Flaxseed can indeed be a valuable remedy for dry and brittle hair, and you’re on the right track looking at both flaxseed oil and gel made from the seeds. In Siddha-Ayurvedic principles, we focus on balancing the doshas, and flaxseed is particularly beneficial for reducing the excessive Vata dosha, which often manifests as dryness in the body, including dry hair.
Firstly, let’s talk about flaxseed oil. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be applied directly to your hair. Simply take a small amount of oil—enough to coat your strands—and gently massage it onto your scalp and through the length of your hair. It’s best to do this before your shower. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, then wash it out with a mild shampoo using lukewarm water. This will help lock in the moisture, nourish your hair, and potentially improve shine.
For the flaxseed gel, you’ll need to prepare it from the seeds themselves. Start by boiling 1/4 cup of whole flaxseeds in 2 cups of water. Stir occasionally, and after about 10-15 minutes, you’ll notice a gel-like consistency forming. Strain the seeds out using a fine strainer once it cools down slightly. Store the gel in a clean container in the fridge and apply it to clean, damp hair as a leave-in conditioner. It helps retain moisture and gives a slight hold to your hairstyle.
Apply the gel to both your scalp and throughout the hair length, focusing on the ends, which tend to be drier. When applying, it’s better to do so on damp hair, as this assists with absorption. Ensure you don’t over-apply, as too much gel can leave a residue and weigh hair down.12
Incorporate these methods into your routine 1-2 times a week and assess how your hair responds. Increasing the intake of flaxseed through diet can also support hair health from the inside out, but do so gradually and with proper digestion in mind to maintain balance. If after a few weeks there’s no improvement, it might be worthwhile consulting a local Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess any underlying imbalances in your doshas that might be affecting your hair health more broadly.
