Know the benefits of pumpkin seeds for hair growth

A receding hairline can be quite heartbreaking. You can blame your hairstyle, stress or diet for hair loss. Regardless of the cause, no one really celebrates hair loss. So when I noticed that my hair was losing its volume, I switched to anti-hair loss shampoo. My mother offered help and suggested I go for pumpkin seeds for hair growth. It’s not just mom, but science also says pumpkin seeds can help with hair growth. According to a 2019 study published by the US National Library of Medicine, topical application of pumpkin seed oil, which consists mainly of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, showed promotion of hair growth.

Dr. Urvi Panchal, a dermatologist and cosmetologist based in Gurugram, 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, combat hair loss and improve overall hair health.

Pumpkin seeds for her

Pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamins A, B and C, along with micronutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron and copper, says 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 you have zinc, so it facilitates healthier and stronger hair growth. Here are some benefits of pumpkin seeds for hair:

1. Pumpkin seeds strengthen the hair structure

The omega-3 fatty acids in pumpkin seeds are beneficial for strengthening the hair shaft and improving hair structure. These fatty acids hydrate the scalp and prevent 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 prevent hair loss

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

3. Pumpkin seeds promote scalp health

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

Pumpkin seeds in hair care routine

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

There are other ways to reap the benefits of pumpkin seeds too!

1. Pumpkin seed oil

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

2. Hair mask with pumpkin seeds

Ingredients

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

Method

• Start by grinding the pumpkin seeds in a blender into a fine powder.

• Mix it with yogurt and form a smooth paste.
• Add honey and coconut oil to the paste and mix well to combine all the ingredients well.
• Apply the hair mask mixture to dry or damp hair, starting at the roots and working towards the ends.
• Gently massage the mask into your scalp, making sure all your strands are covered.
• Let the hair mask work for about 30 minutes to an hour. You can cover your hair with a shower cap so that it is more effective.
• Rinse off the mask with lukewarm water, followed by shampoo and conditioner.

It is clear that pumpkin seeds provide a natural and effective solution to the problem of hair loss. So in principle, pumpkin seeds are worthwhile as an addition to a hair care routine.