Amla Oil: Benefits, Side Effects, and Preparations

Gone are the days when products were made from synthetically derived chemical ingredients. Today, the world demands natural products. Plant-based products are all the rage now. Amongst the sea of natural oils, one that stands out, when it comes to maintaining hair health, is Amla oil. Containing extracts of Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus Emblica), Amla oil is said to be beneficial for hair growth, hair strengthening, dandruff and premature graying. 

The oil is prepared by immersing dried Amla fruits in a base oil for a few days. The base oil can be coconut, sesame or mineral oil. This process of soaking the fruit helps it in releasing its own oil which is later filtered and purified. 

In Ayurveda, gooseberries are said to contain kashaya or astringent properties. It has a high Vitamin C content, filled with natural antioxidants known as polyphenols and flavonoids. Thus, the list becomes too long when we speak of Amla oil benefits for hair, let’s take a quick look at some of them:

• Moisturization - Amla oil thoroughly nourishes dry and frizzy hair.
• Anti-dandruff - with its antibacterial nature, Amla oil reduces inflammation and dandruff.  
• Hair strengthening - since it is rich in phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals, amla benefits for hair include strengthening and providing extra shine to hair.
• Prevents hair loss - according to a published study, amla extracts are believed to be an inhibitor of 5-alpha-reductase. This is the same enzyme that is used in oral drug treatment for male pattern baldness. 

Apart from these amla benefits for hair, it is also believed to have anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties and helps in increasing immunity.

Amla oil can be used in multiple ways, depending on what exactly you are looking for. You can use it as a hair treatment oil, by applying it directly to the hair and scalp. Leave it on as you do with some conditioners or wash it off. If you are looking to detangle your hair, apply it on hair before shampooing. The oil will help in smoothing out tangled hair. Work on the tangles and then wash it off.

Though fresh amla fruit is seasonal and is harvested between October and March, amla products are available throughout the year online at Purplle. 

Here are some best Amla oil brands for hair growth:

1. Mamaearth BhringAmla Hair Oil with Bhringraj & Amla for Intense Hair Treatment

For a healthy and strong scalp, this product is immensely effective. It is made of 15 medicinal herbs (Jadi Buti), including amla and bhringraj, which keep hair sm ooth and voluminous. Vitamin C helps in stimulating melanin production and fights  premature graying and dullness. 

2. Deve Herbes Pure Amla Oil (Emblica officinalis) with Glass Dropper 100% Natural Therapeutic Grade

This pure Amla oil for hair growth stimulates hair roots and scalp. With its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, it protects cells against free radical damage, prevents dandruff and infections. The pure Amla oil is also used in prevention of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. 

3. Wow Skin Science Amla Hair Oil Pure Cold Pressed Indian Gooseberry Oil

Rich in antioxidants, minerals, vitamin E, omega fatty acids, this Amla oil boosts blood circulation in the scalp, strengthens hair roots, reduces dryness and itchiness, and fights dandruff. It has many other natural cold pressed oils like virgin olive oil, sweet almond oil, Moroccan argan oil, castor oil and coconut oil. 

4. Good Vibes Amla & Bhringraj Strengthening Hair Oil

With amla and bhringraj, this is one of the best Amla oils for hair growth. While amla makes hair follicles strong and healthy, bhringraj prevents premature graying and dandruff. Leave it on overnight to have strong, shiny hair. 

FAQs

1. How long can I store the oil to get amla benefits for hair?

Amla oil has an extended shelf life. One can store it at room temperature for close to three years. This duration can vary as per the use of the base oil and the production technique. One should never use an amla product after the expiry date.

2. What are some of the side effects of Amla oil?

Though assumed to be safe, it can still have some side effects. Those allergic to gooseberries may suffer from contact dermatitis when one applies Amla oil to the skin. People can suffer from skin problems because of the base oil and not the fruit extract. For example, mineral oil can cause skin irritation. If you use low-quality Amla oil, it can result in potential skin inflammation.