Menopause

Posted on by Flourishing Crown

What is it?

Menopause is the natural circle where the female hormones’ oestrogen and progesterone decreases and women’s fatality come to an end. Women’s menstrual circle (periods) ceases, the body can no longer release eggs (women are born with all their eggs), and they can no longer conceive children naturally.

The process of menopause can take place suddenly or progressively and on average can last for about 4 years. However, 10% of the female population can experience menopause for up to 12 years. Menopause starts between the ages of 44 and 55, but some women can experience it at a young age (premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency is used to describe menopause experienced by younger women). There are some factors which may cause premature menopause such as some breast cancer treatments (Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy), removal of the ovaries and some underlying conditions such as  Addison’s Disease and Down’s Syndrome.

Symptoms

Many women will experience symptoms and some at a more severe level. The symptoms of menopause are:

Hot Flushes: Is a sudden heat that spreads throughout your body, but there was no causation for this to take place. Sweat, heat or heart palpitation and flush on the face may be experienced during hot flushes.

Racing Heart: Heart palpitation (heart beating fast, strong (can feel the heart beating) or irregular) may increase between 8 to 16 beats per minutes (regular resting heartbeat is between 60-100 beats per minute) whilst experiencing hot flushes due to the huge drop in oestrogen level. There are times when a woman can experience heart palpitation when the body suffers a hormone imbalance such as pregnancy and during their menstrual circle.

Night Sweat: This is when your clothing and bedding is extremely wet, and the room or atmosphere is cool/cold.

Vaginal Dryness (discomfort during sexual intimacy): This can be self-rectified by using water-based lubricants before and during intimacy; part take in foreplay for longer and use unperfumed soap. If this continues, you may want to seek medical advice and referral.

Difficulty in Sleeping: If you are finding it very difficult to sleep, you can go to your Doctors who can advise on the right treatment for you;  such as CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), or you could talk to your local pharmacist.

Low Mood or Anxiety: This is when the person feels sad, anxious, etc. See our mental health post here for more information on how to get support.

Low Libido (Low Sex Drive): For anyone worried about this, please speak to your UK GP (General Practitioner) or your regular doctor (outside the UK) for advice. You can seek information or referrals from other health professionals such as, Psychosexual Therapist or your local pharmacy as well as visiting sexual health services in your local area or visit this charity website: https://sexualadviceassociation.co.uk/ which offers many fact sheets on different sexual problems.

Increase Urination: Some women may experience Overactive Bladder (OAB), this can include anything from urine leakage (leaking urine before getting to the bathroom), using the bathroom two to three times a night, to a sudden urge to use the bathroom and urinating more often. OAB may increase the likelihood of a fall as you are trying to rush to use the bathroom. 

Dry Skin, Mouth and Eyes: Menopause can bring many changes to the skin (think puberty but minus the wrinkle) such as tingling, pins and needles in some extreme cases; these symptoms are called paraesthesia. Some women may even experience formication; this is when you think you have creepy crawlers (insects) crawling up and down your skin. If you experience any itchiness on the skin for more than 3 days, please seek medical advice to rule out any other underlying health issues. Menopause can also cause your tears ducts to dry out.

Weight Gain and Low Metabolism: Weight gain is not a sudden process during menopause, but rather a gradual process. Individual lifestyle choices and other factors can impact the speed at which they gain weight.

Loss of Breast Fullness: This happens when the skin and connective tissues become dehydrated and have less elasticity, therefore the breasts lose firmness and fullness.

Sore or Tender Breast: This can be a burning, soreness, throbbing, stabbing or sharp pain in one or both breasts. The discomfort can vary from woman to woman and this pain is different from puberty or menstrual sore breast.                                                             

Hair Loss or Thinning on the Scalp:  is caused by the drop in oestrogen and progesterone level. These two hormones are very important in supporting hair growth. These hormones encourage speedy hair grown and allows the hair follicles to stay on the scalp for longer. These hormones are the main components to thickening the hair, however, due to drop of these hormones in the body and the hormonal imbalance, the hair can become thin and hair loss can occur.

 

Increase Hair Growth on Other Parts of the Body: Dues to the hormonal imbalance.

