Having thick and long natural hair is not rocket science. It is a personal decision that is also dependent on one’s habit. It is usually better to go the natural home remedies route using rice water, onion juice, aloe vera among others. This is because hair products made of chemicals tend to damage hair more.
Let’s see the full list below:
1. Rice water
Rice water contains inositol an ingredient that has protective and beautifying effects on hair. (2) Rice is also packed with Vitamins and minerals that are required for hair growth such as Vitamins B & E, Amino Acids and antioxidants.
Benefits of rice water include: (i) boosting hair growth (ii) detangling hair (iii) smoothening the hair cuticles and adding shine and (iv) strengthens the hair when used correctly.
2. Onion Juice
Onions are packed with nutrients such as vitamins, fibre and minerals such as potassium. Onions are a wonderful source of antioxidants which makes it an excellent choice for hair growth. Antioxidants also help reverse premature graying and may delay the graying of hair.
Onions are rich in Sulphur which helps in the strengthening hair and in regeneration of hair follicles. Sulphur also helps improve blood circulation.
Onion juice can be mixed together with other hair care oils or products including honey, coconut oil or olive oil.
3. Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is known for its healing properties hence popularly known as ‘The Healing Clay’. When it comes to hair, this clay also has numerous benefits. It has a moisturizing effect and can be used to draw out excess oil and dirt from the hair.
Bentonite clay is especially good for low porosity hair because it contains negatively charged ions which get attracted to the positive ions present in low porosity hair. This therefore means the excess positive ions will be neutralized and balanced off hence reducing frizz
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar contains acetic acid. It, therefore, helps to lower hair PH and will leave your alkaline dull, brittle hair healthy and more balanced.
Apple Cider Vinegar is rich in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals which contribute to the overall health of the hair.
Apple Cider Vinegar contains alpha-hydroxy acid which helps exfoliate the scalp. It is known to have antimicrobial properties which help in the control of bacterial or fungi growth. For this reason, Apple Cider Vinegar can solve problems such as itchiness and dandruff.
5. Aloe vera
Aloe Vera plant is renowned for its healing properties. It also has numerous benefits on hair. The raw gel can be used on hair to strengthen your hair and improve the health of your scalp.
Various studies have shown that Aloe Vera is a novel hair treatment effective in the acceleration of hair growth. Aloe Vera improves blood circulation on the scalp hence promoting hair growth. It is a good hair cleanser that also prevents hair loss and damage.
7. Honey masks
Honey’s wound healing abilities helps to promote growth of damaged cells on the scalp. This is useful in promoting hair growth. Honey also contains nutrients that are useful in hair regeneration. Incorporating honey into your hair routine will protect your hair from breakage because honey contains some small percentage of proteins.
8. Egg masks
Eggs are packed with proteins and other essential nutrients required for hair growth. In this article where I have talked about the best foods to add to your diet to promote hair growth, you will notice eggs are on the list.
There are several ways to use eggs to nourish your hair. The most popular way to use eggs is to make conditioning masks using eggs as a key ingredient.
9. Lemon
Lemon juice contains vitamin C a nutrient that helps to strengthen hair. Lemon juice is also effective in stimulating hair growth and reverting hair loss.
Lemon juice can be used as hair rinse to provide the shimmery look or can be mixed with an essential oil for direct application into the scalp. Research has found lemon juice effective in dealing with dandruff.