New Delhi: Okra, also known as ladyfingero r Bhindi in Hindi is a nutrient-rich vegetable celebrated for its various natural benefits for skin, health as well as hair. Okra is packed with nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium and vitamins A, C and K. Its unique mucilage, a gel-like substance found in the pods, offers impressive hydrating properties, making it a valuable ingredient not only for cooking but also for hair care.
In recent times Okra has gained a lot of recognition and value for its effectiveness on hair as it helps in providing hydrating, shiny and voluminous hair if used in its natural form. The natural mucilage helps retain moisture, making it an excellent solution for those with dry or frizzy hair. Okra’s antioxidant properties combat free radicals, protecting hair follicles and promoting hair growth. Additionally, its antibacterial and antifungal properties can help soothe scalp irritation, reduce dandruff, and create a healthier environment for hair to thrive.
Benefits of Okra for hair
Okra for its numerous benefits is used in our day-to-day life, not only as a vegetable but it can be of use for many other things as well.
- Moisturisation: The mucilage in okra, is a slimy gel-like substance that helps in locking the moisture in hair and is perfect for those with dry or damaged hair.
- Frizz-free hair: For achieving frizz-free and moisturised hair, using okra water can be an excellent choice. It smoothes the hair cuticles and makes them manageable.
- Promotes hair growth: Okra is rich in vitamins C and A, which boost collagen production and promote healthy hair growth.
- Adds shine: The perfect texture of okra helps in deep conditioning ideal to provide shiny and soft hair.
How to make Okra water for hair
Okra water is a very simple yet effective remedy to achieve deeply nourishing and shiny, smooth hair easily at home.
Ingredients:
- 5–6 fresh okra pods
- 2 cups of water
Steps to make:
- Wash the okra properly and cut them into small pieces.
- Put the chopped okra in a pot with water.
- Let the water boil for 10 minutes on medium flame.
- Remove the pot from heat and strain the okra water using a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
- Pour the okra water into a spray bottle or jar.
If you wish to make your hair smell good with moisture locked inside, add a few drops of rosemary or lavender oil for aroma.
Ways to use Okra for hair
Okra can be used as water directly or in many other ways to achieve frizz-free, nourished, smooth and shiny hair. Here are some simple ways to add okra to your haircare routine easily.
Okra hair conditioner
Ingredients:
- 5–6 fresh okra pods
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- A few drops of essential oil
Steps to make:
- Wash the okra and cut the end sides of the pods into small pieces.
- In a pan add okra along with water.
- Bring it to a boil for 10 minutes and add oils to it.
- Let it boil for 10 minutes more.
- Strain it with a cheesecloth and fill in a jar to spray and use daily.
Okra hair mask
Ingredients:
- 4–5 boiled okra pods
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
Steps to make:
- Blend okra in a jar to make a smooth paste.
- Mix coconut oil and aloe vera gel for smoothness.
- Apply this mix to your hair twice a week.
Okra hair rinse
Ingredients:
- Okra water
Steps to use:
- Make sure to rinse your hair at last with okra water.
- Pour on your hair and rinse in a circular motion for 5 minutes.
- Rinse off well with cold water.
By incorporating okra into your hair care routine, you can achieve soft, shiny, and healthy hair without relying on harsh chemicals.
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