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Hair Oils (Neeli, Bhringraj, Amla)

Oils infused with Ayurvedic herbs like bhringraj, amla, brahmi to nourish hair, prevent greying, and promote calmness.

History

Oiling the hair is a weekly ritual in many Indian homes, handed from grandmothers to daughters and sons. Ayurveda describes herbal oils built on sesame or coconut oil: bhringraj (Eclipta alba) is called the king of hair herbs, amla (Indian gooseberry) is rich in vitamin C, brahmi is used for calm, and neeli (Indigofera) features in the classic neelibhringadi oil. Warm scalp massage was also valued as a way to relax the mind.

Hair Oils (Neeli, Bhringraj, Amla)

Steps / Procedure

  1. Warm a small amount of the herbal oil gently in a bowl placed in hot water. Do not overheat it.
  2. Part the hair into sections and apply the oil to the scalp with your fingertips.
  3. Massage in slow circles for 5 to 10 minutes.
  4. Work the remaining oil through the lengths of the hair.
  5. Leave it for one hour or overnight, then wash with a mild shampoo or a herbal cleanser such as shikakai.

Benefits

Nourishes the scalp and hair, reduces dryness and breakage, and leaves hair soft and shiny. The massage itself relaxes the scalp and mind.

Tips / Precautions

Patch test any new oil. Do not apply very hot oil. Rinse thoroughly, because leftover oil attracts dust. If you have dandruff, hair loss or scalp conditions, ask a doctor before relying on home oils.

General information for cultural interest, not medical advice. Check with a doctor before starting anything new, especially if you have a health condition.