Black Sesame Seeds for Hair Growth: How to Eat & Benefits

Hair loss, hair thinning, and early greying are just a few of the many issues that people tend to face today, and they are most often caused by unhealthy diets, stress, and bad lifestyle choices. Although several hair products claim to heal these problems, according to experts, healthy hair starts from within. One of the traditional superfoods that is slowly returning to the limelight is black sesame seeds, or til. Over the last few years, these tiny seeds have been used in Asian medicine, and now they are being recognised for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

However, can black sesame seeds really help with hair growth, or is it just another fleeting trend?

To have our questions answered, we reached out to our expert, Dr Ruben Bhasin Passi, Consultant Dermatologist at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram explained that a good diet rich in minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants is very important for strong hair, and black sesame seeds provide most of the required nutrition.

Why Black Sesame Seeds Are Good for Hair

Black sesame seeds are loaded with nutrients that directly benefit the hair structure and growth cycles. They are a rich source of iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper, which are all minerals that collectively help to nourish hair follicles and improve the blood flow in the scalp. Iron in particular is a key element, as low iron levels are commonly associated with excessive hair loss.

Dr Passi pointed out that apart from these, black sesame seeds also contain high-quality omega-6 fatty acids, which help to keep the scalp hydrated and prevent it from becoming too dry. “When the scalp is hydrated properly, it is conducive for the hair to grow stronger and thicker in the long run,” she said.

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May Help Delay Premature Greying

One of the most talked-about benefits of black sesame seeds is their role in slowing premature greying. According to the traditional practices, these seeds are said to be of help in melanin production, which is the pigment that gives the natural colour to hair. Although genetics is the primary factor for greying, the minerals like copper and the antioxidants present in black sesame seeds are claimed to be the ones that aid in the survival of hair pigment cells against oxidative stress.

Supports Scalp Health and Reduces Breakage

Thin hair is often weak and thus easily breaks, which gives the appearance that the hair is not growing. Being a source of plant-based protein and essential amino acids, black sesame seeds also help strengthen the hair shaft. Additionally, their antioxidant property may lower the inflammation on the scalp, which is a common cause of dandruff, itching, and poor hair growth.

Dr Passi highlighted that foods that improve scalp health indirectly promote hair growth as they reduce shedding caused by inflammation or lack of nutrients.

How to Eat Black Sesame Seeds for Hair Growth

Incorporating black sesame seeds into your daily care routine is not only easy but also very flexible. Here is what Dr Passi suggested:

• Soaked seeds: Take a teaspoon of black sesame seeds and soak them overnight, then chew the seeds in the morning.
• Powder form: Dry roast and grind the seeds into a powder. Mix half a teaspoon with warm water or add it to smoothies.
• With meals: Add the roasted seeds on top of salads, curd, oatmeal, or mix them in chutneys.
• Traditional laddoos: Jaggery til laddoos made at home can be a wholesome winter treat when consumed in moderation.

“For optimum results, being consistent with the intake is more important than the quantity. Generally, one to two teaspoons a day is enough,” she shared.

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Who Should Be Careful?

Most people can consume black sesame seeds without any issue, but eating too much may lead to digestion problems because they are high in fat. Additionally, those with sesame allergies or certain medical conditions should check with their doctors first before making them a regular part of their diet.

Dr Passi concluded by saying that hair health is determined by different factors. “One food alone cannot bring back the lost hair. Black sesame seeds will have a positive effect when they are incorporated with a more nutritious diet, and are combined with good sleep, stress control, and sometimes even medical help,” she added.

Bottomline

Black sesame seeds are a great source of nutrients for your diet that may support the growth, strength, and health of the scalp through regular and moderate consumption, alongside a balanced diet.