Fenugreek for hair growth: Benefits and uses

Monsoon is here, and so are the high humidity levels that can make our scalp more prone to fungal and bacterial infections. This is probably why I have been noticing hair loss while combing or washing my hair. Since I was worried about losing hundreds of strands of hair, I asked my mom for help. She told me to keep calm and use methi or fenugreek seeds. I knew that fenugreek seeds are used as a flavouring in curries, but I wasn’t sure about using it as a home remedy for hair loss. Still, I tried fenugreek for hair growth, and it worked for me!

What is fenugreek?

Fenugreek is a herb widely found in Asia, the Mediterranean region and southern Europe. It has medicinal properties that may help with cholesterol, and diabetes, says Ayurvedic expert Dimple Jangda. It is a bitter herb, and the seeds are often used for culinary purpose.

How does fenugreek help with hair growth?

During a 2006 study published in Kosmetische Medizin, fenugreek seeds containing food supplements were found to be a successful treatment of low to moderate hair loss in women and men. Fenugreek seeds improve blood circulation to the scalp, so that helps hair roots in receiving nutrients and oxygen supply. This helps promote hair growth and combats hair loss, says Jangda.

Methi is also a rich source of protein and lecithin which help strengthen hair roots, reduce breakage and hair fall. A hundred grams of fenugreek seeds have 23 grams of protein, as per the US Department of Agriculture.

It also helps in balancing the scalp pH level, and controls the oil production on the scalp. This helps prevent issues like dandruff, excessive oiliness which can otherwise cause hair fall and prevent hair growth.

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How to use fenugreek for hair growth?

These are some easy ways to include fenugreek seeds in your hair care regime:

1. Fenugreek seed paste

• Soak two teaspoons of fenugreek seeds in water, and leave it overnight.
• Next morning, blend it till you get a smooth paste.

You can directly apply this paste to your scalp and leave it for 20 to 30 minutes, and then rinse with lukewarm water. This helps condition the hair, reduces dandruff and stimulates hair growth, says the expert.

2. Fenugreek hair mask

• Soak 2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds overnight, and next morning blend and make a smooth paste.
• Add 2 teaspoons of yogurt, 1 teaspoon of honey to this and mix well.

Apply this on your scalp and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water after. This fenugreek hair mask helps strengthen hair follicles and adds shine to your hair.

3. Fenugreek and coconut oil

• Take ½ cup of coconut oil, add 2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds to it and boil well.
• Let it cool down, then strain it and apply on the scalp.
• Wash your hair after an hour.

This hair oil will help nourish the scalp, reduce hair fall, and promote hair growth.

4. Fenugreek seed water

• Mix 2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds with 2 cups of water.
• Boil it well for 10 minutes and then let it cool.
• Strain the water and use it as a final rinse after washing hair.

Fenugreek seed water acts as a conditioner, improving hair strength and shine, and reducing dandruff on the scalp, says the expert.

5. Fenugreek and aloe vera gel

• Mix 2 teaspoons of fenugreek powder with 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel to make a smooth paste.
• Apply this on your scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water.

This hair mask helps sooth the scalp, reduces irritation and promotes healthy hair growth.

You can also include fenugreek seeds in your diet to improve hair growth. All you have to do is soak 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Next morning, boil the same water with seeds, and bring to half, filter and drink the water. You can also add fenugreek seeds to your dishes like sambhar and daal, to improve digestion, and to reduce cholesterol, says Jangda.

What are the side effects of fenugreek seeds?

Fenugreek seeds are mostly safe unless you have a specific allergy to them. But you may have issues like:

• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Gas
• Rash
• Itching
• Redness or swelling

Fenugreek seeds can also lower blood sugar levels. So those who have hypoglycemia symptoms should avoid consuming them. Pregnant women should also avoid consuming excess fenugreek seeds, as they can cause uterine contractions, says the expert.

Fenugreek seeds may help in promoting hair growth. You can use them to make hair masks or mix them with hair oil to fight hair loss.