Almond Oil and healthy hair

As I set out this past summer seeking natural products to nourish and strengthen my hair, several things dawned on me.  One was: what products have been around for ages that are still available today? And, what group of women is known for hair that is long and healthy?  My thought behind this was to probe around and use some of the same hair products that these women used.  The answer to these two questions lead me into an East Indian grocery store.

As I entered, I was greeted by the strong and pungent smell of spices.  It nearly chased me back out of the store.  My throat actually was burnng.  But, I braved the aroma and  trudged forward in search of hair care products.  It was sooo funny, because I wasn't quite sure what I was looking for.  After turning some more corners and walking through aisles of fresh vegetables, I ended my search. Victorious, I stood in front of several rows of shelves that contained a number of hair oils that are used by Indian women.  What caught my eye first was almond oil. (I'll write about some of the others in future posts).

Almond oil

Almond oil is extracted from almond kernels and has been used for centuries by women from Africa and India.  This healthful oil is rich in vitamin D and E.  It is also rich in magnesium and calcium.  The oil is truly a nutrient recipe for hair growth and  health. 

Almond oil's special benefits for the hair include:

Strengthening the hair cuticle
Makes hair stronger and thicker
Controls falling

Almond oil can be used in your favorite hair cream.  Just place a few drops in the cream and stir.  You will experience the same benefits.

Or, you can directly place a few drops in  your hand, depending upon your hair length, and massage into hair and scalp.  Apply a plastic cap and leave on for thirty minutes and wash out.

Almond oil and your skin

Users of almond oil for the hair will be quite please to learn that it provides wonderful benefits to the skin:

Improves complexion
Deep moisturizing
Delay aging
Lightens dark circles
relieves dry and itching skin

For extra health benefits, eat some almonds as well for overall health.

A Personal Experience

Since July, 2010 I have been using almond oil on my hair.  The claims are right on. 

As I mentioned previously, I wear a lot of braids.  I applied the almond oil every other day to the braids for approximately two and one half to three months.  When I removed the braids, I didn't shed hair as much as normal!  My hair felt a little dry though, but that could be due to the fact that I don't drink enough water.  But overall, I was very impressed.

I welcome anyone who is familiar with almond oil to leave a comment.  If you have questions, feel free to ask.  I love to share my experiences.

Source:

"Benefits of Almond Oil" http://www.indiaparenting.com/