What Are Good Natural Products for Hair Growth & Softening?
Healthy hair adds to an individual's personality and provides an additional element of style. However, increased pollution and excessive use of chemical products have deleterious effects on the growth and texture of hair. A protein- and iron-rich diet, together with the use of natural products, can help hair grow faster and allow it to regain lost luster in a considerably short period of time. Does this Spark an idea?
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Eggs
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Eggs promote healthy hair. Egg yolk, with its proteins, is a natural softener for hair. It is rich in vitamin B, which helps in the production of oxygen and increases blood flow to the scalp, thereby strengthening hair roots. Egg yolk is also rich in fatty acids that fight dandruff, flaky scalp and psoriasis by improving the skin structure of the scalp.
Oils
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Oils contain essential fatty acids that can soften hair. Almond, castor, olive, coconut and mustard oils are effective examples. Gently massaging these oils into the scalp helps soften dead skin and ease scalp irritation and inflammation. Removing the dead skin frees the hair follicles, making it easier for the hair to continue growing without dead skin blocking its growth.
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Herbs
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Herbs are effective in softening the hair and making it healthier and stronger. Wild yam or China root balances the production of hormones, which is essential for good hair growth. Palmetto controls hair loss by blocking the enzyme responsible for the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the major cause of hair loss. It also blocks the receptor sites of cell membranes, thus preventing absorption of DHT. Stinging nettle also prevents the formation of DHT. Lycium fruit contains beneficial nutrients like vitamins, minerals, beta carotene, polysaccharides and amino acids, which increase blood circulation to the scalp and assist in healthy hair growth.
Nuts
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Nuts contain protein, vitamins, magnesium, iron and fatty acids -- all of which stimulate hair growth. Cashews, almonds, walnuts, peanuts and pistachios are particularly effective in this regard. They contain a balanced mix of saturated, mono-saturated and un-saturated fats, which prevent dandruff and add volume to hair.
Fruit and Vegetables
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Citrus fruits (such as oranges, lemons and grapefruit), darkly pigmented fruits (such as cherries, blueberries, cranberries, pomegranates, raspberries and plums), and vegetables (like broccoli, greens and peas) are rich in Vitamin C and bioflavonoids -- many of which are antioxidants. Antioxidants help increase circulation to the scalp, which encourages hair growth.
Shealoe Butter, Coconut Milk and Avocado Paste
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Shealoe butter, coconut milk or a paste of avocado (peeled and mashed) with a small amount of mayonnaise makes a useful conditioner to soften hair. Each of these can be applied individually to the hair and let to sit for 15 minutes before a thorough wash.
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References
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