FLAX ON EM
Welcome to another NaturAll Ingredient Spotlight! Are you on the flaxseed train yet? Flaxseed use has skyrocketed in the US in recent years, due to growing appreciation for its health benefits. People are using flaxseed oil in their diets, ground flaxseed in baking products, and hens are even being fed flaxseed to produce omega eggs!
Like most trendy products, flax has actually been cool for a long time. Flax was cultivated in Babylon as early as 3000 BC. Ancient Egyptians made linens from the fiber. In the 8th century, King Charlemagne was so serious about the health benefits of flaxseed that he passed laws to promote flax and encourage its production. He wasn’t wrong- flaxseed is one of the best natural sources of omega-3 fats, lignans, and fiber. It’s been found to lower blood sugar, help with heart disease, and reduce risk of cancer, all while providing the fiber and protein your body needs to be healthy.
Even the scientific name for flax seed, Linum usitatissimum, means “very useful.”
But flaxseed isn’t just a health food or a baking ingredient. The fiber can be used to produce paper, rope, and fabric. It’s the source of linseed oil, which is used to make paints, soaps, and varnishes, as well as preserve wood. And of course, Naturals have been using flaxseed as a DIY hair treatment for years.
What makes flaxseed so great for natural hair?
Flaxseed is loaded with nutrients and ingredients that benefit natural hair, externally and internally. You can integrate flaxseed into your hair regimen with hair products, but integrating flaxseed into your diet will also give you results.
ELASTICITY. Flaxseed is one of the best natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These compounds help prevent heart disease and they’re great for your brain! But they ALSO moisturize, strengthen, and protect hair. They improve elasticity and prevent breakage. People who lack these necessary essential fatty acids may experience dry, brittle hair.
HEALTHY SCALP. Omega-3s also help soothe and nourish the scalp, and can help prevent scalp conditions like dandruff and itchy scalp. Whether you apply flax oil to your scalp or incorporate flax into your diet, you’ll find a more moisturized, healthy scalp.
REPAIR AND GROWTH. Flax is rich in antioxidants, which lower your risk of infection and reduce your risk of cancer. But if that weren’t enough, antioxidants also repair damaged hair follicles, prevent tissue corrosion, and keep your follicles healthy- creating a hospitable environment for new hair growth.
STRENGTH We all know we need protein in our diet, but did you know your hair is made out of protein? A protein-deficient diet leads to weak, brittle hair. Flax is an excellent source of protein, so inside and out, it will help maintain strong natural hair.
REDUCED INFLAMMATION. Flaxseed contains lignans, which actually reduce risk of cancer! But they ALSO can decrease inflammation, and promote healthy hair growth.
HOLD AND DEFINITION. You can use flaxseed to make a natural gel that defines and moisturizes curly and kinky hair without creating stiffness or crunchiness. It provides great hold and is flake free! Using flaxseed gel is a great way to apply the benefits of flaxseed to your hair topically, AND to get amazing hold for your style!
I’ve heard enough! How do I incorporate flax into my hair regimen?
Flax is as versatile as it is “very useful.” There are so many ways to get the benefits of flax for your natural hair!
- Eat flaxseed! If you incorporate flaxseed into your diet, not only does it benefit your hair, but you get all the health benefits as well! You can sprinkle flax seeds on your salad or yogurt, mix ground flaxseed into your oatmeal or smoothie, or bake ground flaxseed into cookies and bread. You can also drizzle flax oil on salad or veggies- just don’t cook with flax oil! (When it’s heated, it loses much of its nutritional value.)
- Add flaxseed oil to your favorite hair products for added moisture, protection, and strength. You can mix a few drops or tablespoons into your Cleansing Shampoo to enhance your wash, or mix it into your Avocado Deep Conditioner to leave your scalp even more hydrated and nourished.
- Massage pure flaxseed into your scalp to stimulate follicles, soothe the scalp, and encourage growth.
- Use NaturAll Club's Flaxseed Styling Line! Our Flaxseed Gel, Edge Control, and Curl Custard are made with PURE flaxseed gel! Available HERE!
