7 Impressive Benefits Of Walnuts for Hair & How to Use It

Are you tired of dealing with hair woes like hair fall, dull strands, or dandruff? Trust me, you're not alone. In our fast-paced world, it's tough to find the time to take proper care of our hair, and we often end up relying on chemical-laden products for quick fixes, only to cause more harm in the long run. 

But what if I told you there's a natural solution that can work wonders for your hair? That's right, meet your hair's new BFF: walnuts! These tasty, nutritious nuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and protein, making them one of the most hair-friendly foods out there. 

In this article, we'll explore the 7 incredible benefits of walnuts for hair growth and nourishment, and I'll share some tips on how to use walnuts to achieve healthy, luscious locks. So, let's dive in and find out why walnuts are a haircare game-changer!

7 Incredible Walnut Benefits for Hair Growth & Nourishment

Walnuts(1) offer numerous benefits for hair growth and nourishment, providing essential nutrients and properties to promote healthy hair. Here are seven incredible benefits of incorporating walnuts into your hair care routine:

Nourish Hair from Root to Tip

Walnuts are packed with essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9, which deeply nourish hair from root to tip, promoting growth and overall health. 

Moreover, walnuts are an excellent source of biotin, which keeps the scalp and hair follicles healthy and stimulates the growth of new strands. Consuming walnuts or applying walnut oil regularly can help you achieve healthy, vibrant, and strong hair.

Repair Hair Damage and Stimulate Hair Growth

Walnuts are rich in vitamin E, omega-3, and potassium, which reduce hair breakage(2)and promote stronger, healthier hair. They also shield your hair from harsh sunlight, pollution, and other environmental factors. 

Walnuts, abundant in antioxidants and fatty acids, aid in activating inactive hair follicles while preventing and repairing damage, resulting in healthier, more robust, and denser hair growth. Eating walnuts or using walnut oil for hair can make a significant difference in your hair's health and appearance.

Boost Hair Radiance and Shine

Walnuts are a powerhouse of nutrients, including biotin and copper, that work together to nourish your hair and intensify its luster. Copper plays a crucial role in the synthesis of melanin pigment, which gives hair its color. This also means that walnuts benefit grey hair by  slowing down the greying process, keeping your hair looking naturally vibrant and youthful. 

A deficiency in copper can lead to dull and lackluster hair. So, incorporating walnuts into your diet or hair care routine can significantly improve your hair's texture and appearance.

Fortify Scalp and Bid Farewell to Dandruff

Its insane nutritional values mean that walnuts have numerous benefits for your skin too, the scalp in particular. Walnuts possess antifungal properties, which help hydrate the scalp, prevent dirt and excess oil buildup on the roots, and reduce flakiness. The alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid in walnuts, conditions the hair, and the lightweight texture of walnuts helps remove dandruff caused by dry and flaky scalp. 

The anti-inflammatory properties of walnuts soothe and calm an inflamed scalp, reducing itchiness, dandruff, and discomfort. You can either use walnut oil to massage your scalp or use crushed walnuts as a hair scrub. Both help in stimulating oil production and promoting hair growth.

Combat Hair Loss

Walnuts contain biotin, vitamins B1, B6, B9, and E, plenty of protein, and potassium(3), all nutritions which can strengthen hair cuticles and prevent thinning. Insufficient potassium may hinder cellular repair and regeneration, potentially leading to hair loss or even baldness. 

A regular massage with walnut oil can easily prevent hair fall, making your hair stronger and more resilient. People who incorporate walnuts into their diet or use walnut oil have been observed to have healthier hair compared to those who don't.

Shield Hair from Chlorine

Swimming is great for your health, but chlorine in swimming pools can be harmful to your hair. Fortunately, walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that naturally protect against free radicals and prevent damage from chlorine. Additionally, walnuts contain selenium, a mineral that helps prevent hair breakage. 

Pre-wash treatment with walnut oil has been found to protect hair from damage caused by hydrogen peroxide and ultraviolet radiation. So, if you're a swimmer or planning a beach vacation, consider massaging your scalp with walnut oil before taking a dip.

Oleic and Linoleic Acids for Hair Health

Walnuts are an excellent source of oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), both of which play essential roles in maintaining hair health. Oleic acid supports a healthy scalp, reducing hair loss by nourishing the hair follicles, while linoleic acid nourishes the hair shaft and maintains the scalp barrier's health. 

By protecting the scalp from bacteria and other environmental factors that can damage hair follicles, these fatty acids found in walnuts contribute to strong, healthy hair. Alternatively, you can also soak walnuts overnight and consume them the next day, as soaked walnuts provide additional benefits for hair by being easier to digest and releasing more nutrients.

7 Best Ways to Use Walnuts for Hair Growth

Homemade Walnut Oil

Treat your hair to this luxurious homemade walnut oil, made with just a few simple ingredients. This nourishing concoction combines the power of walnuts with coconut oil for an intense boost of hydration and nutrients. Give your scalp a revitalizing massage and let your hair soak up the goodness before washing it off. Regular application will leave your hair healthier and more resilient.

Ingredients:

• 15 walnuts
• 1 cup coconut oil
• ½ liter water

Instruction:

1. Boil walnuts in water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Allow the walnuts to cool, then grind them into a powder.
3. Mix the coconut oil with the walnut powder, creating a walnut-infused coconut oil.
4. Massage the oil into your scalp and hair, leaving it for 30 minutes before washing it out.
5. If you’re looking for optimal results, repeat this treatment twice a week.

