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Ayurvedic Hair Care 101:

5 Excellent Benefits of Fenugreek for Hair Growth

It’s hardly a secret that most of us, if not all, desire glossy, thick, healthy hair that even shampoo ads would have to envy (insert slow-motion hair toss, here!). It’s not a secret either that we usually have to rely on commercially-made shampoos, conditioners, oils, and hair masques in our quest to achieve those enviable locks. But, sadly, these don’t always work – even when used religiously.

It’s one reason many naturalistas look to natural hair products for natural hair care. Take fenugreek (aka methi), for example. The benefits of fenugreek for hair growth have been known for millennia. It’s an Ayurvedic hair care ingredient that’s often hailed as a miracle worker whether you add the seeds to food, soak them in water, or use them topically!

Before we jump into looking at the upsides of using fenugreek for your hair, let’s take a look at “What is fenugreek?” and a bit of the history of its use.

What is fenugreek?

Fenugreek, commonly known as methi, is a part of the legume, pea, or bean family of flowering plants. It was first cultivated in the Near East and, historically, has been used extensively across Asia, North Africa, the Mediterranean, and some parts of Europe.

Both the leaves and seeds of the fenugreek plant have been used in South Asian cooking. They are also crushed to powder or paste for medicine, soaked in water, and consumed to aid digestion.

You can find a wealth of general information on fenugreek on the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health website.

 

 

For more CurlyNikki articles on other ingredients used in Ayurvedic hair care, check out:

• The Terrific Benefits of Turmeric for Hair Growth – Curly Hair Ingredients 101
• Ayurveda Haircare: Bhringraj Oil for Hair Growth – 5 Wonderful Benefits
• 4 Remarkable Benefits of Amla Powder and Amla Oil for Hair
• Neem Oil – 6 Wonderful Facts about This Curly Haircare Ingredient

Is Fenugreek good for hair growth?

According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, fenugreek contains high amounts of both iron and protein. These nutrients are vital for healthy hair growth:

• Iron helps with the transportation of oxygen to the body’s cells.
• Protein gives hair strands structure and strength.

Research has observed that fenugreek can work wonders for hair growth. In fact, a study examined the impact of orally taking fenugreek seed extract over six months, with more than 80% of subjects showing positive results, in hair growth and strength.

Let’s take a look at some other ways in which fenugreek hair products, whether made from the leaves, oil, or seeds can assist with hair growth.

Five benefits of fenugreek for hair growth

1. Fenugreek is folic acid-rich.

We know by now that folic acid is an essential component for healthy hair growth and regeneration of cells present in hair follicles. Well, good news! Fenugreek is rich in folic acid, thus stimulating rapid growth of new hair follicles, and repairing the ones already present, too. Fenugreek also contains good amounts of potassium and Vitamin E, both of which are known as superheroes to get great hair.

Get more information on vitamin E:

• Curly Haircare: Vitamin E for Hair Growth – 6 Wonderful Benefits
• Enjoy The Best Sources of Vitamin E for Hair Growth – 8 Tasty Recipes

2. Fenugreek reduces hair breakage and hair fall.

Fenugreek actively fights hair fall with its high iron and calcium content, strengthening your curls and reducing breakage considerably. Fenugreek is helpful in fighting and slowing down the activity of DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), which is great because the presence of DHT is a sure cause for hair fall! When used with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil, fenugreek is particularly effective in arresting hair fall.

3. Fenugreek fights inflammation.

Fenugreek is an antioxidant as well as an excellent anti-inflammatory ingredient for great hair. When used in the form of powder and/or paste, fenugreek extract helps soothe irritated scalps, reduces inflammation significantly, and boosts blood circulation in the scalp.

4. Fenugreek treats dandruff.

Fenugreek contains saponins, which are plant-based chemicals organic in nature. These saponins give it the ability to effectively fight dandruff when used regularly. Fenugreek is a great option for those who want to combat fungal scalp conditions. It has antimicrobial properties and can arrest yeast growth on the scalp. That sounds like a great solution for anyone looking to soothe troubled scalp!

5. Fenugreek adds shine to hair.

Let’s face it- many of us have grown fond of using heat on our hair to get it styled the way we want it, not to forget color treatments, hairspray, and whatnot! We know it’s not great for our tresses, but the temptation is often too strong to resist, right? No worries though, fenugreek is an excellent natural ingredient to use on your curls if you want to heal them from all that damage! Fenugreek has a calming effect on curly hair, restoring moisture, adding bounce and extra shine- what more could we want?

How to use fenugreek for hair growth

As mentioned before, using fenugreek with a carrier oil is a great way to derive maximum benefits for your scalp and strands.

All you have to do is grind up some fenugreek seeds in the mixer, add a couple of tablespoons of oil (coconut, almond, jojoba, olive- use any carrier you prefer). Then apply this to your hair, concentrating on the roots.

Let it sit for ten to fifteen minutes, then wash off with shampoo for instantly fresh, bouncy curls! You can even prepare a conditioning mask with fenugreek, curd, honey, and carrier oil, for a richer experience.

You may also take fenugreek orally as a supplement, but be sure to consult your physician to ensure that it’s safe for you to consume. Of course, you also have the option of seeking out fenugreek products for hair care. There is a wide variety of fenugreek oils that can be used in your haircare and skincare routines.

Naturalista and YouTuber EfikZara is very much into Ayurvedic hair care. She makes her own amazing hair oil with fenugreek as one of the ingredients. Watch how she does it, here: Fantastic (and FAST!) Ayurveda Oil for Hair Growth by Zara.

So now you know some of the major benefits of fenugreek for hair, and how it can be used. How will you be using fenugreek on your lovely curls?

Do you make use of fenugreek for hair growth? Tell us about it!