Arnica is a flowering plant native to cold and rocky areas like Siberia or Eastern Europe. Because of its yellow-orange flowers, it’s often called the “mountain daisy”. Arnica is a homeopathic remedy for hair, skin, and scalp conditions. It has been used for centuries.
Arnica oil is toxic to inhale, but arnica can be diluted and applied topically. Most of the information we have about arnica oil’s healing properties and how it makes your hair shiny is based on personal experience. Continue reading to learn more about arnica oil and hair.
Arnica oil for hair health
Arnica is anti-inflammatory, and has antibacterial properties. A lot of research has shown that arnica can reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process for skin bruising.
Arnica oil is believed to be a natural remedy for hair and scalp problems. It can reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
However, most of our information about this system and its effectiveness is based on anecdotal evidence.
Arnica oil to treat hair loss
Most of the hair strands you see are made up of dead cells. You can increase the lifespan of your hair by strengthening your hair strands and improving the health of your hair follicle.
Applying topical arnica oil may remove sebum oils and other debris from your scalp that could block hair follicles. It can also help reduce itching and irritation that can lead to hair loss.
These potential benefits require more research.
Treatment for dandruff
Arnica oil is a popular holistic remedy for dandruff.
Seborrheic Dermatitis (or seborrheic dermatitis), is caused by irritation to the scalp, dry skin or fungal infections. Anecdotal evidence suggests that arnica oil can improve the texture of your scalp and reduce itching and inflammation.
Split ends
Arnica oil is believed to have the ability to strengthen hair strands from root to tip. Arnica oil can be used to coat hair strands. This will reduce the appearance of split ends.
However, other than anecdotal evidence, there is very little to support this claim.
Premature graying
It is very difficult to stop premature graying of hair. Genetic and environmental factors largely determine the timing of graying.
However, maintaining the health of your hair and strengthening the hair follicles can prolong the life of your hair.
Arnica oil can extend the life expectancy of hair strands and prevent grays from appearing early.
Side effects of Arnica hair oil
Although arnica oil can be applied topically, it is safe for most people. However, there are possible side effects.
A ragweed allergy can lead to an allergic reaction to arnica. This allergy may manifest as:
- Hives
- Itching
- Runny nose
- Inflamed sinuses
- Kopfschmerz
- Trouble breathing
Apply arnica to your hair and scalp immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Arnica oil can increase heart rate and blood pressure when ingested. Arnica oil should not be ingested.
Arnica is not safe to use if you are pregnant. Arnica has even been used to induce abortions using homeopathy. It is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. One infant suffered complications after his mother consumed arnica.
How to use Arnica Oil for Hair
Arnica oil can also be used topically to treat scalp and hair conditions. Arnica oil can be used in shampoos, conditioners and leave-in products. Arnica oil can be diffused but is not effective in treating hair.
Arnica oil can be purchased and used to make your own hair products or leave-in treatments. Mix arnica oil and a carrier oil to make your own.
To coat your scalp, mix 2 to 3 drops of arnica oil and 8 to 10 drops carrier oil. This hair mask should be left on for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm running water.
Keep some oil on hand to style your hair. Run the oil through your hair to fix split ends and tame flyaways.
Arnica oil is often added to products that include other ingredients if you prefer products with arnica oil. All natural ingredients such as calendula, grapeseed oil and shea butter can also support healthy hair and scalp.
Where can I buy arnica oil to treat my hair
Arnica oil can be purchased in most grocery stores and health food stores. You can find arnica oil products, such as cream rinses and shampoos for dandruff, at some beauty supply shops and online.
Be aware that statements regarding arnica’s effectiveness have not been evaluated and that your results with this ingredient could vary.
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Other essential oils for hair
Other types oils have more clinical evidence to support the use of essential oils for hair. You can also use essential oils for shiny, healthy hair:
- Lavender oil
- Cedarwood oil
- rosemary oil
- Tea Tree Oil
- Peppermint oil
Takeaway
Arnica oil is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Some people believe that arnica oil can be used to treat dandruff or to make hair healthier. These claims are not supported by much research.
Arnica oil can be used safely for most people. However, you must test it on your hair before using it on your entire head. Never ingest arnica oil.
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