BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS FOR HAIR
What are the benefits of Chia seeds for hair, which hair masks with Chia seeds are best to use.
INNA CODRU , AUGUST 18, 2021
Chia seeds are rich in essential fatty acids, protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. They are superior in nutritional value to most other cereals, grains and vegetables. And it's not just limited to food and diet. Hair lovers use them in masks, gels, complexes and hair ointments to make their curls healthier and brighter. Chia seed oil is also becoming popular as a natural hair emollient. Read on to learn about the benefits of chia seeds for hair growth and how they can be used.
REASONS WHY CHIA SEEDS ARE GOOD FOR HAIR
1. Helps to get rid of dry skin on the head. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They help improve skin (or scalp) hydration and improve barrier function. Some researchers believe that applying chia seed oil with a carrier oil to a dry scalp can help get rid of dandruff.
2. Can accelerate hair growth. These seeds are rich in protein. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. Chia seeds help combat the harmful effects of inflammation.
3. Can improve hair texture. Chia seeds contain more calcium, phosphorus and magnesium than most other grains. They also have a higher concentration of iron, selenium, copper and zinc. These minerals are believed to be vital for improving hair texture. Chia seeds can also enhance hair shine.
MASKS AND GELS FOR HAIR GROWTH FROM CHIA SEEDS
Nourishing Hair Gel Mask with Chia Seeds
You will need:
- Chia seeds: 4 cups
- Filtered water: 1 cup
- Aloe vera gel: 1 tablespoon
- Essential oil of your choice: a few drops (optional)
- Pot small or medium
- Small to medium mixing bowl
Procedure:
- Mix 1 cup filtered water with 4 cups chia seeds in a bowl.
- Leave the mixture overnight.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl the next day.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10 minutes.
- Strain the swollen chia seeds with a cheesecloth/strainer.
- Add a tablespoon of aloe vera gel.
- Whisk carefully.
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Mix well.
- Apply the gel to damp hair and leave on for 20 minutes.
- Rinse off the residue and proceed to hair care.
Why it works:
The essential fats, protein, and vitamins of chia seeds can nourish the scalp, hair fibers, and follicles. Aloe vera gel conditions hair and moisturizes dry scalp. The mixture of chia and aloe forms a moisturizing suspension that is easy to apply to the hair. This DIY hair gel is 100% vegan, gluten free and suitable for most hair and scalp types.
Chia seed hair mask, deep conditioning
You will need:
- Organic coconut oil: 6 tablespoons
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Organic honey: ¾ cup
- Chia seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Medium mixing bowl suitable for microwave use
- Glass jar or container
- Microwave
Procedure:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to melt the coconut oil.
- Mix well. Set aside to cool.
- Apply the hair mask to shampooed hair from roots to ends.
- Leave for 3-5 minutes.
- Rinse well and continue with normal hair care.
- Store the rest of the mixture in a small glass container and use it whenever you like.
Why it works:
Coconut oil reduces keratin loss and hair damage by easily penetrating and nourishing the scalp. Apple cider vinegar has powerful antimicrobial properties. It can balance the pH of the scalp and add shine to the hair. Raw honey can help treat seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff and even prevent hair loss.
Chia seed hair mask with anti-inflammatory action
You will need:
- Chia seeds: 4 teaspoons
- Apple cider vinegar: half a glass
Procedure:
- Soak chia seeds in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Drain the water and transfer the seeds to a bowl.
- Add apple cider vinegar to the swollen seeds and crush them. This will create a thick paste.
- Apply this paste to your hair from roots to ends. Do this before washing your hair.
- Leave on for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse and shampoo your hair as usual.
Why it works:
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has antimicrobial properties. Together with chia seeds, ACV can condition, nourish and strengthen hair, follicles and fibers.
You can add chia seeds to soups, salads, smoothies and juices for extra nutrition:
- Grind the seeds and add the powder to puddings and desserts.
- Sprinkle the breakfast cereal on the chia seeds.
- Add a teaspoon of chia seeds to a glass of lemonade or morning tea.
CONCLUSIONS:
Chia seeds are rich in essential fats, proteins, amino acids and minerals essential for hair growth and maintenance. While more research is needed to better understand the benefits of chia seeds for hair, anecdotal evidence supports the benefits of using them. Buy a bag of chia seeds today and whip up a hair mask or gel using our recipes. With regular use, your hair will become shinier and healthier.