Flaxseed Benefits for Hair

Even though, the use of flaxseed by humans has been dated back to the Stone Age, its popularity as a food source diminished with time. But, of late, it has once again revived with more and more studies being conducted on flaxseed benefits. Nowadays, apart from whole flaxseed, its derivatives like oil, meal and nutritional supplements, are also available. Consumption of flaxseed is said to be beneficial for hair, skin and heart health.

Benefits of Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a rich source of various nutrients as well as beneficial compounds, especially, omega 3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. These seeds are said to be good for reducing cholesterol and for improving heart health. It is believed to be more beneficial for women. It is the omega 3 fatty acids in flaxseed that is said to be responsible for lowering the bad cholesterol levels and increasing the levels of good cholesterol. It is also suggested that intake of flaxseed may benefit people with cancer of the breast and prostate.

Flaxseed is beneficial for men as it is said to be good for reducing high blood pressure and in improving prostate health. It is also said to normalize the blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes. Dry eyes is another condition that can be remedied with flaxseed. Even menopausal symptoms are said to be alleviated with these seeds. Due to the high fiber content, flaxseed is also used as a laxative.

Flaxseed and Hair Growth

While intake of flaxseed is claimed to be effective in promoting hair growth, application of flaxseed oil is also said to work wonders for hair health. Studies show that hair loss due to hormonal imbalances in women can be remedied with flaxseed. Variations in the estrogen levels may lead to shrinking of hair follicles, thereby causing hair loss and hair thinning. The phytoestrogens in flaxseed may normalize the hormone levels, thereby arresting hair loss and boosting hair growth. Studies show that the omega 3 fatty acids in flaxseed may prove beneficial for treating scalp conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Consumption of flaxseed may help to prevent dandruff caused by these scalp conditions. So, hair loss caused by the above said scalp conditions can also be reduced with flaxseed use.

Even flaxseed oil and hair growth are linked. Application of this oil (otherwise known as linseed oil) is found to be beneficial for hair in different ways. Flaxseed oil capsules are also taken orally. Low omega fatty acid levels may cause hair dryness, which leads to brittle hair that can suffer damage easily. Application of flaxseed oil helps in combating hair dryness, thereby reducing the rate of hair damage and promoting hair growth. Due to these benefits, flaxseed oil is added to various hair styling products like hair setting lotions. The foam-like gel produced by boiling flaxseed in water is used for hair setting. In general, flaxseed intake is found to improve the strength and sheen of the hair, along with the skin and nails.

According to some studies, flaxseed may not work for all. Such people may try fish oil, instead of flaxseed oil. Even those who smoke and drink heavily, may not find any benefit from using flaxseed. While, consumption of whole/ground flaxseed is safe, excess intake is not recommended. However, flaxseed oil is not advisable for children as well as pregnant and nursing women. Even others must seek the advice of an expert regarding the use of flaxseed oil.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.