Mustard oil for grey hair: Benefits and side effects

Mustard oil or sarson ka tel has been used in cooking for many years. It is also known for its nutritional properties that help one deal with hair issues, including grey hair. So, if your premature grey hair is troubling you and are looking for home remedies, start including mustard oil in your hair care routine. Mustard oil is not only good for preventing premature grey hair, it offers more benefits for your hair. Here are the benefits of mustard oil for hair, and tips to make DIY hair masks using this oil.

Mustard oil for grey hair: How does it work?

Mustard oil is believed to have properties that can help prevent premature greying of hair. This is because mustard oil is rich in antioxidants, nutrients, and compounds like selenium, which can protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and damage, says dermatologist Dr DM Mahajan. Oxidative stress is one of the primary causes of premature greying. It can damage the melanin-producing cells in the hair follicles, reducing melanin production, which can lead to grey hair. Mustard oil also contains antioxidant properties that help neutralise the free radicals that cause oxidative stress, thereby protecting the melanin-producing cells and preventing premature greying.

What are the benefits of using mustard oil for hair?

Apart from preventing premature greying of hair, mustard oil is good for the following reasons:

1. Provides nourishment

Mustard oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Regular mustard oil massage will nourish your hair follicles and stimulate hair growth. Make sure to use organic, cold-pressed oil, suggests the expert.

2. Keeps dandruff at bay

The antimicrobial properties of mustard oil can help combat the fungi and bacteria responsible for dandruff and scalp infections. So, using mustard oil in your hair care routine can help to keep dandruff away.

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3. Strengthens hair

The amino acids and minerals in mustard oil can fortify the hair structure, reducing breakage and split ends. So, use mustard oil to strengthen your hair.

4. Deep conditioning

The natural oils present in mustard oil can penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep conditioning and improving hair texture.

Also Read: 5 best mustard oils for hair growth and conditioning

Best mustard oil hair masks

Here are some of the best mustard oil hair masks:

1. Mustard oil and curry leaves

Ingredients:

Method:

• Heat mustard oil and add crushed curry leaves.
• Massage the mixture into the scalp and hair.
• Leave it on overnight and wash it off in the morning.

2. Mustard oil and Indian gooseberry or amla

Ingredients:

Method:

• Mix mustard oil with amla powder or juice.
• Apply the mixture to the scalp and hair, leaving it on for an hour before rinsing.

3. Mustard oil and coconut milk

Ingredients:

Method:

• Combine mustard oil and coconut milk.
• Massage the mixture into the scalp and hair.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing.

4. Mustard oil and henna

Ingredients:

Method:

• Mix mustard oil with henna powder and water to make a paste.
• Apply the paste to the hair and leave it on for a few hours before rinsing.

5. Mustard oil and curd

Ingredients:

Method:

• Mix mustard oil and curd.
• Apply the mixture to the hair and scalp. Leave it on for an hour before washing.

6. Mustard oil and fenugreek seeds

Ingredients:

• Mustard oil
• Fenugreek seeds

Method:

• Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight.
• Grind them into a paste and mix with mustard oil.
• Apply the mixture to the hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing.

What are the side effects of using mustard oil?

While mustard oil is generally considered safe for hair, some potential side effects include:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to mustard oil, leading to skin irritation, redness, or rashes.
• Scalp irritation: Undiluted or improperly applied mustard oil can cause scalp irritation or burning sensations.
• Hair dryness: Overuse of mustard oil can lead to dry, brittle hair if not properly rinsed out.

While mustard oil can be beneficial for your health, consult your doctor to avoid any complications.