How To Make Amla Hair Oil + Benefits
For healthier, thicker, and shinier hair - try amla hair oil.
November 21, 2022 6 minutes readIn This Post
For centuries, Amla oil has been widely used for its numerous benefits for skin and general health. In addition, this wonder oil, usually derived from Amla fruit, is attributed to hair cell regeneration and promotion of hair growth when used topically.
Today, with the increasing preference of consumers towards natural ingredients, Amla oil remains a sought-after natural hair remedy, with the ingredient in demand for the preparation of several hair products ranging from shampoos, conditioners, hair oils, hair masks, etc. So it's safe to say that Amla has made its dent not only healthcare-wise but beauty-wise also.
In this article, we'll focus on the fantastic benefits Amla oil offers for hair care, and provide a quick guide and recipes on how to make your organic Amla oil in the comfort of your home!
What Is Amla Oil?
Amla oil is extracted from the fruit of the Amla tree, commonly known as Indian gooseberry (Emblica Officinalis). Despite its small appearance, this super fruit is said to be one of the essential traditional plants used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, also known as Ayurveda.
Amla Oil, in its unrefined form, undoubtedly, possesses the remarkable gifts of the Amla fruit. It possesses powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties widely acclaimed for solutions to various ailments, either used alone or combined with other plants.
The Amla fruit tree was originally native to India, where it is commercially produced. Still, in recent times, it can also be found in other subtropical southern Asian countries.
The Benefits of Amla Oil for Hair
Amla oil is rich in phytonutrients and vitamins, all linked to improving and promoting healthy hair growth. With some proven research to back up its claims, Amla oil is dubbed one of the magical elixirs for hair care!
Here's a look at several hair benefits of Amla oil on hair:
#1: Amla Oil Is Rich in Vitamin C.
Vitamin C deficiency is one of the well-known factors that may contribute to dry, brittle hair and split ends. Vitamin C is arguably one of the best ingredients to help boost scalp health. It promotes collagen, which in turn fosters hair growth, strengthens hair, and increases cell regeneration on the scalp.
It also improves hair health by fighting off damage-causing free radicals. Luckily, after the barbados cherry, the Amla fruit is noted to be the second richest natural source of vitamin C, with the Amla oil being equally rich in antioxidants needed for overall haircare.
#2: Amla Oil Helps Relieve Dandruff and Dry, Itchy Scalp.
Coupled with its moisturizing benefits when applied on the scalp, studies suggest that Amla oil also contains antifungal and antiviral properties. Therefore, the oil acts as a natural dandruff remedy by keeping the scalp sufficiently nourished and clean to decrease the chances of dandruff buildup.
#3: Amla Oil Acts as a Hair Conditioner.
Using natural hair oils as conditioners can be a great addition to your hair care regimen. Amla oil works as a perfect natural conditioner for all hair types. It helps soften hair, replenish moisture lost from washing and heat styling, and keep hair hydrated and soft.
In addition, Amla oil, rich in super beneficial vitamins and minerals, also helps in nourishing the hair to reveal shinier, thicker, and more lustrous hair strands without split ends. It adds a well-known sparkle you wouldn't want to miss out on when used consistently as a hair mask or conditioner.
#4: Amla Oil Is Effective In Reducing Hair Loss.
Amla oil extract was shown to be the second most potent inhibitor of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that can lead to hair loss and baldness. Frequent use of Amla oil helps to strengthen hair, which leads to less shedding.
In addition, massaging Amla oil onto the scalp boosts blood circulation, promoting new hair growth over time. Alternatively, you can warm it before applying it to seep in and help strengthen hair follicles.
#5: Amla Oil Prevents Premature Pigment Loss From Hair.
Another benefit of the berry-derived oil is its major help in reducing premature hair pigment loss. As aging occurs, the hair follicles tend to produce less color. However, some people are likely to face premature greying of hair due to various factors such as stress, nutritional deficiencies, environmental factors, etc.
Highly rich in vitamin C, tannins, ellagic and gallic acid, Amla oil can help reduce hair pigment loss and maintain its rich color. So, we could say that it acts as a natural hair dye by boosting melanin production in hair follicles.
How to Make Amla Oil at Home
Knowing how to make your Amla oil allows you to choose its potency and oil base. In addition, it equally helps you enjoy the goodness of the oil in its natural state, free from fragrances, dyes, and other additives. Not to forget the bonus of making it in the comfort of your home!
There are many methods by which Amla oil can be made. It can be obtained from the fruit itself, whether in its fresh, dried, or powdered form.
But here's a look at effective DIY recipes for Amla oil you can easily try out!
Making Amla Oil Using Fresh Amla Fruits: Recipe
Amla oil, extracted from the fruit itself, 100% guarantees its effectiveness. If you do manage to get your hands on fresh Amla fruits (dried Amla fruits will also work), here's a simple recipe for you!
