Healthy, luscious locks are just a dream for many of us. Between pollution, styling damage, and harsh products, it's easy for our hair to lose its shine and strength. But what if there was a natural solution that could help? Moringa oil might be the answer. It is known as the ‘miracle tree’ oil, and is packed with nutrients that can make your hair stronger, shinier, and less prone to damage.
What is Moringa Oil?
Moringa oil is extracted from Moringa oleifera seeds, a native tree of some parts of Africa and Asia. Popularly referred to as "ben oil," it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids and is a popular choice for use in skin and hair care. What makes moringa oil unique is its rich concentration of oleic acid, vitamin E, and essential minerals, all of which are major contributors to scalp and hair health.
In contrast to heavy oils, moringa oil is light and non-greasy, and therefore does not weigh your hair down. It is thus ideal for most hair types, such as fine or oily hair.
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Why is Moringa Oil Good for Hair?
Rich in Nutrients
Moringa oil is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and omega fatty acids. They nourish hair strands, increase elasticity, and reduce breakage.
Potent Antioxidants
Free radicals can damage your scalp and hair follicles, leading to hair loss and premature greying. The antioxidants in moringa oil fight oxidative stress, making your scalp healthier.
Moisturising Properties
Due to its oleic acid content, moringa oil intensively moisturises the scalp without causing greasiness. Hence, it is most beneficial to those who have dry or scaly scalp disorders.
Benefits of Moringa Oil for Hair
1. Promotes Hair Growth
Moringa oil enriches hair follicles with minerals and vitamins that foster healthy growth. It has elevated levels of zinc that regulate sebum production, maintaining your scalp in equilibrium. In a 2023 in vivo rabbit trial using a DHT-induced alopecia model, moringa seed oil concentrations up to 12.5% enhanced hair length and weight dramatically equivalent to a finasteride control group.
2. Strengthens Weak Strands
If your hair is breakage-prone, moringa oil will save it. Fatty acids and amino acids in the oil penetrate the hair shaft, giving strength and a shield against styling and pollution damage.
3. Fights Dandruff and Dry Scalp
Dryness is the primary cause of dandruff. The moisturising properties of the moringa oil soothe the scalp, reduce flakiness, and seal an effective scalp barrier in place.
4. Adds Natural Shine
The vitamins in moringa oil nurture the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and leaving your hair with a healthy, shining shine.
Also Read: Moringa Powder: 5 Ways It Can Benefit Your Health
How to Use Moringa Oil for Hair
- Scalp Massage: Heat a few drops of moringa oil and massage it onto your scalp for 5–10 minutes. This stimulates blood flow and allows the nutrients to penetrate deeper. Leave it on for a minimum of 30 minutes before shampooing.
- Overnight Treatment: For intense hydration, apply moringa oil to your scalp and hair before bed and wash it out in the morning.
- Mix with Shampoo or Conditioner: Blend a few drops of moringa oil into your regular shampoo or conditioner to enhance its moisturising benefits.
- As a Leave-In: For avoiding frizz and extra shine, use a small amount of moringa oil on damp hair ends.
Tips for Best Results
- Use cold-pressed, virgin moringa oil for maximum effect.
- Use once or twice a week for healthier scalp and better hair quality.
- Use with a diet rich in protein and vitamins for optimal effect.