appearance is a maintain topic in the minds of most. Although the market is saturated with commercial hair care products, those which aim at instant result, there has been increasing attention on natural products, owing to their efficacy and low side effects. Onion is a remedy among other things for hair growth. The onion is well known for its high sulfur content and its antibacterial properties and has been a traditional remedy of inducing hair growth, up-regulation of hair fall and maintaining healthy scalp.
Onion for Hair Growth: An Effective Natural Remedy
Why Onion is Beneficial for Hair Growth
Rich in Sulfur
Onions are a good source of sulphur, an important inorganic component for keratin production, the main protein component of hair fibres. Sulfur is used to strengthen hair follicles, to prevent breakage, and to induce hair regrowth by enhancing blood flow to the scalp.
Antibacterial Properties
Scalp infections may cause hair loss and are also associated with slowing growth. Onion juice has inherent antibacterial and antifungal activities that have a role in the inhibition of infections, thereby keeping the scalp clean and healthy.
Improves Blood Circulation
When applied to the scalp, onion juice stimulates blood circulation, ensuring that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen for growth.
Antioxidant Effects
In onions, there is quercetin, an antioxidant, which helps to counteract free radicals which are capable of affecting the hair follicles and causing anagen effluvium (alopecia). This property effects the prevention of early greying and the reinforcement of the roots.
Balances Scalp pH
The alkaline property of onion juice neutralises the pH of the scalp, the presence of which decreases dandruff and provides an ideal condition for hair growth.
How to Use Onion for Hair Growth
If you’re intrigued by the potential benefits of onion for hair, there are several effective ways to incorporate it into your hair care routine:.
Onion Juice
Ingredients: 1-2 medium-sized onions.
Method:
- Peel and chop the onions into small pieces.
- Mix them into a paste and squeeze out the juice through a strainer or cheesecloth.
- Apply the juice directly to the scalp using cotton ball or fingertips.
- And massage for 5-10 min and leave it on for ~30 min.
- Wash out with mild shampoo to destruct the strong odour.
- Frequency: Use 2-3 times a week for visible results.
Onion and Coconut Oil
Ingredients: Onion juice and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
Method:
- Mix onion juice with coconut oil.
- Warm up the mixture moderately and spread it onto the scalp.
- Massage gently and leave it on for 1-2 hours.
- Rinse with shampoo.
- Benefits: Coconut oil increases moisturizing attributes and helps prevent dryness.
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Onion and Honey Mask
Ingredients: 2 tsp onion juice to 1 tsp honey.
Method:
- Mix the ingredients to form a smooth paste.
- Apply it evenly on the scalp and hair.
- Leave it to sit for 30 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
- Benefits: Honey nourishes the hair and scalp while adding shine.
Onion and Aloe Vera
Ingredients: Onion juice and 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel.
Method:
- Combine the onion juice with aloe vera gel.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing.
- Benefits: Aloe vera soothes the scalp and reduces irritation.
Tips for Using Onion on Hair
- Never apply onion juice to your scalp without first performing a patch test to avoid potential allergic reactions.
- To reduce the powerful onion odour, it is possible to add few drops of oils like lavender, tea tree or peppermint.
- Use freshly extracted onion juice for maximum effectiveness.
- Do not apply onion juice to open wounds and scalps that are hypersensitive, as it can damage the area.
- Addressing Common Concerns
- Will Onion Juice Smell Linger?
- Onions smell can be strong, but rinsing with some vinegar diluted solution, of a perfumed shampoo, may remove it.
Is It Safe for All Hair Types?
Onion juice is usually not dangerous for any hair type, but people with particularly sensitive skin or some conditions, such as eczema, are advised to inform a dermatologist before use.
How Long Before Results Show?
Consistency is key. It is common for most of the people to feel the change in hair texture and less hair compared with the before use in 4-6 weeks.
Scientific Backing
Numerous studies have demonstrated the usefulness of onion juice towards hair regrowth. A 2002 study published in the Journal of Dermatology found that participants who applied onion juice to their scalps twice daily experienced significant hair regrowth compared to those who used a placebo. In this study, the conventional use of onion as a hair loss treatment is confirmed.