Headaches: Headaches in some women (the severity varies from women to women) tend to take place during perimenopause as the hormonal imbalance isn’t consistent.

Reduction in Bone and Muscle Masses: Oestrogen is a natural protector of the bone and the drop of oestrogen can cause the development of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis causes the bone to become less dense and thin.

Memory Problems and Difficulties in Concentration: Research has found that just under 2/3 of middle-aged women have experienced some form of cognitive issue, including concentration and the numbers increase in women experiencing perimenopause.

How to Reduce Hair Loss

A  healthy diet can play an important role in hair loss during menopause.

Complex proteins are the making of hair, and the main protein that makes up the hair strand is Keratin. Amino acid makes up keratin. Eating protein and amino acid-rich diet can enhance the health of the hair and support the strength of each strand during menopause and perimenopause.

Ascorbic acid, otherwise known as Vitamin C, is great at stimulating healthy hair regrowth after hair loss, as well as promoting healthy hair, by removing free radicals due to its anti-oxidant properties; this protects any structural damage to the protein in the hair. Shampoo that has ascorbic acid is very effective at removing mineral build-up from the scalp and hair and improving the hair’s ability to absorb moisture (water).

Vitamin A can help to speed up the rebuilding of new cells, and it is a key vitamin for retaining the moisture in the hair whilst preventing brittleness.

 Linoleic acid (Omega 6 fatty acids) and poly-saturated fats are vital to strengthening the hair structure. This acid and fats are found in various fish, olive oil and flaxseed, and are regarded as good fat.

 Niacin is also known as Vitamin B3: It is great at converting food into energy in the blood.  Niacin helping to maintain the structure of the blood cells, and improving blood circulation. This vitamin will help the flow of the blood to the scalp as well as providing the scalp and hair follicles with vital nutrients it needs for health and; therefore reducing the effect of menopause.

 Iron just like Niacin helps with providing good blood flow and essential nutrient to the body and scalp. Meat such as the liver and dark green vegetables such as spinach is a rich source of iron.

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) is also a very good vitamin for blood flow. It aids in the production of red blood cells which carries oxygen around the body. It is responsible for maintaining the hair colour. Unfortunately, this vitamin is mostly found in meat and fish products so vegans and vegetarian will need to take supplements of Vitamin B12 to benefit from its goodness and not become deficient.

Another Vitamin B that can support hair health, reduce grey hair and rebuild the follicle cells is Folates. Cod, green peas, white beans, egg and liver are all sources of folates.

The scientific name for Vitamin B5 is pantothenic acid. This vitamin strengthens the cells in the hair follicles and aids a healthy balance of sebum (oil the scalp produce) and moistures which helps to reduce Dandruff and/or itchy scalp. Egg yolk, tomatoes, beef, sweet potatoes, fish and liver.

Due to the drop of the female hormones during menopause, zinc is a vital mineral to have during this stage of a woman’s life as it helps to regulate the hormones in the body. Zinc reinforces the building of protein structure within the body and can play an important part in the construction of DNA. Zinc is found in spinach, egg, sweet potatoes, oysters, nuts, and chickpeas.

Stress is very important in how often it shreds. During menopause, the body is under a lot of stress, and it is then vital to find time to relax and de-stress. These activities can help to reduce stress: walking/exercise, listening to music, massage/pampering, socialising, talking about your stressors/problems, meditation, etc.

Hydration is very important, both external and internal. Drinking plenty of water or sources (oranges, grapefruit, cucumber, coconut water, etc.) rich in water will help to combat hair loss.

Cutting the use of direct heat and/or chemical processing the hair can support the health of your hair. Direct heat can dry out the strands, breaking the hair bond, causing brittleness, and increasing the chance of breakage. Chemicals can break down the proteins and the bond in the strands weakening the hair, and accumulating in the likelihood of breakage. Swimmers should protect the hair by wearing swimming caps, deep condition often as chlorine can dry out and damage the hair causing hair breakage and loss.

