Growing up in an Indian household, your childhood probably included having soaked almonds and a glass of milk first thing in the morning. Many believe that almonds boost memory and play a vital role in the healthy functioning of the brain. And as you also know, almond benefits for hair and skin are innumerable. If you want healthy hair and nourished skin, munching a handful of almonds each day can give you that and much more. Almonds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and using its oil can strengthen and soften hair. Regular application of this oil will leave a nice coating on your hair that protects hair from the sun, dirt, pollution and damage which is often the reason behind hair thinning, lightening, aging and damage," says celebrity dermatologist Dr. Rashmi Shetty. Let's take a look at all the Almond benefits for hair.
01Almond benefits for hair
- Locks moisture in
- Promotes hair growth
- Reduces hair fall
- Helps cure dandruff
- Prevents damage and split ends
- Prevents premature hair greying
i) Lock moisture into the hair
If your hair lacks moisture and looks lifeless, the first thing you have to do is add almonds to your diet. Another way in which almond oil benefits your hair is by locking moisture into the strands. Almond oil is non-greasy in texture and relatively easy to apply on the hair. It works as a great sealant and locks in essential vitamins, nutrients and amino acids that your hair needs to stay shiny and healthy.
Pro tip: Apart from applying oil to the roots, consuming a teaspoon of pure almond oil every day can provide essential nutrients to your hair.
ii) Promote hair growth
Are almonds good for hair growth? Yes, One of the best almond benefits is that it helps promote hair growth . It is loaded with vitamin E, which is a natural antioxidant, that helps combat and protect your tresses from environmental stressors, making it healthier and shinier. Almonds for hair growth are highly effective as they prevent hair fall and strengthen the roots. Hair growth is not hampered by split ends and breakage. Consuming almonds or applying its paste will provide your roots with nourishing oils and increase blood circulation in the scalp, thereby promoting hair growth and shine.
Pro tip: Wondering how to eat almonds for hair growth? Start by eating 4-5 soaked almonds every morning or topically apply its paste on the scalp.
iii) Reduce hair fall
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and magnesium, all of which are essential for hair health. These nourish the hair follicles and encourage the growth of hair that is healthy and thick. Apart from all this, almonds also contain good amounts of biotin that repairs weak and brittle hair as well as improves its texture.
Pro tip: Almond milk is an amazing substitute for dairy and can be easily made at home. Use it as and when you can, to reap maximum benefits for hair.
iv) Helps cure dandruff
Dandruff and other scalp infections are common in winter and monsoon months. This can be treated by harnessing the benefits of almond oil. Apart from eating almonds, you can apply its oil to the scalp to treat infections. Both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicinal experts recommend almond oil to treat seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis and other similar problems.
Pro tip: Massage almond oil to your scalp 3-4 times a week and let it stay overnight, wash it off the next morning. Doing this regularly will solve the problem of dandruff.
v) Prevent hair damage and split ends
Dry and damaged hair is a common concern among women all over the world. Overuse of hair styling products, chemicals and environmental stressors are responsible for damaging hair and causing split ends. Benefits of soaked almonds for hair include their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that repair hair from root to tip and supplement it with necessary oils. It also contains vitamin E that penetrates deep into the hair follicles and prevents damage and split ends.
Pro tip: Crush 2-3 almonds and warm it in any carrier oil of your choice and then apply the oil at the roots for best results.
vi) Prevent premature greying
Spotting grey or white hair in your 20s is never a good thing. Instead of freaking out, simply add this beneficial nut to your diet. Grey hair occurs due to the loss of hair pigments and the build-up of hydrogen peroxide in the hair follicle. Eating antioxidant-rich foods like almonds can prevent the build-up of hydrogen peroxide. Almonds contain an antioxidant called catalase that works wonders in preventing the onset of premature greying of hair.
Pro tip: Eat a small bowl of mixed nuts instead of fried snacks in between meals. This will keep you feeling fuller for longer.
02DIY treatments using almonds
i) Scalp scrub
Grind 10 almonds with the skin to get a fine powder, add enough castor oil to get a scrub-like consistency. Taking a small portion at a time, massage thoroughly into the scalp covering the roots properly. Let it stay for 10 minutes then wash with your regular shampoo. This will remove dry skin, product build-up and other impurities from the scalp. It also promotes blood circulation.
ii) Hair mask
In a bowl, mash one ripe banana, add a teaspoon of honey and mix well. Transfer to a blender and add a teaspoon of sweet almond oil and blend to get a smooth paste. Apply all over the hair, focusing on the tips. Leave it on for about 30 minutes and wear a shower cap to prevent making a mess. This hair mask works as a natural conditioner to soften your hair and make it healthy.
03FAQs on almond benefits for hair
1) What is the best way to consume almonds
A. Almonds can be consumed both raw and soaked. However, soaking almonds helps remove the toxins that may have settled on the outer skin. Soaked almonds are also better for people who have a weak digestive system.
2) How many almonds should one consume in a day?
A. There is no fixed quantity when it comes to eating almonds or any other nuts for that matter, it all depends on the needs of your body. An average person can eat 14-15 soaked almonds a day for healthy hair and body.
3) Can almonds be eaten on an empty stomach?
A. Almonds contain many useful nutrients, there is no harm in consuming this nut on an empty stomach.
4) How does almond oil benefit hair growth?
Almond oil nourishes hair follicles with minerals and vitamin E, promoting stronger, healthier hair and potentially reducing hair thinning.
5) Can almond oil help with scalp issues?
Yes, almond oil soothes dry, itchy, and flaky scalp conditions like dandruff due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