You'll need:
- 3 to 4 pieces fresh Amla fruits (or 1 cup dried Amla fruits)
- ½ cup coconut oil or carrier oil of your choice
Preparation:
- Wash fresh Amla fruits thoroughly with water.
- Proceed to deseed them, then chop into small-sized pieces or grate them using a grater.
- Put grated or chopped pieces into a mixer or blender without adding water, to make a fine paste.
- Once the paste is ready, extract the blended juice using a strainer.
- Add an equal amount of coconut oil to the extracted juice, place in a pan at the lowest heat, and occasionally stir for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and leave to simmer for 5 minutes. By now, the mixture would have settled down to a darker color.
- Then, strain the oil and place it in a glass jar. And voila, your homemade oil is ready!
Note: When choosing a carrier oil of your choice, be sure to use responsibly sourced organic cold-pressed oils. If you're wondering what carrier oil suits the job, you can select coconut oil, almond oil, or sesame oil. These oils are super beneficial for your hair!
Making Amla Oil Using Amla Powder: Recipe
In most cases, finding fresh Amla fruits (Indian gooseberries) at your local grocery store can be almost impossible, as the Amla tree is only native to subtropical Southeastern Asian countries. But, not to worry, you can always switch to its powdered form.
You'll need:
- 3 tablespoons Amla powder
- 5 tablespoons coconut oil or carrier oil of your choice
Preparation:
- Combine the Amla powder and the carrier oil of your choice in a pan.
- Heat the mixture on the lowest setting and occasionally stir for about 10 minutes to extract nutrients from the Amla powder. Be careful during this step, as it can easily get burnt.
- Turn off the heat when the mixture gets bubbly and starts to emit a scent.
- Then put a lid on the pan to allow the mixture to saturate for about 24 hours.
- After a day, strain the mixture using a sieve and place it in a glass jar to be stored in a cool dark place.
Whatever method you choose to make your Amla oil doesn't make it any less potent; it's simply down to what you prefer. Store your DIY Amla oil in a cool dark place to keep it fresh and retain its potency and nutritional value.
How to Use Amla Oil for Hair
Amla oil, as with most topical hair oils, can be used for various purposes. It checks all the boxes for naturalists seeking an organic, high-quality ingredient for hair care.
Here's a guide on revitalizing your hair with this super oil!
As a Hair Conditioner
Simply apply some Amla oil on your palms, warm it up, and gently apply it onto your hair. Massage the oil into your scalp first to increase the blood circulation in your scalp, which in turn helps to stimulate hair growth. Then apply some oil onto your hair strands as well.
Leave the oil on your hair for about 30 to 40 minutes or an hour. You can cover your hair with a plastic cap, sit back, relax and catch up on your favorite TV show while it does its magic on your hair. Then, wash off with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and call it a night or a morning!
For a more intense treatment, you can apply Amla oil to the scalp and hair strands, and leave it overnight. Do this once every couple of weeks – your hair will love you for it!
As a Hair Mask
Alternatively, you can use Amla powder as a hair mask. Simply mix Amla powder, about 1 tablespoon of the powder should do the trick, with your favorite hair oils or a bit of water till the consistency is right. Stir and apply weekly as a hair mask treatment for shinier and healthier hair.
Note: No likely side effects are associated with using Amla oil on your hair—however, some people with bleached hair claim that Amla oil makes their hair darker. So before using it, test it first by applying it only on one hair stand at the back of your head.
Takeaway...
Amla hair oil is a must-have for anyone looking to get stronger and thicker hair strands. The age-old hair remedy still remains one of the most sought-after ingredients in today's hair care practices for its versatile and effective nature.
Plus, making your own Amla oil isn't that difficult, especially if you're a fan of DIY-ing your own skincare and hair care products. So, if you have been looking for ways to modify your hair care regimen, well, here's a fun one for you. Time to make space for this super oil for your tresses to flourish.
FAQs
Which oil is best for making Amla oil?
To make Amla oil at home, you can mix the pulp of fresh Amla fruits or Amla powder with a carrier oil of your choice. Some good options would be coconut oil, argan oil, almond oil, or pumpkin seed oil.
Is homemade Amla oil good for hair?
Yes, homemade Amla oil, made of Amla fruit or powder mixed with carrier oil, is as good as the ready-made oil you can buy in stores. It will contain all the vitamins and nutrients that are exceptionally beneficial for your hair.
Can you make Amla oil from powder?
Yes, you can make homemade Amla oil using Amla powder mixed with another oil of your choice, like coconut oil. You'll need about 3 tbsp of Amla powder and about 5 tbsp of coconut oil.
Can I use Amla oil every day?
Yes, you can apply Amla oil to your hair daily. Use it as a hair conditioner and apply a small amount of oil to your hair strands and scalp; leave it on for about 30 minutes to an hour, and then wash your hair with a gentle shampoo.