IF you’re worried about hair loss or any of the symptoms mentioned in this post during the menopause, you can seek medical advice from your doctor, who can refer you to either a dermatologist (skin specialist) or a trichologist (hair specialist). For women who are experiencing continuous or adverse effects of the menopause, your doctor may prescribe you Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)- please be aware that HRT can have side effects as HRT are synthetic (man-made) hormonal drugs.

Reference:

NHS (2018); Menopause; NHS;  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/

NHS (2018); Treatment Menopause; NHS;  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/treatment/

Mayo Clinical Staff (2020); Menopause; Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397

Huizen. J Ernst. H and PA-C (2020); Everything You Should Know About Menopause; Healthline;  https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause#symptoms

Healey. N and Jarvis. S MBE (2019); Does the menopause cause hair loss? Patient; https://patient.info/news-and-features/does-the-menopause-cause-hair-loss#:~:text=%22Hair%20loss%20during%20menopause%20is,much%20thinner%2C%22%20Denning%20explains.

Cappelloni. L, Sullivan, D (2019); Menopause Hair Loss Prevention; Healthline;  https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/hair-loss

The Marion Gluck Clinic (Accessed 11/2020); 10 Nutrients For Healthy Hair During Menopause; https://www.mariongluckclinic.com/blog/nutrients-healthy-hair-menopause.html

Durward, E (Accessed 11/2020); Hair loss and menopause Hair loss can occur because of the menopause; A. Vogel; https://www.avogel.co.uk/health/menopause/symptoms/hair-loss/

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Different Types of Water for Hydration

Posted on by Flourishing Crown

Just like the rest of the body, water is very important for the health of the hair and for hair growth. The right water balance for the hair is dependent of your hair, your health and your diet; but the main important thing is the hair needs to be hydrated at all times by getting regular moisture (water).

Many believe it is best to use distilled water as this water doesn’t contain harsh minerals, chemicals and elements such as calcium. Cities like London and New York (for examples) have very harsh elements in their water. If you are unable to get distilled water you can get water filters to remove some of the harsh elements or (worst case) boil the water before using.

We look at the benefit of three different types of waters for the hair which are ordinary (distilled) water, rose water and rice water.

Benefit of Water:

Water makes up about 60-70% of our body, so maintaining the right level of water in the body is very important for ultimate health and functionality.

Intake of water is important to flush out harmful toxin from the body, aid in digestions and supports the flows of oxygen and nutrients around the body and hair. Water makes up about 80% of the lymphatic system which helps to lubricate the joints and cartilages in the skeletal system and aids in warding off infection; through sweating, water helps to regulate the body temperature when the body overheats (in hotter climates, sickness and during exercise). Water can help to regulate the blood and the blood pressure, as water is made up about 90% of the blood. The more water the blood has, the more the blood is diluted and this can lower the pressure, and less water means the blood is more concentrated and may increase the pressure. Water is excellent for brain function as it is a key component of the cerebrospinal fluid, as it is an important element for the neurotransmitters and hormones. A long period of dehydration may decline in brain functionality and can cause a headache.Water can lower the protentional life-threatening risk of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), aid the health of the kidney by lowering the risk of kidney stones, bladder infection and other chronic kidney diseases. For those looking for youthful, plumping, collagen filled and elasticated skin; drinking plenty of water will help you stay looking young and youthful for longer and help prevent premature ageing as it slows down the signs of fine lines and wrinkles. Mineral water helps to keep the skin hydrated, distribute the oil in the skin and build a barrier on the skin that is harder to break through by the sun, hence reducing sun damage.

 

Hair 

Water carries (through the blood) essential nutrient to the scalp, hair root and follicles which nourishes the hair. A dehydrated hair can dry out the hair shaft and a dry hair shaft can lead to split ends, breakage of the hair and dry and brittle hair. Water can remove toxin from the hair and scalp through sweat and hair wash. Water also helps to carry and distribute sebum (the natural oil the scalp produces for the hair) to the hair strands which helps to reduce frizz, tangles and knots on the hair.

 

It provides the hair with flexibility and elasticity which provides movement and decreases breakage

Best, easiest and cheapest way to provide moisture (as water is moisture). Moisture then keeps the hair hydrated. Hydrated hair means that the hair is not dry as dry hair causes brittle breakable hair.

