Sesame seeds, also known as til, gingelly, or simsim, are widely used to produce oil all over the world. (1)(2) Sesame oil is rich in proteins, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids (linoleic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, etc.) and has various medicinal benefits.
Sesame oil also contains a unique compound known as sesamin, which has widespread use in alternative medicine practices such as homeopathy and Ayurveda. Sesamin is most commonly found in the Piper species of sesame seeds.
Benefits of Sesame Oil for Hair
Sesame oil offers a number of benefits for your hair. In fact, it is a traditional remedy for hair loss and hair damage in many cultures.
Here’s a deeper look at the uses of sesame oil for hair:
1. Prevents hair loss and promotes hair growth
Sesame oil has traditionally been used in Ayurveda to promote hair growth as it contains the beneficial compound sesamin. (3)(4) It also contains essential fatty acids, vitamin E, phosphorus, and other nutrients that strengthen your hair from within and prevent breakage.
There have been several studies conducted on the role of sesame oil in preventing hair loss.
In a 2018 research study published in Baghdad, forty patients suffering from patchy alopecia areata were treated with sesame oil for a year. More than half of these patients reported complete hair regrowth, while a few had partial regrowth. (4) This study effectively demonstrated the benefits of sesame oil in promoting hair growth and fighting hair loss.
2. Prevents premature graying of hair
Sesame oil is very effective in darkening hair when applied regularly. Sesamin has hair-darkening properties that help fight premature graying. It promotes melanin production and has also been used in certain hair dyes and cosmetics meant for darkening hair. (3)(5)
3. Fights dandruff
Sesame oil has a cooling effect on the scalp and provides relief from scalp irritation. It also possesses antifungal properties that can help fight dandruff and itching.
Sesame oil is mostly used in combination with other natural oils such as amla oil and hibiscus oil for maximum benefit. (6)
4. Promotes hair and scalp health
Sesame oil helps soothe the scalp and is commonly used for head massages. It can treat scalp itching and irritation, promote hair growth and thickness, condition the hair, and improve the general health of your scalp.
5. Eradicates lice
Sesame oil contains insecticidal properties that can help you get rid of lice naturally. It kills lice and conditions your hair to loosen nits and make them easier to remove.
How to Use Sesame Oil on Hair
Here are a few simple ways to use sesame oil on your hair:
1. Sesame oil and curry leaves for hair growth
Sesame oil contains nutrients including protein and vitamin E that help promote hair growth. It also contains the active compound called sesamin, which is known to boost hair growth.
Curry leaves contain antioxidants, various amino acids, and protein, which help prevent hair loss and thinning.
Ingredients:
How to use:
- Pour the sesame oil into a vessel and heat it.
- Add the curry leaves to the oil and let it simmer for a while until the leaves darken.
- After cooling, strain the solution and apply it to your scalp and hair.
- Let it sit for half an hour before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
2. Sesame oil and fenugreek for dandruff
Sesame oil contains antiseptic and antifungal properties that can get rid of dandruff. Fenugreek, on the other hand, provides relief from scalp irritation and itching.
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp fenugreek seeds
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
How to use:
- Add the fenugreek seeds to the oil and heat it lightly for a few seconds until it simmers.
- After cooling, strain the mixture and apply it to your scalp and hair.
- Massage your scalp for 5 minutes and leave it on for half an hour.
- Wash it off with a mild shampoo.
3. Sesame oil and pumpkin seed oil for hair loss
Pumpkin seed oil and sesame oil can be used to fight patchy hair loss caused by alopecia areata. These oils promote significant hair regrowth in 3–4 months.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp pumpkin seed oil
How to use:
- Mix the ingredients well in a bowl.
- Apply this mixture to your scalp and hair.
- Let it sit for half an hour before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
4. Sesame oil and castor oil for gray hair
Sesame oil helps increase melanin production in the hair and fights premature graying. Castor oil contains several antioxidants that help fight free radical damage and darken hair.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp castor oil
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
How to use:
- Mix the two ingredients well in a bowl.
- Apply this oil blend to your scalp and hair.
- Massage it for 5 minutes and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.
- Wash it off with a mild shampoo.
Side Effects of Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is a completely natural product and side effects are rare. However, some people may experience the following:
- Allergic reactions: redness, swelling, difficulty breathing (7)
- Mild scalp irritation
- Scalp folliculitis: small and itchy sores or pustules on the scalp (8)
Always perform a patch test before applying sesame oil to your scalp. Contact a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction or scalp folliculitis.
Most-Asked Questions About Sesame Oil
Can sesame oil grow hair?
Yes. Several medical researches and studies have demonstrated the positive effects of sesame oil on the hair growth cycle, especially in people suffering from alopecia areata.
Can we apply sesame oil to hair daily?
Yes, sesame oil promotes hair growth and soothes the scalp. Make sure you are not allergic to it by performing a patch test.
Final Word
Sesame oil offers a wide range of benefits to your hair and scalp. It helps deep condition, darken, thicken, and regrow hair. Filled with antioxidants, nutrients, and fatty acids, sesame oil is an inexpensive answer to all your hair woes.
Sesame oil also provides various other medicinal benefits for the body. It improves digestion, strengthens the immune system, and fights metabolic disorders. It is no wonder then that it has been nicknamed the “queen of oilseeds.”
