Throughout history and in various cultures, onions have been used to strengthen hair, stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health, especially in Ayurvedic medicine and in some traditional Middle Eastern practices. It seems that its main secret lies in its chemical components, such as sulphur, minerals such as iron and potassium, its high levels of folic acid and even the important free radical-fighting antioxidant quercetin.
Onions have always been prized for their nutrients and for their ability to fight scalp infections, which in medieval Europe were believed to be a common cause of hair loss. It was used in infusions and poultices applied directly to the scalp to strengthen the hair and improve its lustre and texture. Even in American and Asian folk medicine, similar qualities were attributed to it and it was used in various preparations to keep hair healthy and strong.
Its properties and benefits for our hair
The onion is a treasure trove of chemical compounds, blending minerals, vitamins and organic compounds that may explain its popularity in hair care. One of the most prominent is sulphur, known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, an essential component of keratin, the key protein that forms hair. Its presence in onions could help strengthen hair and prevent hair loss.
It is also rich in vitamins C, B6, iron, potassium and folic acid, essential nutrients for maintaining healthy hair and scalp, promoting strong growth and helping to prevent problems such as dryness and dandruff. Antioxidants such as quercetin, found in onions, protect against free radical damage, which is particularly useful for preventing premature hair ageing and maintaining hair vitality.
“Its sulphur content strengthens and thickens hair while potentially reducing hair loss. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties keep it free of infections and dandruff, and we could add that it stimulates growth by improving blood circulation, and its antioxidants protect the scalp and hair strands from environmental damage,” says María García, head of customer experience at Dalire.
Although home remedies are often based on tradition, it is scientific research that can provide a clear and objective picture. Several studies in recent years have analysed the potential of onion juice to stimulate hair growth, concluding that it actually increases hair growth significantly, especially in participants who applied it to the scalp, which the researchers attributed to the presence of sulphur in contact with the hair follicles. In terms of antimicrobial properties, their findings are very interesting for treating certain conditions such as dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis, where control of micro-organisms on the scalp can be a crucial aspect of treatment.
To choose and apply an onion shampoo correctly, first check the ingredients and see that it contains onion extract or onion juice (Allium Cepa (Onion) Bulb Extract): “Another important aspect is that it must be present in an effective concentration, i.e. among the first five ingredients. You should also pay attention to the aggressive chemicals, choosing only those free of sulphates, parabens and silicones, and check the nutritional complements that are usually included, such as burdock, grapefruit, natural oils, proteins, vitamins and antioxidants that nourish and strengthen the hair”, says María García.
The professional recommends a single weekly application, which is what they consider sufficient, and over several weeks to be able to observe the results afterwards: “In addition, for many people the smell can be unpleasant, so we recommend adding a few drops of lavender or mint essential oil to control it. If we want to enhance the effects of our onion shampoo, we can mix it with ingredients such as honey or coconut oil, which are also beneficial for the hair. Finally, it is also necessary that once applied, and if we have prepared it at home by crushing and liquefying fresh onions, we leave it to act for approximately 15-30 minutes. If it is purchased, a conventional rinse after a few minutes on the hair is sufficient”.
Sigue toda la información de HIGHXTAR desde Facebook, Twitter o Instagram