Rose Water

Rosa damascene is the scientific name for rose. Roses can be found all over the world in different varieties and colours and the flower tends to be the symbol for love. The petal can be used for many different things such as food, beautiful bouquet and be pressed, boiled to make oil, essential oil and water.  The water has been know to be use for cosmetic practices back to the ancient Egyptian times.

Rose water is distilled water with the benefits and the scent of roses. You can either buy rose water or make it yourself.

To make rose water, all you need is fresh scented rose petals (washed under water) placed in a pot of distilled water. Boil on medium heat until the colour of the petals changed, let it cool and poor in a bottle or a jar. Store it in a cool dark place.

If you buy rose water make sure that you check the ingredient for any harsh chemicals and preservatives.

Benefits of Rose Water:

Helps to reduces dandruffs as rose water is a mild astringent

The scent from the water is soothing and calming which may help left your mood

Leaves the hair softer, bouncier and fuller

It has antibacterial and cleansing properties which are beneficial to hair, scalp and skin (helps to heal cuts burns and other type of skin wound). This is great as rose water can be used on any hairstyles especially braids/plaits and twists (this helps with those busy days when wash day can be delayed by a day or two).

Rose water helps to stimulate the scalp and follicle cells which promotes hair growth and reduce hair loss.

Contains vitamin A, C, D, E, and B3, these strengthen the hair.

It fights against again for the scalp, the follicle cells and overall skill conditions (such as: eczema) as rose wated is packed with flavonoids, tannins, and antioxidants.

PS: When I was sick I was unable to wash my hair  for about 2 months (I wash my hair at least once a week or twice a week if I swim or exercise- this is every often) after undergoing a major surgery. Rose water was my hair saviour as my scalp never itched and the rose water helps to freshen and hydrate my hair (please remember that this was an emergency measure and not a permanent solution as hair and scalp needs frequent cleansing to provide the ultimate atmosphere for growth and health) 

Rice Water

Rice water treatment for hair is a practise done in Japan, China and Southeast Asia since around the 794CE (the Heian Period) and has now grow in popularity in the West.

Rice water is the starchy watery left over from cooked or soak rice.  This water contains many vitamins and minerals such as: Vitamin E, antioxidants, amino acids and the B vitamins.

Benefit of Rice Water

It is believed that rice water helps to detangle the hair whilst providing shine

Rice Water makes the hair smoother, stronger whilst promoting growth (due to good blood circulation to the scalp). Inositol is contained in rice water; a Japanese research facility suggest that inositol have a strengthen effect of the hair. It creates a coat around the hair strand.

Adds volume and repairs damage hair especially split ends.

PS: When I worked at a sixth form college in North London, a young lady asked my opinion on what products to use to help grow her natural hair. As we were discussing this, a young Chinese student decided to interject himself to our conversation, to highly recommend rice water. He informed us how his female family members uses rice water and how long and beautiful their hair grew. 

Coconut Water

Coconut water is the juice from a young green coconut (mostly, however, mature coconut can also contain the juice) which is growing on a palm tree. Palm trees can be found in tropical climates and areas such as the Caribbean, Africa and Asia. The Latin name for coconut is Cocos Nucifera and it is considered a fruit rather than a nut despite its name. Pure coconut water contains about 94% water and very little fat content. Coconut can take up to a year to mature and coconut can be considered young from around 6 months of growth.

As well as having most of the benefits of normal water for the body listed above, coconut water is also boosting the immunity and the metabolism which can aid in weight loss. For pregnant women, it can help with hyperemesis gravidarum (morning sickness) and heartburn. Coconut water can help to reduce stress and anxiety when consume before bed as the sweet fragrance slows down your heart rate and reacts to your psychological senses. Also, coconut water contains antioxidants, which help to regulate free ridicules and helps the body fight against diseases and organ damage especially of the liver. Coconut water can aid in reducing the glucose, insulin and haemoglobin levels in the blood, which can help to regulate prediabetic and diabetic patients (type 2 diabetic) sugar level; it is rich in magnesium which can lead to sensitivity to insulin.