Walnut and Avocado Hair Mask

Experience the nourishing power of walnuts and avocados with this creamy hair mask, designed to deeply condition and rejuvenate your locks. The rich blend of healthy fats and vitamins from both ingredients will leave your hair feeling silky and strong.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp walnut oil
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed

Instruction:

1. Mix the walnut oil and mashed avocado in a bowl until smooth.
2. Put the mixture on your hair, use most of it on the roots and tips.
3. Leave it on for 30-45 minutes before washing it off with a gentle shampoo.

Walnut Decoction for Hair Fall

Strengthen your hair from within with this potent walnut decoction, made using just walnut twigs and water. This powerful solution, applied directly to your roots, can help combat hair fall and promote healthier, more robust hair growth.

Ingredients:

• 2–3 walnut twigs (with leaves)
• ½ liter water

Instruction:

1. Boil walnut twigs in water for several minutes.
2. Allow the mixture to cool, then strain and apply directly to your hair roots.
3. Massage your scalp for better absorption and let it dry.
4. Use this decoction regularly for optimal results.

Walnut and Yogurt Hair Treatment

Treat your hair to this refreshing walnut and yogurt hair treatment, perfect for soothing an irritated scalp and adding luster to your locks. The combination of walnut oil and yogurt works together to balance and nourish your hair for a healthier appearance.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp walnut oil
• 1 cup plain yogurt

Instruction:

1. Mix the walnut oil and yogurt in a bowl until well combined.
2. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, ensuring even coverage.
3. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes
4. Use a mild shampoo to rinse thoroughly.

Walnut and Egg Hair Mask

Give your hair a protein boost with this nutrient-dense walnut and egg hair mask. The mix of walnuts, eggs, and olive oil provides your hair with essential nutrients, strengthening it from within and leaving it soft and shiny.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp walnut oil
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instruction:

1. In a bowl, whisk the egg and add the walnut oil and olive oil.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, covering it evenly.
4. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes
5. Use a mild shampoo to rinse thoroughly.

Walnut and Rosemary Oil Blend

Unlock the full potential of your hair with this invigorating walnut and rosemary oil blend. The harmonious combination of these two powerful oils nourishes and stimulates your scalp, encouraging optimal hair growth and vitality.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup rosemary oil
• ¼ cup walnut oil

Instruction:

1. Blend the two oils and apply the mixture to your hair.
2. Massage your scalp and hair thoroughly, allowing it to sit for 30 minutes.
3. Use a mild shampoo to rinse thoroughly.

Walnut Oil and Hibiscus Combination Hair Mask

Indulge your tresses with this exquisite walnut oil and hibiscus hair mask. The blend of walnut oil, crushed hibiscus flowers, and coconut oil works wonders for your hair woes, leaving your locks rejuvenated and radiant.

Ingredients:

• 2–3 tbsp walnut oil
• 1 cup crushed hibiscus flowers
• 1 tbsp coconut oil

Instruction:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Spread the blend evenly on your scalp and hair.
3. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes, then rinse with a gentle shampoo.

Final Thought: So, Are Walnuts Good for Your Hair?

The verdict is in: walnuts are absolutely fantastic for your hair! With their impressive nutrient profile, including essential fatty acids, biotin, and copper, walnuts have the power to transform your hair's health, appearance, and strength. By incorporating walnuts into your diet and trying out the various hair treatments we've discussed, you'll be giving your hair the nourishment it needs to flourish. 

And, let's not forget the added bonus of their positive effects on your skin and overall health as well. Moreover, walnuts offer several benefits for females, such as hormone balance and improved heart health. So, go ahead and enjoy the benefits of walnuts and walnut oil for your hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are walnuts good for hair growth?

Yes, walnuts are good for hair growth. They're rich in essential fatty acids, biotin, and other nutrients that nourish the hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.

Are walnuts good for hair loss?

Yes, walnuts can help reduce hair loss. They contain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which support a healthy scalp and may help prevent hair loss.

Do walnuts prevent grey hair?

While walnuts may not completely prevent grey hair, their copper content aids in melanin production, which can help maintain your hair's natural color. This claim may need further scientific evidence, but it is known that copper plays a role in melanin production.

How many walnuts to eat per day for hair growth?

A handful of walnuts (about 7-8 whole walnuts) per day is a good amount to promote hair growth and maintain overall health. This estimation is based on general recommendations for nut consumption.

What happens if you eat walnuts everyday?

Eating walnuts every day can improve hair and skin health, boost heart health, and support brain function, thanks to their nutrient-rich profile. However, moderation is key to avoid excessive calorie intake. It's important to maintain a balanced diet and not rely solely on walnuts for nutrition.

References

1. McGranahan, G. and Leslie, C. (2011). Walnut. Fruit Breeding, {online} pp.827–846. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-0763-9_22.

‌‌2. Mir, G.M., Nisar, O. and Iqbal, U. (2016). Scientific Processing of Walnuts Necessary for Amazing Health Benefits. {online} ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319182987_Scientific_Processing_of_Walnuts_Necessary_for_Amazing_Health_Benefits.

3. Fatima, T., Umbreen Showkat and Syed Zameer Hussain (2018). Nutritional and health benefits of walnuts. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, {online} 7(2), pp.1269–1271. Available at: https://www.phytojournal.com/archives?year=2018&vol=7&issue=2&ArticleId=3528.