Know the Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds for Hair Growth

Hair loss can be quite heartbreaking. You can attribute hair loss to your hairstyle, stress, or your diet. Whatever the cause, no one really celebrates hair loss. So when I started noticing that my hair was losing volume, I opted for an anti-hair loss shampoo. My mom offered me some help and suggested I go for pumpkin seeds for hair growth. It’s not just mommy, but science also claims that pumpkin seeds can help with hair growth. According to a 2019 study published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, topical application of pumpkin seed oil, which is composed primarily of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, promoted hair growth.

Gurugram-based dermatologist and cosmetologist Dr. Urvi Panchal points out that when it comes to home remedies for maintaining healthy hair, pumpkin seeds are often overlooked. These little powerhouses are packed with essential nutrients and vitamins that can promote hair growth, fight hair loss, and improve overall hair health.

Pumpkin seeds for hair

Pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamins A, B and C as well as micronutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, iron and copper, explains the expert. Zinc, an essential mineral found in pumpkin seeds, plays a crucial role in hair growth and repair. It helps regulate hormone levels, promotes cell division and supports protein synthesis. These processes are essential for the development of new hair follicles. Including pumpkin seeds in your diet means having zinc, which facilitates healthier and stronger hair growth. Here are some benefits of pumpkin seeds for hair:

1. Pumpkin seeds strengthen hair structure

Omega-3 fatty acids found in pumpkin seeds are beneficial in strengthening the hair shaft and improving hair structure. These fatty acids moisturize the scalp, preventing dryness and irritation. By nourishing hair follicles, pumpkin seeds contribute to stronger, more resilient hair strands, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends, the expert tells Health Shots.

2. Pumpkin seeds fight hair loss

The phytochemicals in pumpkin seeds help inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone known to contribute to hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, pumpkin seeds can help slow hair loss and preserve existing hair follicles.

3. Pumpkin seeds improve scalp health

You need a healthy scalp for good hair growth. Pumpkin seeds are packed with antioxidants such as vitamin E, which protect the scalp from oxidative stress and maintain scalp health, Dr. Panchal says. Eating pumpkin seeds can help fight scalp inflammation and promote optimal conditions for hair growth.

Pumpkin seeds in the hair care routine

You can still eat pumpkin seeds as a tasty and healthy snack or add them to your meals.

There are also other ways to enjoy the benefits of pumpkin seeds!

1. Pumpkin seed oil

You can find pumpkin seed oil as an ingredient in various hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks, or use it directly on the scalp for a deep conditioning treatment.

2. Pumpkin Seed Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/2 cup of yogurt

Method

• Start by grinding the pumpkin seeds in a blender until you get a fine powder.

• Mix it with yoghurt and form a smooth paste.
• Add the honey and coconut oil to the batter and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
• Apply the hair mask mixture to dry or damp hair, starting from the roots to the ends.
• Gently massage the mask into your scalp, making sure all of your strands are coated.
• Leave the hair mask on for about 30 minutes to an hour. You can cover your hair with a shower cap to make it more effective.
• Rinse out the mask with lukewarm water, followed by shampoo and conditioner.

Obviously, pumpkin seeds offer a natural and effective solution to the problem of hair loss. Pumpkin seeds are therefore an interesting addition to a hair care routine.