When it comes to natural remedies for skin and hair care, jaggery might not be the first thing that comes to mind. This unrefined sugar, derived from sugarcane or palm sap, is more commonly associated with sweets and traditional dishes. However, jaggery is packed with nutrients that can work wonders for your skin and hair.
Jaggery helps in blackening your grey hair and it also gives a smooth texture to your hair. While we talk about skin, jaggery is a natural exfoliator and helps in removing dirt, dead skin and black heads. Here’s how you can incorporate this golden treasure into your beauty routine.
Nutritional Value
Several studies show that jaggery is rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to its numerous health benefits, which extend to skin and hair care. The presence of glycolic acid in jaggery helps in exfoliating dead skin cells, while its rich iron content promotes healthy blood circulation, imparting a natural glow to your skin and lustre to your hair.
Skin Care Benefits of Jaggery
This culinary staple in your kitchen can do wonders for your skin. Here are some of the benefits it offers to the skin.
Natural Exfoliant
Jaggery can be used as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and impurities. Its glycolic acid content helps in rejuvenating the skin and maintaining its elasticity. Mix jaggery with honey and a few drops of lemon juice to create a scrub. Gently massage it onto your face in circular motions, then rinse off with lukewarm water. This scrub will leave your skin smooth and radiant.
Anti-Aging Properties
The antioxidants in jaggery, as per studies, fight free radicals which are responsible for premature ageing. Regular use of jaggery in your skin care routine can help reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Prepare a face mask by combining jaggery powder with mashed banana and a teaspoon of yoghurt. Apply it to your face and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. This mask will nourish your skin and reduce signs of ageing.
Also read: Korean Skincare: 9 Anti Ageing Tips And Tricks
Acne Prevention
Jaggery’s anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing acne and pimples. It also aids in detoxifying the blood, which can lead to clearer skin. Consume a small piece of jaggery daily or add it to your morning tea. Additionally, you can apply a paste of jaggery and turmeric on acne-prone areas to reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts.
Skin Hydration
Jaggery helps in maintaining skin hydration and preventing dryness. Its natural humectant properties draw moisture from the environment into your skin. Mix jaggery powder with rose water and glycerin to create a hydrating mask. Apply it to your face and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing. This mask will keep your skin soft and hydrated.
Hair Care Benefits of Jaggery
Jaggery is one of the most underrated though effective remedies for hair care. This is how you can put jaggery to use for your hair.
Promotes Hair Growth
The iron and folate content in jaggery enhances blood circulation to the scalp, which stimulates hair growth and prevents hair loss. Incorporate jaggery into your diet by consuming it as a snack or adding it to your meals. For topical application, create a hair mask by mixing jaggery with coconut oil and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
Adds Shine to Hair
Regular use of jaggery can impart a natural shine to your hair, making it look healthy and vibrant. Prepare a hair rinse by dissolving jaggery in warm water. After shampooing, pour this mixture over your hair and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with plain water. This will add a beautiful shine to your hair.
Also read: Secret To Healthy Hair: Benefits Of Aloe Vera and Flaxseed Hair Mask And How To Make It
Prevents Premature Greying
The antioxidants and minerals in jaggery help in maintaining the natural colour of your hair and preventing premature greying. Consuming jaggery regularly can help in maintaining your hair’s natural colour. You can also create a hair mask by mixing jaggery with amla powder and water. Apply it to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off.
Conclusion
Incorporating jaggery into your skin and hair care routine can provide a range of benefits, from exfoliation and hydration to hair growth and dandruff treatment. Its natural, nutrient-rich composition makes it an excellent addition to any beauty regimen. So, the next time you think about skin and hair care, don’t forget to consider this sweet, golden treat. Jaggery might just be the secret ingredient you need for radiant skin and lustrous hair.