Indian Foods for Healthy Hair: A Nutrient-Rich Guide for Stronger Hair.
Discover the best Indian foods for healthy hair! This nutrient-rich guide offers natural options packed with vitamins and minerals to boost hair strength, shine, and growth
Bareera Fayaz
Research Team, DermaQ
Healthy hair is often a reflection of the food we consume. While numerous products promise quick fixes, nothing supersedes the power of healthy and nutritious food. Indian cuisine, famous for its rich and diverse flavors, mixes a variety of ingredients that are essential for promoting healthy hair and skin. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your roots, boost growth, or achieve glowing skin, the right diet can work wonders.
In the following sections, we will explore the best Indian food for healthy hair, concentrate on ingredients that improve hair growth, prevent hair loss and improve overall scalp health.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry) for hair growth
- Amla is a rich combination of Vitamin C and antioxidants, which strengthen hair follicles and combat oxidative stress.
- It’s a primary ingredient in Ayurveda for healthy Indian hair, nurture natural shine.
- A research was done on Amla in the National library of medicine which highlights that amla’s high polyphenol content protects against free radicals, supporting scalp health.
- Consume it as fresh amla juice shots or add it as amla powder to smoothies to get the benefits
Fenugreek Seeds (Methi) for healthy hair
- Fenugreek seeds contain protein, iron and nicotinic acid, which promotes hair growth and reduces dandruff.
- Research in the International Journal of Pharmacognosy states that fenugreek has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting hair density.
- How to eat them:
- soak them overnight, grind them into a paste and use them as a hair mask. Alternatively, incorporate them into traditional Indian dishes like chutneys to enhance your Indian diet for healthy hair growth.
Curry Leaves for shiny hair
- Curry leaves are rich in beta-carotene and amino acids that prevent hair fall and premature graying.
- Studies in Advances in Pharmacology and Toxicology show that curry leaves have strong antioxidant properties, protecting the scalp.
- How to consume them:
- add curry leaves to dals or rice dishes. Their inclusion in a south Indian food for hair growth routine is highly beneficial.
Aloe Vera
- It is known for its hydrating properties that ultimately enhances healthy scalp, reducing dandruff and dryness.
- Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology confirms that aloe vera improves hydration, fostering a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Tips to use aloe vera for healthy hair: apply aloe vera gel directly to the scalp or incorporate it in smoothies. It supports healthy skin and hair by balancing hydration levels.
Coconut and Coconut Oil
- Coconut oil penetrates deep into the hair shaft, preventing protein loss and keeping hair moisturised.
- A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science states that coconut-based hair oil (CBHO) is effective in reducing hair breakage. In the research, it was found that CBHO strengthens hair by reducing its porosity and protecting it from losing protein during washing. This makes hair less prone to damage and breakage, highlighting its ability to repair and protect hair.
- Coconut is a key component of south Indian food for hair growth.
- Tips to use Coconut oil for healthy hair:
Try to massage warm coconut oil into your scalp weekly or add coconut-based dishes to your meals.
Spinach
- Spinach contains elements of iron, folate, and Vitamin A, all essential for scalp health and blood circulation.
- Archives of Dermatology emphasises spinach’s role in combating hair loss caused by nutrient deficiencies.
- How to consume Spinach :
Add spinach to curries or smoothies because it is an excellent Indian vegetarian food for hair growth and glowing skin.
Ashwagandha for healthy hair:
- Ashwagandha balances hormones and reduces cortisol, addressing stress-induced hair loss.
- A study in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels, aiding in hair growth.
- Tips to use ashwagandha for healthy hair:
- Try it to use in supplement form or mix its powder into milk. It complements an Indian diet for healthy hair.
Sesame Seeds
- Sesame seeds are a mixture of fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins, promoting blood circulation to the scalp.
- Research in Nutrition Reviews states that sesame seeds support healthy follicles and hair strength. How to consume Sesame seeds for healthy hair growth: consume sesame seeds to salads or traditional sweets like laddoos for stronger, healthy Indian hair.
Ghee (Clarified Butter) for healthy hair:
- Ghee nourishes the scalp with omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E, helps in the reduction of dryness and brittleness.
- According to studies done by the National library of Medicine, it states that ghee's fatty acid profile contributes to scalp nourishment.
- How to intake ghee for healthy hair : Try it as a teaspoon in your daily meals for healthy Indian hair growth.
Yogurt:
- Yogurt is a combination of protein and probiotics, which enhance scalp health and strengthen hair.
- Studies show probiotics in yogurt improve scalp microbiota, fostering hair growth.
- How to consume yogurt for healthy hair: Try it in your breakfast or in savory dishes. It's a key part of an Indian diet chart for healthy hair and glowing skin.
Tips on How to Keep Indian Hair Healthy
- Always stick to a balanced Indian diet for healthy hair by combining these superfoods into your meals.
- We should always remain hydrated to maintain scalp moisture that promotes hair growth.
- It's essential to embrace traditional hair care practices like oil massages with coconut or sesame oil to protect hair breakage.
The consumption of a nutrient-rich Indian diet for healthy skin and hair offers an effective, natural way to promote hair growth, reduce hair loss and maintain scalp health. By incorporating these best Indian foods for hair growth in your daily meals, ultimately you can nourish your hair from within and enjoy its long-lasting benefits.
So, if you’ve been wondering what are good foods to eat for healthy hair, start with these time-tested ingredients and enjoy the transformative effects of a natural food for a healthy hair routine.