Coconut water reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels and therefore aiding in the health of the heart. It also contains arginine, which is great for a healthy heart and aiding in the healing of the body tissues after exercise. Cytokinin is a hormone that helps to fight cancer and have anti-ageing properties; cytokine is found in coconut water, but there haven’t been any significant studies that support coconut as a good source of fighting or reducing cancer or cancer cells.

Hair

Coconut water contains many minerals and vitamins such as amino acid which helps to keep the hair cells strong, promotes growth (due to the antibacterial fatty acid of lauric acid that moisture the hair strands) and gives the hair a thicker appearance. It also hydrates the hair, which helps to soften the hair and keeps it silky and helps to tame the frizz. Coconut water is a lightweight Hydrator that helps to nourish the hair without its weight the hair down. It also has antiseptic properties that help to fight dandruff and dry scalp. Due to coconut water containing potassium, it means it can nourish the hair and prevent hair loss.

 

Reference:

Whelan, C (2019); Rose Water Uses and Benefits for Hair; Healthline; https://www.healthline.com/health/rose-water-for-hair#recipe

Haupt, P (20.05.2020); THE BENEFITS OF ROSE WATER FOR NATURAL HAIR; Natural Hair Queen; https://naturalhairqueen.net/rose-water-benefits-natural-hair/

Healthy Focus (20.05.2020); The Benefits of Rose Water for Hair; Healthy Focus; https://healthyfocus.org/rose-water-for-hair/

Dr Heben’s Team (20.05.2020); 21 Benefits of Rosewater For Beauty, Skin, Hair Treatment; Dr Health Benefits; https://drhealthbenefits.com/herbal/herbal-plant/benefits-of-rosewater

Samuel, S (2019); 5 Reasons Why You Should Use Rose Water for Hair; The Urban Guide; https://www.urbancompany.com/blog/beauty/rose-water-for-hair/

Burgess, L (2018); What does rice water do for your hair? Medical News Today; https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321353

Spring 8; Development of Hair-Care Products from Rice Water; http://www.spring8.or.jp/pdf/en/indu_appli/p10-11.pdf

Ladin, B (2017); Can Rice Water Make Your Hair Stronger and Shinier? Healthline; https://www.healthline.com/health/rice-water#1

Morse, R (2019); Does Washing Your Face with Rice Water Help Your Skin? Healthline; https://www.healthline.com/health/rice-water-for-skin

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Black Seed Oil

Posted on by Flourishing Crown

History of Black Seed Oil

Black Seed comes from the fruits of a small plant with pale purple, blue, or white flowers that can be found in Eastern Europe, Western Asia and the Middle East. The plant is called Nigella Sativa, but the seed has many different names such as Black Cumin, Black Caraway, Black Onion Seeds and Kalonji. This seed is also mentioned in the bible in Isaiah:27

Black seed has been used as remedies for thousands of years as well as used to spice food and drinks such as pickles, curries, salads, vegetable dishes and bread. The high quality of black seeds is used for food and drinks.

Black seeds have many benefits for the skin, hair and overall health of the body and form part of the ingredients for many beauty products, for example; Shampoo, Massage oils, fragrances, etc.

What is it?

Black seed oil is obtained from the seed using a cold compression method This allows the purest and highest potency nutrients from the seed retain in the oil; the darker the oil, the higher the purity. Black seed oil contains thymoquinone. Thymoquinone is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that may have tumour-reducing benefits.

Black seed oil is also high in fatty acid, but low in Omega 3 and rich in polyunsaturated fat, which means it is great for the heart.

Benefits for the Hair

Studies have shown that black seed oil helps to grow and strengthen the hair shaft diameter (fight against thinning hair) as well as adding shine to a lacklustre and lifeless hair. Black seed oil reduces dandruff, soothes itchy scalp and help fight against greyness.

Benefits for the Body

Black Seed has many health benefits both in the application and when indigested (capsule).

