Coconut is one of those palm trees with a multitude of uses. It is best known for its fruits that are actually drupes and not nuts. These fruits, commonly referred to as coconuts, are used for culinary, cosmetic as well as industrial purposes. Coconuts are widely used in various parts of the world, especially the tropics, where this palm is found abundantly. While, coconut water is said to be a refreshing as well as healthy drink, coconut meat is also an indispensable ingredient in various regional cuisines. Even coconut milk and coconut oil are used for culinary purposes. These products are highly valued for their cosmetic uses too. They are claimed to be good for both skin and hair care. While many are found to be aware of the benefits of coconut oil for hair, very few know about coconut milk uses. This article deals with some information about benefits of coconut milk for hair.
What is Coconut Milk
There is a general misconception that coconut milk is the liquid that is found inside coconuts. In fact, this liquid is coconut water and coconut milk is extracted from the meat found inside this fruit. You can make coconut milk by squeezing grated coconut meat. Such coconut milk will be thick and creamy in consistency. You may also grind grated coconut with a tablespoon of lukewarm water, before squeezing it to extract coconut milk. Once used for extracting coconut milk, the grated coconut can be squeezed again with a more of lukewarm water, so as to extract thin coconut milk. Both these types of coconut milk can be used for culinary purposes. However, thick coconut milk is good for hair care. Let us take a look at some of the benefits of coconut milk for hair.
Coconut Milk Benefits for Hair
Coconut milk is rich in protein and other nutrients and this makes its intake good for healthy hair growth. Apart from that, coconut milk is one of the popular and effective kitchen remedies for better hair. Topical application of coconut milk is claimed to boost hair growth, apart from countering dandruff, hair fall and graying of hair. It has also been observed that use of coconut milk on hair can make your mane softer. Coconut milk is also used for hair straightening. In such case, this product is used in combination with other materials, like, lemon juice. It is also used as a hair conditioner. Now, that you have a fair idea about the use of coconut milk for hair, let us take a look at the various modes of using this product for hair care.
How to Use Coconut Milk for Hair
You may get ready made coconut milk from certain supermarkets, but freshly squeezed homemade ones are always preferred for both culinary as well cosmetic purposes. Once you are done with the coconut milk preparation, all you have to do is to massage it (preferably in lukewarm condition) on the scalp. Gentle massage is always preferred. Leave it for at least an hour, before rinsing it with lukewarm water. You may use a small amount of herbal shampoo to wash the hair. Repeat this procedure at least once a week for faster results. Such use of coconut oil may arrest hair loss and may also result in hair growth. It is also said to be a good remedy for one of the common hair problems, i.e. dandruff. Regular use of coconut milk and/or coconut oil is also found to reduce the rate of graying.
In order to boost the health and sheen of hair, you may apply a mixture of coconut milk and gram flour. For a cup of coconut milk, you need two tablespoons of gram flour. Apply this mix on the hair and scalp and rinse off after an hour, using a herbal shampoo. Coconut milk mixed with a few drops of lime juice is also used as a home remedy for curbing hair loss. Some people add aloe vera gel to coconut milk and use this mixture for hair care. Coconut milk mixed with equal amount of amla (Indian gooseberry) oil is also said to work wonders for hair. Coconut milk is also used for hair straightening. This is done with mixing coconut milk and lime juice. Extract milk from half a coconut and add the juice of half a lemon into it. Combine them well and place the mixture in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. Take out the bowl and remove the cream that forms on the top of the bowl. Apply it on the hair and cover it with a towel. Rinse off with a mild shampoo, after an hour. Apart from making the hair shiny, this procedure is said to make it straight. Repeat this twice a week, for best results.
In short, use of coconut milk for hair is beneficial in making your tresses healthy and lustrous. The above said are some of the popular methods of using coconut milk for hair growth and to prevent hair fall and graying. So, you may try this natural remedy, instead of spending fortunes on commercial cosmetic products.
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