Benefits and Uses of Flaxseed for Hair

Flaxseed is a small, oily seed obtained from a blue- and yellow-flowered variety of the flax plant, which is more commonly seen between June and August. Thanks to its omega-3 oil, it is one of the ingredients traditionally used in hair care. Flaxseed oil is said to have beneficial effects on hair when used regularly. Along with these traditional uses, the nutritional value of flaxseed in the kitchen and proper storage conditions are covered below. Maintaining hair moisture balance Like other parts of the body, hair needs a certain moisture balance; frequent blow-drying, using curling irons, and often relying on styling products such as gel or hairspray can disrupt hair's natural moisture balance and lead to breakage and shedding. The traditional claim is that flaxseed oil helps maintain this balance. The traditional way to use flaxseed oil is to massage it into the hair 1–2 times a week, from the roots to the ends, before bathing. After application, wrapping the hair in a towel and waiting 30-40 minutes helps the oil penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. Repairing and moisturizing properties Hair that is frequently processed wears down over time, loses its moisture balance, and begins to dry out; this leads to hair damage. Regular use of flaxseed oil is said to reduce this damage because of its repairing and moisturizing properties. Nutrition and choosing the right oils also play an important role in maintaining hair health, alongside external hair care; flaxseed can be used both as a food and as a hair treatment. Nourishing hair strands and adding shine Fine hair may be more prone to early breakage and shedding; regular care is said to reduce this problem. When used as recommended by hair care professionals, flaxseed is said to help strengthen fine hair. Flaxseed care is also a traditional option for people who want to add shine to dull, limp-looking hair; the effect is said to become more noticeable with regular use of this treatment one time weekly before bathing. Storage conditions Because of its high oil content, flaxseed oil is sensitive to light and heat; it is recommended to store it in a dark-colored, airtight bottle in a cool, dark cabinet. Refrigerating the opened bottle further extends its shelf life. Whole flaxseeds can be stored for a few months at room temperature in an airtight container; since ground flaxseed turns rancid much faster, it is recommended to grind it on the day it will be used. Flaxseed in the kitchen Flaxseed is a food used in the kitchen as well as in hair care; it can be ground and added to yogurt, muesli, or bread dough. Thanks to its omega-3 fatty acid content, it is considered a food that can be easily added to the daily diet. It is recommended to choose moderate amounts, such as 1-2 tablespoons per day, when consuming flaxseed, because larger amounts can cause bloating and diarrhea; drinking plenty of water with it also aids digestion. Don't eat raw or unripe flaxseed, and if you take blood thinners, talk with your doctor before using flaxseed or flaxseed oil. Ground flaxseed can also be added to salads or smoothies and included in the daily diet.