As we age, many of us experience the inevitable appearance of grey hair. While some embrace this change, others search for ways to reclaim their natural hair color. My nana, who’s always been known for her natural remedies and old-world wisdom, shared a trick that she swears by to turn grey hair back to its natural color with almost no effort.
After seeing the results for myself, I couldn’t wait to share her secret. Here’s how it works and why you might want to try it.
The Surprising Cause of Grey Hair
Before diving into Nana’s trick, it’s important to understand why hair turns grey in the first place. Our hair gets its color from melanin, a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes in hair follicles. As we age, these melanocytes gradually produce less melanin, leading to a loss of color. Genetics, stress, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies can accelerate this process.
While most people believe grey hair is an irreversible sign of aging, recent studies suggest that in some cases, grey hair can regain its natural color if the right conditions are met. That’s where Nana’s trick comes into play.
Nana’s Trick: The Power of Black Sesame Seeds
My nana’s trick to restoring natural hair color is surprisingly simple: black sesame seeds. She has been consuming them daily for years, and at 75, she still has remarkably vibrant and dark hair. Here’s how black sesame seeds work their magic:
1. Nutrient-Rich Powerhouse
Black sesame seeds are packed with essential nutrients such as copper, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamins B1 and E. These nutrients are vital for maintaining healthy hair and skin. In particular, copper plays a crucial role in melanin production, which is the pigment responsible for hair color. By boosting copper levels, black sesame seeds may help restore natural hair color.
2. Rich in Antioxidants
These tiny seeds are also rich in antioxidants like sesamin and sesamolin, which help combat oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage melanocytes, accelerating the greying process. Antioxidants help protect these cells, potentially slowing down or even reversing grey hair.
3. Promoting Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. Black sesame seeds are known to improve blood circulation, which can help nourish hair follicles and maintain their pigment-producing abilities. Improved circulation means that more nutrients reach the scalp, creating an optimal environment for hair to thrive.
How to Use Black Sesame Seeds for Hair Rejuvenation
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Using black sesame seeds is incredibly simple and requires almost no effort, making it a perfect addition to your daily routine. Here’s how to incorporate them:
Raw Consumption: The most straightforward method is to eat a tablespoon of raw black sesame seeds daily. You can sprinkle them on your salads, yogurt, or cereal, or simply eat them by themselves.
Smoothies and Shakes: Add a tablespoon of black sesame seeds to your morning smoothie or shake. They blend easily and add a mild, nutty flavor.
Sesame Seed Paste: You can also make a paste by grinding black sesame seeds with a little water or honey. This paste can be consumed directly or spread on toast.
Sesame Seed Oil: Although consuming whole seeds is more beneficial, you can also use black sesame seed oil in your cooking or as a salad dressing for a more subtle way to include them in your diet.
The Science Behind the Magic
While Nana’s remedy might sound like an old wives’ tale, there’s some scientific backing to her claims. Studies have shown that the nutrients found in black sesame seeds, particularly copper and B vitamins, can contribute to hair pigmentation. Although more research is needed to conclusively prove that black sesame seeds can reverse grey hair, the existing evidence is promising.
Additionally, a 2019 study published in the “Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology” found that a diet rich in antioxidants could help reduce oxidative stress in hair follicles, potentially slowing down the greying process. Given that black sesame seeds are rich in antioxidants, they could be a valuable addition to a hair-healthy diet.
What to Expect
If you decide to try Nana’s trick, it’s important to manage your expectations. Reversing grey hair naturally takes time and consistency. Most people start to notice changes after a few months of regular consumption. Also, results can vary depending on the cause of greying and individual differences in metabolism and absorption of nutrients.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Hair Color Naturally
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