According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 80 million men and women in America suffer from hair loss. Hair fall is a universal problem. To solve these issues, we often choose home remedies or natural ingredients. One such natural ingredient is onion, which we all have in our kitchens.
We have all heard about onion juice for hair care. But does onion juice really help with hair growth and reduce hair fall? Although there isn’t much research to definitively answer this question. However, some studies have revealed that the components of onions help with hair growth. It also addresses dandruff problems and prevents hair loss.
Benefits of onion juice for hair
Dietary Sulfur
Onions contain a large amount of dietary sulfur, a component of amino acids found in protein. Sulfur-rich proteins are important for hair growth. Using onion juice on hair and the scalp makes hair strong and thick. It also prevents hair fall and promotes hair growth.
Sulfur from onions helps in collagen production, which promotes healthy scalp cells and hair growth.
Anti-bacterial Properties
Onion has anti-bacterial properties that help fight various scalp infections. Scalp infections such as dandruff, itching, rashes, and eczema contribute to hair loss and inhibit new hair growth. Regular use of onion juice keeps the scalp infection-free and healthy. Which strengthens hair follicles.
Antioxidants
Onion contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and catalase. These antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which contribute to the aging process. Free radicals slow down functions in our body and can lead to the destruction of hair follicles. It causes permanent baldness.
An antioxidant compound called catalase helps reduce hydrogen peroxide at the hair roots. Hydrogen peroxide can turn hair gray and white.
Regular use of onion juice on the scalp reduces free radicals and hydrogen peroxide levels. It keeps hair follicles healthy, reduces hair fall, prevents graying, and gives thick, shiny black hair.
Presence of Micronutrients
Onion juice contains various micronutrients that nourish and moisturize dry, brittle hair. It prevents dry hair from breaking, weakening, and falling out.
Increase Blood Circulation
Onion can increase blood circulation in our body. Its anti-inflammatory properties enhance blood supply to the hair roots. Applying onion juice on the scalp increases the blood supply to the hair follicles, which improves hair growth.
However, onion juice is not effective in preventing hair loss due to age, hormones, and disorders.
Side Effects of Onion Juice
Musty Smell
We already know that onion contains sulfur or sulfuric acid, which gives it a strong smell and astringency. If onion juice is used on hair, its strong smell will linger. It can also cause eye irritation and watery eyes.
However, you can mix two spoons of onion juice with one spoon of lemon juice or vinegar (in this ratio). After use, you can wash your hair with a mildly scented shampoo.
Allergy
Onion is a common allergen. It is not safe for people with onion allergies to consume it or use its juice. It can cause allergic symptoms such as skin and eye redness, itching, burning sensations, and difficulty breathing. Even people without an allergy can experience skin reactions from onion juice.
So, check for allergic reactions before applying it to your scalp. First, apply a small amount of the juice on a small patch of hair or behind the ear. If you don’t experience any reaction after waiting two to three minutes, it is likely safe for you to use.
My personal experience
My hair loss problem was long-lasting and there were signs of baldness. My scalp used to get dandruff in the winter, which increased the amount of hair fall. After learning about onion juice, I started using it alongside other measures. I used this juice at least two days a week by mixing lemon juice. I gently apply it to the scalp and wash it off after an hour using a natural, paraben-free shampoo.
I found it very effective in getting rid of dandruff. Regular use of this has made my scalp completely dandruff-free. Additionally, I found onion juice effective in stopping hair fall. But it needs to be used regularly to see consistent results.