Garlic oil is an excellent natural remedy for promoting hair health. It is recognized for its antibacterial and antifungal characteristics, which can aid with hair growth, dandruff, and scalp concerns. This is an easy recipe for making garlic hair oil at home.
DIY Garlic Oil for Hair
Ingredients:
- 5-6 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil (or olive oil, depending on preference)
- A few drops of essential oil (optional, for fragrance, like lavender or rosemary)
Instructions to prepare Garlic Oil:
1. Crush the Garlic: Peel and mash the garlic cloves to unleash their natural juices.
2. Heat the Oil: In a small pan, heat the coconut oil (or olive oil) over low heat.
3. Infuse Garlic Into Oil: When the oil is heating, add the crushed garlic. Allow the garlic to infuse into the oil over low heat for 5-10 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
4. Strain the Oil: Once the oil has cooled, remove the garlic pieces with a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
5. Add Essential Oil (Optional): For a better aroma or additional hair benefits, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil, such as lavender or rosemary.
6. Store the Oil: Place the infused garlic oil in a clean bottle or jar. Keep it in a cool, dark area.
How to Use Garlic Oil:
Pre-Application: Always perform a patch test on your scalp before using garlic oil to ensure there are no allergic reactions or irritations. Apply a tiny amount of the oil to a small area of your skin (such as the inside of your wrist) and check for redness or itching after 24 hours.
Gently Massage: Apply the garlic oil to your scalp, focusing on areas where you wish to improve hair growth or address scalp issues.
Leave the Oil: Leave for at least 30 minutes, or perhaps overnight for better penetration.
Shampoo and Rinse: Once the recommended time has passed, shampoo your hair as usual to eliminate the oil.
Repeat Regularly: For optimal results, apply this oil once or twice a week.
Benefits of Garlic Oil
1. Promotes Hair Growth
Garlic contains sulfur compounds, including allicin, which are thought to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
2. Prevents Hair Loss
Garlic is commonly used to prevent hair thinning and loss. The sulfur components aid in promoting collagen formation, which is essential for hair health.
3. Fights Dandruff
Garlic contains antifungal and antibacterial qualities, making it a good treatment for dandruff. It aids in the elimination of fungus and bacteria that may be causing flaky, itchy scalp.
4. Strengthens Hair
Garlic is high in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, B6, and selenium, which help to strengthen the hair shaft.
5. Reduces Grey Hair
Although not scientifically established, many individuals believe that garlic can help prevent the appearance of grey hair by boosting healthy melanocytes, the cells that produce hair color.
7. Adds Shine and Softness
Garlic oils, especially when coupled with carrier oils such as coconut or olive oil, can help seal in moisture, boosting the texture and luster of your hair.
