Using onion juice on your scalp may seem like a mere Internet fad, but its effectiveness as a hair-growing agent has been discussed by science and pop culture alike. The goodness of the bulbs abounds when you seep the juice out and massage it onto your scalp to build up yopur follicular strength.
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While everyone loves a glossy, voluminous mane, it can prove to be a challenge with all the chemical-heavy products on the market. However, careful inclusion of onion juice into your hair care regimen in combination with your prescribed treatment can help you achieve the same goal without damage.
Dr Bharti Magoo, aesthetician and an anti-ageing physician explains, “Drinking onion juice or eating raw onions does not have the same effect as applying the juice on your scalp, as this causes direct sulphur absorption from the vegetable. You can mix lemon juice or rose water or any essential oil to get rid of the pungent smell of the juice.”
The potion functions as a booster for hair growth while the sulphur content minimises hair thinning and breakage. “Besides sulphur, onions contain antioxidants like quercetin, Vitamin C, folates-B9, potassium and fibres called fructans that carry anti-inflammatory properties. This takes care of dandruff, psoriasis and other scalp conditions.” Dr Magoo shares, further warning, “Red onions even contain antioxidants like anthocyanins. But you should be careful while using concentrated onion juice or oil as they are eye irritants owing to high sulphur content.”
Hair growth and texture depend on a host of factors including genetics and your personal biology, but consistent use of certain home recipes can bring about healthy follicular results. “Applying onion juice to the hair and scalp improves blood supply to hair follicles, improving hair growth,” says Dr. Pallavi Sule, dermatologist and aesthetic physician. “The juice of the onion is also believed to retard premature greying of hair as it stimulates the enzyme catalase production at the hair follicles,” she adds.
Shilpi Madan for Deccan Chronicle