Garlic may be more known as a kitchen staple, but it’s also gaining popularity as a natural ingredient that supports hair growth, especially for Black women with natural hair.
Rich in essential nutrients like sulfur, selenium, and vitamins C, B6, and B1, garlic helps stimulate hair follicles, improve scalp health, and strengthen hair from root to tip.
Here’s how you can incorporate garlic into your hair care routine for healthier, fuller natural hair.
- Understanding the Benefits of Garlic for Hair Growth
Garlic contains sulfur, a mineral known for strengthening the structure of keratin in hair, helping to reduce breakage and shedding. It also has selenium, which works with vitamin E to enhance blood flow to the scalp and nourish hair follicles. Garlic’s anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties help combat dandruff and scalp infections, providing an ideal environment for hair growth. Additionally, garlic has high levels of vitamin C, promoting collagen production that helps in strengthening hair shafts.
- DIY Garlic Hair Oil Treatment
Creating a garlic-infused hair oil is a simple way to apply garlic’s benefits directly to the scalp and hair. Here’s a quick recipe:
Ingredients:
• 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or jojoba oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the carrier oil on low in a small saucepan and add the minced garlic.
2. Allow it to infuse for a few minutes, stirring to avoid burning the garlic.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool before straining out the garlic pieces.
4. Massage the infused oil into your scalp and distribute through your hair.
5. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then wash thoroughly with a gentle shampoo.
Use this treatment once a week to strengthen hair, nourish the scalp, and promote growth.
- Garlic and Honey Scalp Mask
Garlic and honey combine to create a powerful scalp mask that moisturizes and soothes while encouraging growth. Honey is a natural humectant, locking in moisture and leaving hair soft and hydrated.
Ingredients:
• 1–2 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
1. Mix the crushed garlic and honey into a smooth paste.
2. Apply the mixture directly to your scalp, focusing on any thinning areas.
3. Leave it on for 15–20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water and shampoo as usual.
This mask can be used once every two weeks for the best results.
- Tips for using Garlic safely
While garlic offers numerous benefits for hair, its strong scent and potency may be overwhelming. To reduce the smell, rinse your hair with a diluted apple cider vinegar solution after washing. Always do a patch test before trying any garlic-based treatments to avoid scalp irritation. If you have sensitive skin or any scalp condition, consult a dermatologist before using garlic.
Embrace the Power of Garlic for Hair Growth
With regular use, garlic can become a natural and effective ally in your hair care routine, providing the nourishment and strength needed to support growth. Embrace garlic’s powerful benefits to unlock healthier, fuller natural hair that truly thrives.