Skin

A 2013 study shows that black seed oil reduces the severity of eczema compared to prescribed medication. It can also help with acne according to different research because black seed oil contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

General Health

According to recent studies, black seed oil may help with treating cancer as thymoquinone found in the oil may be able to kill off cancer cells found in leukaemia, breast and brain cancers. These researchers didn’t conduct on human, but on cancer uses cells. A research conducted on rats in 2013 shows that the oil may reduce liver and kidney disease complication and improve these organ structures. An article from the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that black seed oil may contain anti-diabetic properties and improve blood sugar. This sounds great for diabetics- but remember that these researches happen with animal participants and not humans. There is great news for men who want to have children but finds it hard. Research conducted in men found that the oil increases sperm mobility and sperm count. It may also help with Rheumatoid Arthritis and muscle spasms. The oil may aid in lowering Cholesterol (and supporting the health of the heart) as well as easing toothache

Side Effects

Black seed oil may cause a rash in some individual, so it is very important to do a patch test before using it.

The oil should not be used near the eyes, nose or other sensitive areas of the body.

Consuming black seed oil may cause stomach problems such as constipation, stomach upset and vomiting.

If you are pregnant or breastfeed, please seek medical advice before using.

 

Reference 

Naturally Curly; Berley, S (2019); Natural Hair Growth Remedy: Black Seed Oil; https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/kinky-hair-type-4a/hair-growth-remedies-black-seed-oil

Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322948#takeaway

Natural Food Series; Jessimy, M (2019); Black Seed Oil Benefits: For Health, Skin, Hair and Side Effects; https://www.naturalfoodseries.com/11-health-benefits-black-seed-oil/

Healthy Hubb: https://www.healthyhubb.com/black-seed-oil-benefits/

Beauty Best Care; Smith, J (2020); How To Use Black Seed Oil For Hair Growth; https://www.beautybestcare.com/black-seed-oil-for-hair-growth

Fresh, Body Mind; Ellie (2019); The Amazing Black Seed Oil Benefits for Hair; https://freshbodymind.com/black-seed-oil-benefits-for-hair/

Naturally Daily (2019); Black Seed Oil For Hair: 10 Benefits of Kalonji Oil; https://naturallydaily.com/black-seed-oil-for-hair/

Healthline; https://www.healthline.com/health/black-seed-oil-for-hair

Organic Facts; Staughton, J (2020); 5 Amazing Benefits Of Black Seed Oil For Hair; https://www.organicfacts.net/black-seed-oil-hair.html

NCBI; Yousefi, M, et al (2013); Comparison of therapeutic effect of topical Nigella with Betamethasone and Eucerin in hand eczema; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23198836

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Mothering Sunday UK 22 March 2020

Posted on by Flourishing Crown

Gift Ideas from Flourishing Crown

Treat your mum to  a different and special gifts from Flourishing Crown and show her just how much she means to you.

Happy UK Mother’s Day to all the hard working mothers who have sacrificed so much for their children xXx

 

Reference:

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Olive Oil

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What is Olive Oil?

Olive Oil is an oil that derives from its fruits rather than its seeds. This oil comes from the olive fruit which growths on the olive tree around the Mediterranean regions; Olive oil has been part of the Mediterranean lifestyle and beauty regimen since  5000BC (before this, the oil was used as a fuel to light the lamp and for religious ceremonies) as well as getting mentioned in the bible.

Why is Olive Oil good for the hair?

Olive oil has very high levels of monounsaturated essential fatty acids (the good, healthy fat) and vitamin E, it also has many great acids such as Palmitic acid, Oleic acid, Squalene and Terpenes; these acids act like balms which are believed to soften and smooth the hair by creating a layer on the surface of the hair that helps it to lubricate the hair. This decreases any tangles and snagging of the hair. These acids also naturally condition the hair.

Vitamin E helps to fight free radicals from the sun and the pollution in the atmosphere that may damage the hair.

Olive oil is great at alleviating itching and inflammatory scalp and reduce and flaky scalps, therefore reducing all symptoms associated with dandruff.

It nourishes, softens and locks in the moisture in the hair by penetrating the hair shaft and therefore reducing split ends and strengthen the hair. A softer hair can mean more manageable hair since the hair is hydrated.

Olive Oil may be able to aid hair retention and growth as it helps control the sebum on the scalp. Excess sebum can sometimes block the growth of new follicles.

Why is Olive Oil good for the body?

Olive oil helps to moisture the skin and keep its supple as well as (it may) prevent it from premature ageing.

