Benefits Of Myrrh Essential Oil For Hair Health & Myrrh Oil Uses

Overview

Imagine incorporating a natural remedy into your hair care routine that not only promotes hair growth but also strengthens your hair, treats dandruff, and adds an enviable shine. Myrrh oil can do all that and more. This essential oil, often used in aromatherapy and skincare, is making waves in the hair care industry for its ability to address various hair concerns. Whether you are struggling with hair loss, dryness, or scalp infections, myrrh oil can be your go-to solution. Myrrh oil is rich in astringent, anti-microbial, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help in dealing with many different skin and hair conditions. 

When it comes to natural hair care, myrrh oil stands out as a versatile and beneficial essential oil. Derived from the resin of the Commiphora tree, myrrh oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and beauty rituals.

The process of extracting myrrh oil is fascinating. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark of the Commiphora tree, allowing the sap to ooze out and harden into beads. These beads are then collected and steam-distilled to produce myrrh essential oil. This meticulous process ensures that the oil retains its potent properties, making it a valuable addition to your hair care regimen.

In this article, we are going to discuss in detail the benefits of myrrh oil for your hair, and how it can be used to improve the overall health of your hair and scalp. 

Myrrh Oil Benefits for Hair

1. Promotes Hair Growth

Myrrh oil is renowned for its ability to stimulate hair growth. The essential oil helps promote blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen needed for healthy growth. Regular use of myrrh oil can enhance the natural hair cycle, leading to thicker and fuller hair.

2. Prevents Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a distressing issue, but myrrh oil offers a natural solution. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation, which is often a contributing factor to hair loss. Additionally, myrrh oil strengthens hair roots and follicles, making hair less prone to falling out.

3. Moisturizes and Nourishes

Dry hair can be a significant concern, leading to breakage and damage. Myrrh oil helps moisturize and nourish the hair shaft, thanks to its rich content of fatty acids and other nutrients. It locks in moisture, making hair softer and more manageable.

4. Treats Dandruff and Scalp Infections

Myrrh oil's antifungal and antibacterial properties make it effective in treating dandruff and scalp infections. Applying myrrh oil to the scalp can help cleanse and purify it, reducing flakiness and itchiness associated with dandruff.

5. Strengthens Hair

Weak and brittle hair can benefit greatly from myrrh oil. The essential oil helps strengthen the hair strands from the root to the tip, reducing breakage and split ends. This leads to healthier and more resilient hair.

6. Protects Against Environmental Damage

Environmental factors such as pollution and UV rays can cause significant damage to hair. Myrrh oil acts as a protective barrier, shielding hair from these harmful elements. Its antioxidant properties also help neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and damage.

Uses of Myrrh Essential Oil for Hair

1. Scalp Massage

A regular scalp massage with myrrh oil can do wonders for hair health. To create a nourishing scalp massage oil, mix a few drops of myrrh oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil. Massage this blend into your scalp for about 10-15 minutes to stimulate blood circulation and promote hair growth.

2. Hair Mask

Myrrh oil can be incorporated into hair masks for deep conditioning. Combine a few drops of myrrh oil with organic coconut oil, organic castor oil, and a teaspoon of honey. Apply this mask to your hair, focusing on the ends and damaged areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo.

3. Hair Rinse

For a refreshing hair rinse, add a few drops of myrrh oil to a bowl of warm water. After shampooing, rinse your hair with this mixture to cleanse the scalp and impart a subtle earthy fragrance to your hair.

4. Leave-In Conditioner

Myrrh oil can also be used as a leave-in conditioner. Mix a few drops of myrrh oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz it onto your hair after washing. This will help lock in moisture and keep your hair hydrated throughout the day.

5. DIY Hair Serum

Create a DIY hair serum by combining myrrh oil with argan oil and sweet orange oil. This blend will help tame frizz, add shine, and nourish your hair. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair and style as usual.

6. Anti-Dandruff Treatment

To combat dandruff, mix a few drops of myrrh oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 20 minutes before washing it off. Regular use of this treatment will help keep dandruff at bay.

DIY Recipes Using Myrrh Oil

Recipe #1 - Nourishing Hair Growth Serum

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of myrrh essential oil
• 10 drops of rosemary essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon of castor oil

Instructions:

1. Combine all the oils in a small glass bottle.
2. Shake well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Apply a few drops of the serum to your scalp and massage gently for 5-10 minutes.
4. Leave it on overnight and wash your hair the next morning.

Benefits:

This serum stimulates hair growth, strengthens hair follicles, and nourishes the scalp. The combination of myrrh, rosemary, and castor oil provides a potent blend for promoting thicker and healthier hair.

