Sweat, dandruff, itching, in summer the hair can be put to the test and appear dull, brittle and at risk of falling. But, luckily, nature comes to our rescue with simple but powerful remedies. For example, mehti, or, as it is known to us, fenugreek, is a very popular plant used in Asia, especially in India, precisely to take care of the beauty and health of the hair. And the point is, it's not just about tradition. In fact, several scientific studies have confirmed the properties of mehti and have shown how this can counteract hair loss, but also irritation and dermatitis. But let's understand better.
Mehti or fenugreek, cosmetic properties
Fenugreek contains essential oils that are characterized by anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties and therefore it is useful to counteract irritation and itching of the scalp (Umar et al, Case Rep Dermatol Med., 2021) . Not only that, fenugreek or mehti is also antioxidant thanks to the presence of flavonoids, thus counteracting free radicals and aging processes, preserving the health of the hair. But mehti also counteracts hair loss. In fact, a scientific research has observed that applying a mixture made with herbs, including fenugreek, to the scalp, was able to make the hair stronger and lengthened the anagen phase of the hair, which is the first phase of the life cycle of the hair in which the hair itself grows (Purwal et al, Journal of Chemistry, 2008). Then, thanks to its content in saponins, that are antioxidants, fenugreek also has a cleansing and purifying action on the scalp, helping to remove sweat, pollution and impurities that can be deposited on the head and hair (Umar et al, Case Rep Dermatol Med., 2021). Finally, this herb also contains precious mucilages with a soothing and calming action, capable of restoring the protective film of the skin, giving it hydration and counteracting dermatitis and dandruff (Waqas et al, Acta Pol Pharm, 2010).
Mehti or fenugreek, how it can be used for hair beauty
Get mehti, or fenugreek, in powder form. It can be found in herbalist's shops and specialized stores, even online. In a bowl, pour a spoonful of mehti and a glass of water, mix and let it sit overnight. This step is important because, if fenugreek does not hydrate, it could then absorb water from the hair leaving it dry, instead of healthy and shiny. After this time, add a teaspoon of jojoba oil to the mixture, which regulates sebaceous production and restores the protective skin barrier (Lin et al, Int J Mol Sci, 2018), and one of pumpkin seed oil, which is a plant based oil that helps promote hair growth (Hajhashemi et al, Avicenna J Phytomed, 2019), mix and apply on the scalp and all hair. Wrap with cling film and leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse and continue with your usual shampoo.
