Cinnamon is a well-known spice that is believed to have positive effects on hair health. It is suggested that it can promote hair growth, reduce hair loss, and treat dandruff. More research is required to validate these assumption. Furthermore, there is no evidence to support the notion that cinnamon can dye or lighten hair. It is important to consider scientific findings and potential side effects when exploring the impact of cinnamon on hair.
Does Cinnamon improve the hair growth?
Some research suggests that cinnamon may have potential benefits for promoting hair growth. A 2019 review examined the effect of procyanidin, a compound found in cinnamon, on hair growth. While the reviewed studies linked procyanidin with hair growth, it's worth noting that the procyanidin used in those studies was derived from apple juice, not cinnamon.
Additionally, a 2018 animal study demonstrated that cinnamon oil could enhance hair length in male rats. The study found that cinnamon oil was equally effective as a 2 percent topical minoxidil (Rogaine) treatment.
The researchers attributed this effect to cinnamaldehyde, the primary compound in cinnamon. Cinnamaldehyde is believed to enhance circulation and blood flow to the hair follicles, thereby supporting hair growth.
Despite these findings, further research is necessary to explore the use of procyanidin specifically from cinnamon and to conduct studies involving human subjects.
Can Cinnamon slow hair loss?
Hair loss can be associated with insufficient blood flow to the hair follicles, as they require adequate blood supply and nutrients for optimal hair growth. The presence of cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon may potentially aid in addressing this issue. The 2018 study mentioned previously suggested that cinnamaldehyde's ability to improve circulation could potentially reduce excessive hair loss in older individuals.
However, it is important to emphasize that further research is required to gain a better understanding of this effect and to validate its efficacy. While there is some preliminary evidence supporting the potential benefit of cinnamon in improving blood flow and reducing hair loss, more studies are necessary to draw definitive conclusions.
Can you use cinnamon for hair dye?
Claims suggesting that cinnamon can be used as a natural dye or hair lightener exist, but there is no scientific evidence to support these assertions. The idea is that cinnamon could potentially alter the shade of different hair types and colors. However, the final result is believed to depend on the hair's original color. For instance, it is claimed that cinnamon can transform blond hair into strawberry blond or lighten dark brown hair to a reddish-light brown shade.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that the supposed lightening effect of cinnamon on hair is purely based on anecdotal evidence and lacks scientific backing. Therefore, it is important to approach such claims with skepticism, as there is no conclusive research supporting cinnamon's ability to dye or lighten hair.
Does Cinnamon treat dandruff?
A 2013 study indicated that cinnamon possesses antifungal properties and can potentially combat Malassezia, a fungus known to contribute to the occurrence of dandruff. This finding suggests that cinnamon could be a potential natural remedy for dandruff. However, it is important to highlight that further research is necessary to explore this potential and ascertain the effectiveness of cinnamon in treating dandruff. While the initial study indicates promise, more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in this regard.
Side effects and precautions of using Cinnamon oil?
It is important to be aware that both cinnamon oil and ground cinnamon can potentially cause adverse effects when applied to the skin. These side effects may include skin irritation, such as contact dermatitis, redness, rash, a burning sensation, or in rare cases, a chemical burn if there is prolonged or excessive use.
To minimize the risk of experiencing these side effects, it is advisable to conduct a patch test before using cinnamon topically. Apply a small amount of cinnamon, either oil or ground, inside your elbow and observe for any negative reactions over a period of 24 to 48 hours. If any adverse reactions occur, it is recommended to discontinue the use of cinnamon immediately.
Additionally, when using cinnamon oil, it is advisable to dilute it since it is highly concentrated and can be potentially irritating to the skin.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that while some individuals may tolerate cinnamon as a spice when consumed orally, they may still have adverse reactions when using cinnamon oil on their skin. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using cinnamon oil topically, even if it can be safely consumed in spice form.
Try Cinnamon in Hair
If you are interested in using cinnamon for hair growth or dandruff, you can try the following method:
1. In a small saucepan, warm 1/4 cup of coconut oil or olive oil over low heat until it reaches a lukewarm temperature. Ensure that the oil does not boil.
2. Add 3 to 5 drops of cinnamon oil or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the warmed oil. Mix well to create a hair mask.
3. Part your hair and apply the mixture onto your scalp using a brush or clean fingers. Repeat this process until your entire scalp is saturated with the mixture. Ensure that you also spread the remaining mixture to the ends of your hair.
4. Allow the mixture to sit on your scalp and hair for approximately 15 minutes.
5. After the allotted time, wash your hair as you normally would during your regular hair-washing routine.
If you have an oily scalp and prefer to avoid using oil as a base, you can consider using alternatives such as yogurt or honey in place of the oil.
Remember to always perform a patch test before applying the mixture to your scalp to check for any adverse reactions. Additionally, if you experience any discomfort or irritation during the process, discontinue use immediately.
Takeaway
When applied to the scalp, cinnamon may have the potential to stimulate circulation, which in turn could promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Additionally, its antifungal properties suggest that it may be beneficial in treating dandruff caused by the Malassezia fungus.
However, it is important to note that cinnamon has not been scientifically proven to dye or lighten hair. Despite the popularity of this claim, there is no substantial evidence supporting its efficacy in this regard.
It is crucial to exercise caution when using cinnamon, as some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to it. This is particularly relevant when using cinnamon oil, which is highly concentrated. It is advisable to perform a patch test before applying cinnamon to the scalp or skin and carefully observe for any signs of irritation. If any adverse reactions occur, it is recommended to discontinue the use of cinnamon on the skin.
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