Curcumin is the main polyphenol in turmeric, known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties are especially important for the scalp and hair follicles.
A biological study published on the basis of PubMed data shows that curcumin has the ability to reduce oxidative stress and activate the autophagy process in hair follicle cells, thereby helping to improve the hair growth environment.
Turmeric can affect hair growth through many different mechanisms.
First, reduce scalp inflammation. Chronic inflammation around hair follicles can weaken hair roots and make hair fall out easily. Curcumin has the ability to inhibit inflammatory factors and protect hair follicle cells from damage.
Second, anti-oxidative stress. Free radicals are one of the causes of premature hair follicles aging. Curcumin has the ability to neutralize free radicals and help improve the biological environment around hair follicles.
Third, affects hormones related to hair loss. Some studies show that curcumin can inhibit the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme involved in converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) - a hormone related to male-style hair loss.
Thanks to these mechanisms, turmeric is considered one of the natural medicinal herbs with potential to support hair loss control.
Nutrition and dermatologists believe that turmeric can be used in many different ways to support hair health.
Turmeric can be added to dishes such as soup, curry or turmeric milk. When eating turmeric, the body absorbs curcumin - a compound that helps fight inflammation and improve overall health, thereby indirectly supporting hair follicles.
Use turmeric mask for scalp
Some people use a mixture of fresh turmeric blended with coconut oil or honey to gently massage on the scalp. This method helps provide antioxidant compounds directly to the scalp and improve blood circulation in hair follicles.
Combining turmeric with black pepper
Curcumin is difficult to absorb in the body. Nutrition studies show that when combined with piperine in black pepper, the absorption of curcumin can be significantly increased. This helps the body better utilize the biological benefits of turmeric.