It also helps to soften the dry skin and soothes some skin rash.

If store properly and consume (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), it has cardiovascular and liver-protective benefits and may prevent some cancer.

Disadvantage:

Olive oil goes rancid very quickly when exposed to oxygen and light.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of Olive Oil or and other oil in terms of food and the body, please check these links out.

https://manyeats.com/health-effects-of-olive-oil/>

How To Cook With The Healthiest Oils

Reference:

Nagdeve, M. (2020); 10 Health Benefits Of Olive Oil; Organic Facts; https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/health-benefits-of-olive-oil.html

Hirst, K.K. (2019); The Ancient History of Making Olive Oil; ThoughtCo; https://www.thoughtco.com/ancient-history-of-making-olive-oil-4047748

ExploreCrete; (17/02/2020); History of Olive Oil; https://www.explorecrete.com/nature/olive-oil-history.html

Leech, J. (2018); 11 Proven Benefits of Olive Oil; Healthline; https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-olive-oil

Nall, R. (2018); Is olive oil good for your hair? Medical News Today; https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323581

Reward Me (17/02/2020); Count On Olive Oil For Common Hair Care Problems; Reward Me; https://www.rewardme.in/beauty/hair/10-amazing-hair-care-benefits-of-olive-oil

Lagadien, S. (17/02/2020); Benefits of Olive Oil for Hair; Leaf; https://www.leaf.tv/13714760/the-health-benefits-of-oil-pulling/

Cutler, N. (2011); Liver Pros and Cons of Olive Oil; Liver Support; https://www.liversupport.com/liver-pros-and-cons-of-olive-oil/

Billian, S. (17/02/2020); Olive Oil Advantages & Disadvantages; Live Strong; https://www.livestrong.com/article/375120-olive-oil-advantages-disadvantages/

Photo by Frank Albrecht on Unsplash

Photo by Frank Albrecht on Unsplash

Castor Oil

Posted on by Flourishing Crown

What is Castor Oil?

Castor oil is a very thick and sticky oil that comes from the seed of the Ricinus Communis plant. The oil colour is between clear to very light yellow and, it has a very mild odour. The Ricinus Communis plant can be found in Africa and Asia and, it’s believed that the Egyptians were the first to discover the benefit of this oil. They used it not only in their beauty regimen and as medicine (eye irritation, stimulate labour in pregnant women) but also for other practical day-to-day activity and living necessity (such as an oil for burning their lamps). The oil is non-toxic, biodegradable and most importantly renewable.

Why is Castor Oil good for both the hair and skin?

Castor oil has many anti-fungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties that help to treat things like ringworm, dandruff, dry itchy scalp and skin. The Ricinoleic acid (12-Hydroxyoleic Acid) in castor oil consists of roughly 90% of the fatty acid; this helps to balance the pH of the scalp and creates an environment that is unsuitable for dandruff.

This oil is a humectant, which means it attracts and traps the moisture (water particles) from the air into the skin and hair. Just like all other oils, castor oil locks in the moisture (water) in the hair, which helps to keep the hair hydrated for longer; the longer moisture stays on the hair strands, the less like it will be prone to breakage and split ends as hydrated hair is flexible, manageable and, healthy. Castor oil penetrates the hair outer layer and fills in any damaged keratin on the strands. This locks in the moisture, keeps the hair hydrated and therefore, making the hair soft and manageable. It also adds shine and lustre to the hair as it forms a protective layer on the hair shaft; this helps to reduce frizz and premature greying, hair thinning and hair loss.

Castor oil is commonly used in today’s modern world as a laxative for constipation, uneven skin tone, acne and many other skin conditions.

How to use Castor Oil on hair?

Like with all oils, castor oil is best applied on wet or damp hair as it seals in the moisture. Due to the thickness of the oil, only the smallest amount needs to be applied to the hair.

Possible disadvantage of using Castor Oil?

