How to prepare and use Saunf Oil to stop hair fall – Times of India

Hair fall is one problem that people of different ages and races experience. Several treatments and products are now sold in the market that aims to halt hair fall. There are, though, some who use natural remedies which are safer and holistic for them. One of these remedies is the saunf oil derived from fennel seeds popularly known as saunf. This oil is praised for several benefits about one’s health. It enhances hair growth and also reduces falling hair. Let’s describe how you can make a home made saunf oil and use it towards fighting hair loss.

Understand fennel seeds

Fennel seeds, also known as “saunf” in Hindi, are not only used as a spice in cooking but are also an important ingredient in traditional medicine. Fennel seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Fennel seeds contain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which may help improve overall health, including hair health. The essential oils in fennel seeds stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, promote hair growth, and strengthen hair follicles.

How to make Saunf Oil at home

Preparing saunf oil at home is easy and requires no fancy ingredients or equipment. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to do it at home:
Ingredients:
2 tbsp fennel seeds
1 cup carrier oil: coconut oil, olive oil, or almond oil
A glass jar with a lid
A small saucepan
A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

Instructions:
Prepare the fennel seeds: Lightly crush the fennel seeds in order that their essential oils be released. This can be achieved using a mortar and pestle, or you just put the seeds in a plastic bag and roll a rolling pin over them.
Heat the carrier oil: Place your chosen carrier oil in a small saucepan and heat it on a low flame. Do not let the oil boil. It should be warm but not boiling.
Infuse the fennel seeds: Once the oil is warm, add crushed fennel seeds into the saucepan. You have to stir well so that the seeds are evenly spread in the oil.
Simmer the mixture: Allow the mixture to slowly simmer for 20-30 minutes. This infuses the oil with the properties of the fennel seeds. Check on it periodically so that the seeds do not burn.
Cool and strain: Take the saucepan away from the heat, allow it to cool until the mixture reaches room temperature, cool, and then transfer it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to a glass jar; wring out as much oil from the seeds as you possibly can.
Store the Saunf Oil: Tightly seal the jar and keep it in a cool, dark place. If kept appropriately, the oil can remain good for months.

How to use Saunf Oil for hair fall

Now that you have your homemade saunf oil, it’s time to introduce it into your hair care routine. Here are some effective methods of using sauf oil for hair fall:
Scalp Massage: Saunf oil can be applied really effectively if administered with a gentle scalp massage. It aids in bringing blood circulation to the hair follicles to encourage the oil to seep inside and get absorbed properly. Here’s how it’s done:

Take a little saunf oil in your palms and warm it a little.
Divide your hair into sections, and pour the oil directly on your scalp.
Use your fingertips and massage the oil into the scalp in circular motions for about 10-15 minutes.
Focus your concentration on the areas from where hair fall is prominent
Apply it overnight or the minimum of 30 minutes before shampooing for optimal results.
Hot oil treatment: A hot oil treatment undertaken with sauf oil not only nourishes the hair and the scalp but does it thoroughly.

Rub oil all over your scalp and hair, making sure every strand is covered.
Place a shower cap or warm towel on it and let it sit for 1-2 hours and then wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
This oil can be mixed with other beneficial oils such as castor oil and rosemary oil to help maximize the inhibition of hair fall.
Mix equal amounts of saunf oil and castor oil and apply it to your scalp and hair.
Leave it overnight for some hours before washing.
Leave-in treatment: You could use a few drops of saunf oil as a leave-in conditioner for added shine and nourishment. After you have done the wash, take a few drops of saunf oil and rub between the palms.
Apply it on to the ends of your hair so that you do not develop dryness and split ends.