Kalonji seeds have been used for many years as flavouring agents in foods such as bread, vegetables, fish, and dal tadka. It is known to have antihistamine and antifungal properties. Not only this, but these black seeds also help to control cholesterol and are beneficial in weight loss. Kalonji, also known as nigella seeds or onion seeds, also regulates high blood sugar. But did you know that they are an excellent ingredient for hair health too? Yes! The benefits of kalonji seeds can be written in a never-ending book!
Health Shots got in touch with Dr Anshika Kukreja, dermatologist and cosmetologist, who listed some awesome benefits of kalonji seeds.
Here are 5 superb benefits of kalonji seeds for hair:
- It helps neutralize effects of free radicals leading to improved hair quality.
- In case of rough, frizzy, and dry hair, kalonji oil can be used as it helps seal moisture in hair shafts.
- Kalonji masks may help decrease dandruff as it has antifungal properties.
- Massaging your scalp with kalonji oil can provide relief from scalp irritation and itching due to its anti-inflammatory action.
- Regular use of black seeds in hair care can help prevent hair loss thus, enhancing the hair volume.
While these benefits are awesome on their own, we came across a viral reel that claimed kalonji seeds can help you reverse your grey hair to black. Here’s the reel we’re talking about:
Can kalonji darken grey hair?
We asked Dr Kukreja to shed some light on the same.
“With age, our hair follicles start losing colour cells in the hair called melanin that can cause greying of hair. Some studies have revealed that kalonji oil prevents melanin loss and keeps hair black for an extended period of time and prevents premature greying. In my opinion, kalonji seeds might help with preventing premature greying and slowing down the process of hair ageing. However, its role in reversing grey hair is still in question,” says Dr Kukreja, who is also a hair transplant surgeon.
This reveals that reversing grey hair is not possible in every individual. But preventing it or delaying the greying can be done if we take proper care of our locks.
Does using kalonji seed have any harmful effect on hair?
Dr Kukreja warns, “Kalonji seed oil should not be used alone and in excess quantities. It should always be combined with some other hair oil like olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil. However, mixing black seeds oil in coconut oil should be avoided for people suffering from dandruff. Always apply it to the roots as well as the hair shaft.”
“Excess of anything can be harmful. So, its application should not exceed once or twice a week to reap the benefits of kalonji. In case of irritation or any allergic reaction, one should stop applying hair care DIYs made with it and consult a dermatologist,” she adds.