Recipe #2 - Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of myrrh essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of organic coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of yogurt

Instructions:

1. Melt the coconut oil if it is solid and mix it with honey and yogurt in a bowl.
2. Add myrrh oil and stir until well combined.
3. Apply the mask to your hair, focusing on the ends and damaged areas.
4. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the mask on for 30 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly and shampoo your hair as usual.

Benefits:

This deep conditioning mask hydrates and nourishes dry and damaged hair, leaving it soft and shiny. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of myrrh oil help maintain a healthy scalp.

Recipe #3 - Anti-Dandruff Scalp Treatment

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of almond oil

Instructions:

1. Mix all the oils in a small bowl.
2. Part your hair and apply the mixture directly to your scalp using a dropper.
3. Massage gently for 5-10 minutes.
4. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off with a gentle shampoo.

Benefits:

This treatment helps eliminate dandruff and soothes an itchy scalp. The antifungal properties of tea tree oil combined with the nourishing effects of myrrh oil ensure a flake-free scalp.

Recipe #4 - Frizz Control Hair Serum

Ingredients:

• 3 drops of myrrh essential oil
• 3 drops of lavender essential oil
• 1 tablespoon of argan oil

Instructions:

1. Combine the oils in a small glass bottle.
2. Shake well to blend the ingredients.
3. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair to control frizz and add shine.

Benefits:

This serum tames frizz, adds shine, and nourishes the hair. The calming aroma of lavender oil combined with myrrh oil's benefits makes it a perfect addition to your hair care routine.

Recipe #5 - Hair Strengthening Oil Blend

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops of frankincense essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of grapeseed oil

Instructions:

1. Mix the essential oils with grapeseed oil in a bowl.
2. Massage the blend into your scalp and hair.
3. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Rinse thoroughly and shampoo your hair.

Benefits:

This blend strengthens hair strands, reduces breakage, and promotes healthy hair growth. Frankincense oil adds additional benefits for scalp health and hair strength.

Risks and Precautions of Using Myrrh Oil for Hair

While myrrh oil can be a beneficial addition to your hair care routine, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and necessary precautions to ensure safe use.

1. Skin Irritation 

Myrrh oil is a potent essential oil, and applying it directly to the scalp without proper dilution can cause skin irritation, redness, or a burning sensation. Always perform a patch test before using it extensively. Mix a few drops of myrrh oil with a carrier oil like almond oil or jojoba oil and apply it to a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions.

2. Allergic Reactions 

Some individuals may be allergic to myrrh oil. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

3. Sun Sensitivity 

Myrrh oil can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, potentially leading to sunburn or other skin damage when exposed to UV rays. To avoid this, do not apply myrrh oil to your scalp or hair if you plan to be in the sun for an extended period. If you need to go outside, wear a hat or use a product that provides UV protection.

4. Hormonal Effects 

Myrrh oil can potentially affect hormone levels. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have hormonal imbalances, it is best to avoid using myrrh oil or consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your routine.

5. Proper Storage 

Store myrrh oil in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from degrading. Exposure to heat, light, and air can cause the oil to lose its effectiveness and increase the risk of skin irritation.

6. Dilution 

Always dilute myrrh oil with a carrier oil before applying it to your scalp or hair. A safe dilution ratio is typically 2-3 drops of myrrh oil per tablespoon of carrier oil.

7. Patch Test 

Conduct a patch test before full application to ensure you do not have an adverse reaction. Apply the diluted oil to a small patch of skin and wait 24 hours to check for any signs of irritation or allergy.

8. Moderation

Use myrrh oil in moderation. Overuse can lead to skin irritation and other adverse effects. Limit the use to 2-3 times a week unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Incorporating myrrh oil into your hair care routine can offer numerous benefits, enhancing both the health and appearance of your hair. Myrrh is a natural essential oil with a long history of use dating back to ancient civilizations. Myrrh is a resin and essential oil known for its potent properties and versatility.

Myrrh oil has powerful properties that can tighten and strengthen hair follicles, promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. Myrrh has been used topically for centuries due to its ability to nourish and protect the scalp, ensuring a healthy environment for hair to thrive. Myrrh can also help with dandruff and other scalp conditions due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Applying myrrh oil topically can improve blood circulation to the scalp, enhancing nutrient delivery and promoting overall hair health. The many benefits of myrrh oil extend beyond hair care; it also supports scalp health by balancing oil production, soothing irritation, and preventing infections. When used as part of a comprehensive hair care routine, myrrh oil can help achieve healthy, shiny, and resilient hair.

In summary, myrrh oil is a versatile and effective natural remedy for various hair concerns. Its natural astringent properties, combined with its antiviral properties, make it an essential addition to your hair care arsenal. Whether you are dealing with hair loss, dandruff, or simply looking to enhance the overall health of your hair, myrrh oil offers a myriad of benefits.