Turmeric for Hair Growth: Does It Actually Help?

If you're like most people, you probably think of turmeric as nothing more than a spice used in Indian food.

However, this powerful root has many other benefits, including hair growth.

In this blog post, we will discuss the evidence behind turmeric for hair growth and whether or not it actually works. We'll also give you some tips on how to use turmeric for hair growth if you're interested in trying it out!

What is turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the Curcuma longa plant. It has a deep orange color and a slightly bitter, peppery taste. Turmeric is used in cooking as well as in traditional medicine practices.

Curcumin has been shown to have many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. There is some evidence that curcumin may also be beneficial for hair growth.

Uses of turmeric

Turmeric has a host of potential health benefits, including:

-Anti-inflammatory properties

-Antioxidant properties

-May be beneficial for hair growth

-May help prevent cancer

-May reduce your risk of heart disease

Turmeric may also have antimicrobial activity, which could be useful in treating some types of bacterial infections.

Studies show that turmeric is effective against many different bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella spp. It may also inhibit the growth of certain fungi, such as Candida albicans (the most common cause of yeast infections).

Turmeric for hair growth

The mechanisms behind the potential benefits of curcumin for hair growth are not fully understood.

However, it is thought that curcumin may help to improve scalp health and promote hair growth by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Additionally, curcumin has been shown to stimulate the production of new hair follicles, which could lead to thicker and healthier hair.

A small study published in 2013 found that turmeric was effective in promoting hair growth in women with alopecia areata, a type of hair loss.

The study participants were given a topical application of turmeric twice daily for three months. At the end of the study, all of the participants showed significant improvement in hair growth.

Another study, published in 2016, found that curcumin was effective in promoting hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia, a type of hair loss caused by hormones.

The study participants were given a daily supplement containing curcumin for six months. At the end of the study, they showed significant improvement in hair growth and decreased levels of DHT (a hormone that contributes to hair loss).

Ways to use turmeric for hair growth

If you're interested in trying out turmeric for hair growth, there are a few ways you can do it:

-Add ground turmeric to your favorite shampoo or conditioner or buy ones that already contain it.

-Mix ground turmeric with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and apply it directly to your hair and scalp. Leave on overnight, then wash out in the morning.

-Make your own DIY hair mask using this recipe.

-Make a mask with fresh turmeric paste. Mix one tablespoon of ground turmeric with enough water to make a paste. Apply the paste to your scalp and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with shampoo and condition as usual.

-Take a curcumin supplement. Look for a supplement that contains 95% curcuminoids. Curcumin is often added to the formulas of hair growth supplements. Be sure to speak with your doctor before taking any new supplements.

Possible side effects of using turmeric

Turmeric is generally considered safe, but there are a few potential side effects to be aware of:

-May cause gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion.

-May interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications.

-Can stain clothes and skin yellow.

-Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and can theoretically reduce the effectiveness of some medications.

-Can cause skin irritation in some people.

If you experience any adverse effects when taking turmeric, stop using it and consult your doctor.

FAQs

Is it safe to take turmeric while pregnant or breastfeeding?

There is limited research on the safety of turmeric during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it's best to avoid using it until more is known.

Is there a difference between curcumin and turmeric?

Yes, curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. It's responsible for most of its health benefits.

Where can I buy ground turmeric?

You can find ground turmeric at most supermarkets and health food stores.

Does turmeric have any other benefits?

Turmeric has a host of other potential benefits, including reducing inflammation, fighting cancer, and improving heart health. However, more research is needed to confirm these claims.

How long do I need to take turmeric before I see results?

It's difficult to say how long it will take to see results, as different people may respond differently. It's best to try it for a few months and see if you notice any improvement in your hair health.

Does turmeric have any adverse effects on fertility?

There is no evidence that turmeric has any adverse effects on fertility. In fact, there are some studies showing that it may increase sperm count and improve male fertility.

Is turmeric the same thing as ginger?

No, ginger and turmeric are two different spices with different flavors. Turmeric tastes slightly bitter while ginger has a spicy, peppery taste.

The takeaway

Turmeric is a wonderful spice that has many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant activity. It may also be beneficial for hair growth because of its ability to stimulate the production of new hair follicles, reduce inflammation (which contributes to alopecia), increase circulation (which increases nutrient delivery), and decrease DHT levels (a hormone that contributes to male pattern baldness).

If you're interested in trying it out, be sure to add ground turmeric to your favorite shampoo or conditioner, make a mask with fresh turmeric paste, or take a curcumin supplement. Enjoy healthy, volumized hair!