Castor oil has few side effects if consume or absorb in a large amount such as:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea
  • Muscle cramps
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Hallucinations
  • Fainting
  • Shortness of breath and chest pain
  • Skin rash
  • Throat tightness
  • We highly recommend that medical advice should be sought as there might be underlying health issues when using castor oil for hair loss.
  • Stained clothes (best to wear an old t-shirt or unwanted clothes)

 

Resources and References:

Tadimalla, R.T; 2020; 9 Side Effects Of Castor Oil You Should Be Aware Of; StyleCraze; https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/side-effects-of-castor-oil-you-should-be-aware-of/#gref

Kandola, A; 2018; Benefits of castor oil for the face and skin; Medical News Today; https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319844.php

Wong, C; 2019; Using Castor Oil for Hair Growth; Very Well Health; https://www.verywellhealth.com/using-castor-oil-for-hair-growth-4172190

Winney; 2019; Benefits Of Using Castor Oil On 4C Hair; LovingKinkyCurls; https://lovingkinkycurls.com/benefits-of-adding-castor-oil-in-your-4c-hair-care-routine/

Walton, N; 2014; How to Use Castor Oil for Natural Hair Growth; Naturally Curly; https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/ingredients/how-to-use-castor-oil-for-natural-hair-growth

Hartfield, W; 2020; Castor Oil For Hair Loss Study Review; Hairguard; https://www.hairguard.com/castor-oil-benefits-for-hair/

Heather; 2012; 8 Benefits of Castor oil for natural hair & a warning!; Neno Natural; https://www.nenonatural.com/hair-blog/8-benefits-of-castor-oil-for-natural-hair-a-warning

Jostylin; 2019; My Experience Using Castor Oil to Grow Natural Hair | 4C Afro Hair Review; Jostylin; https://jostylin.com/how-to-use-castor-oil-to-grow-natural-hair-4c-afro-hair

Kelly AJ1, Kavanagh J, Thomas J; 2013; Castor oil, bath and/or enema for cervical priming and induction of labour; NCBI; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23881775

Photos by: CDC on Unsplash

Natural Oils for Natural Hair

Posted on by Flourishing Crown

These are summaries of oils that are great for natural hair and provides an excellent environment for hair growth, hair strength and thickness as well as length retention.

In the future, each oil will get explored in more detail.

 

Grapeseed Oil: This oil is lightweight and great to use as natural hair protection as it has a high boiling point.

Olive Oil: This heavy oil, is magnificent at conditioning the hair and with its anti-inflammatory property, it can help prevent dandruff.

Coconut Oil: This lightweight oil can penetrate the hair shaft with its antiviral, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties it can help prevent hair loss.

Argan Oil: Argan oil contains omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin E; this lightweight oil absorbed into the hair, providing great shiny and manageable hair. 

Sweet Almond Oil: This oil is full of so much goodness, such as fatty acids, magnesium, protein, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E, and antioxidants. It helps to seal in the moisture in the hair (keeping it hydrated for longer) and therefore providing elasticity without the greasy feeling.

Jojoba Oil: This is the only oil that is similar to the sebum oil (the natural oil the scalp produces). It is an excellent sealant as it locks in the moisture (water) into the hair.

Castor Oil: Castor Oil is a very thick oil that helps to thicken the hair strands and prevent thinning hair, breakage and hair loss.

Avocado Oil: This is another super oil that contains folic acid, amino acids, fatty acids, copper, iron, magnesium, proteins, and vitamins A, B, D, and E. It protects the hair from sun damages and good to use as a hot oil treatment.

Rapeseed Oil: Conditions the hair and helps to prevent hair loss, split ends and dandruff. It is rich in omega 3, 6 and 9 as well as vitamin E.

Mustard Seed Oil: This is another excellent hot oil treatment and support hair growth as it stimulates and encourages blood flow to the scalp.

Black Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa Seed): It has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant promoting a healthy scalp (creating a fantastic environment for hair growth) and reducing dandruff.

 

Reference:

Photo by Nacho Domínguez Argenta on Unsplash (Grapes)

Photo by Koen van Gilst on Unsplash (Rapeseed)

Photo by Joshua Lanzarini on Unsplash (Mustard Seed)

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash (Avocado)

Photo by chuttersnap on Unsplash (Almond)

Photo by Katherine Volkovski on Unsplash (Coconut)

Photo by Roberta Sorge on Unsplash (Olive Oil)