Is Amla Oil Bad for Natural Hair? 6 Benefits

With a high concentration of healthy fatty acids, as well as flavonoids, antioxidants, vitamins, and other active compounds, amla oil has several benefits when used on hair:

1. Hair growth: The phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals found in amla promote healthy hair growth by increasing scalp circulation. Vitamin C in amla is responsible for the production of collagen, which helps stimulate hair growth, both in length and volume. Apply warm oil to the scalp for 15 minutes before washing it off.
2. Prevent hair loss: According to some studies, amla oil is a potent inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase. This is especially important for those experiencing hormonal hair losses due to polycystic ovarian syndrome or thyroid imbalances.
3. Treats dandruff: Studies have shown that the active ingredients in amla hair oil have anti-dandruff, antibacterial, and purifying properties. This oil is particularly beneficial for dry scalp and dermatitis because it deeply moisturizes the scalp, reduces inflammation, and relieves itching.
4. Moisturizes hair: Amla can nourish, strengthen, and condition hair, making it shiny. Amla hair oil has a moisture content of up to 81.%. Because amla oil acts as a conditioner, those with dry hair may benefit.
5. Improves pigmentation: Amla is commonly found in hair coloring products because it helps fight against discoloration. It may also help prevent premature graying.
6. Antifungal and antimicrobial: Because amla oil has antifungal properties, it can kill dermatophytes, which are the main cause of hair loss. Antimicrobial properties also eliminate hair odor and bacteria.

Amla has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over a thousand years. It is believed to have the following health benefits:

• Skin health: Gives the skin a healthy glow and helps prevent skin infections.
• Eye health: Reduces the risk of cataracts and protects the retina from oxidative stress, due to vitamin A and antioxidant content.
• Lowers bad cholesterol: Lowers low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) levels in the blood, due to high concentrations of calcium, iron, anthocyanin, potassium, and flavonoids.
• Boosts immunity: High in vitamin C and helps the body fight infections, such as the common cold and flu. 
• Digestive health: Antibacterial properties help prevent or heal gastrointestinal infections.
• Controls blood sugar: Contains the mineral chromium which regulates carb metabolism and makes the body more responsive to insulin.

Studies on amla are underway to determine if it can be used to make medications to lower blood pressure and prevent premature aging.

While there are many potential benefits of using amla oil on your hair, it’s important to understand that the majority of amla research is in the preliminary stage and has not yet been approved by the FDA. 

Hormonal levels, stress, and diet play a major role in hair health. Consult a dermatologist if you have severe hair loss or greying.