Pumpkin seed oil: Benefits for strong and shiny hair

Who doesn’t love trying new hairstyles and hair colours? But it comes at a cost. Sometimes people start losing their hair over time. I always experimented with different hairstyles and ended up losing a lot of my hair, as my mom warned me. While she may have mentioned the repercussions of styling my hair too much, she also suggested a home remedy – pumpkin seed for hair that worked wonders for me. Did you know pumpkin seed oil boosts hair development, strengthens hair strands, and reduces the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone linked to hair loss?

This oil nourishes the scalp, gives the hair more lustre and shine, and shields the hair from environmental damage. Here are the benefits of pumpkin seed oil for hair and how to use it.

How does pumpkin seed oil help you get shiny hair?

Pumpkin seed oil contributes to strong and shiny hair through its rich composition of essential fatty acids, vitamins such as A, E, K, minerals (including zinc and magnesium), and antioxidants. These components work together to nourish the scalp and hair follicles, promoting hair growth.

“The anti-inflammatory qualities of the oil help in calming the scalp and battling diseases such as psoriasis and dandruff that can impair the quality of hair. Plus, its ability to block DHT (dihydrotestosterone) supports in preventing hormonally induced hair loss, a common cause of thinning hair. Regular application can enhance hair texture, add shine, and encourage the growth of thicker and more resilient hair strands, says Ayurvedic physician, Dr Arathi Vasudeva.

Benefits of pumpkin seed oil for hair

Here are some of the benefits of this natural oil for hair, as explained by the expert.

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1. Provides nourishment and improves scalp health

Pumpkin seed oil’s nutritional profile is excellent for scalp nourishment. It moisturises the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness, and its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin conditions.

2. Promotes hair growth

By inhibiting DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss, and nourishing hair follicles, pumpkin seed oil can stimulate hair growth, especially beneficial in cases of pattern alopecia.

3. Enhances hair appearance

The oil adds shine and luster to hair, making it appear healthier and more vibrant. Its fatty acids help in smoothing the hair cuticles, contributing to a sleek and shiny appearance.

4. Strengthens hair

Minerals such as zinc and magnesium are crucial for hair protein synthesis and can help in strengthening hair strands, reducing breakage, and promoting overall hair resilience.

5. Natural hair colour enhancement

This oil can subtly enhance hair colour, adding depth and richness to the natural hair tone, thanks to its rich nutrient content.

Also Read: Pumpkin seeds have wonderful benefits for hair growth!

Best home remedy hair packs with pumpkin seed oil

Here are some of the best and most effective home remedies for using pumpkin seed oils for hair growth.

1. Nourishing mask with castor and coconut oils

Ingredients:

• Pumpkin seed oil
• Castor oil
• Coconut oil

Process:

• Combine pumpkin seed oil with castor and coconut oils for a deeply moisturising pre-shampoo treatment that promotes hair strength and growth.

Also Read: Home remedy for hair growth: Mix castor oil with coconut oil

2. Scalp treatment mask

Ingredients:

• Pumpkin seed oil
• Aloe vera gel

Process:

• Mix pumpkin seed oil with aloe vera gel for a soothing scalp mask. This can help in reducing scalp inflammation and nourishing the hair roots.

3. Hair growth mask

Ingredients:

• Pumpkin seed oil
• Peppermint oil

Process:

• Blend pumpkin seed oil with peppermint oil and massage into the scalp. The peppermint oil can stimulate circulation, enhancing the growth effects of pumpkin seed oil.

4. Conditioning spray

Ingredients:

• Pumpkin seed oil
• Water
• Lavender oil

Process:

• Dilute pumpkin seed oil in water and add a few drops of lavender oil. Use as a leave-in conditioning spray for daily hydration and shine.

Are there any side effects of using pumpkin seed oil for hair?

While it is generally safe to use pumpkin seed oil, it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or rash. It’s essential to perform a patch test before widespread use.

Incorporating pumpkin seed oil into your hair care routine requires patience and consistency. Its natural components offer a holistic approach to improving hair health, contributing to stronger, shinier, and healthier hair over time.