Amla Oil For Hair: Benefits and How to Use it

For centuries, many traditional medicinal systems, including Chinese herbal medicine, Tibetan medicine, and Ayurveda have used the amla plant to treat various ailments. The most valuable part of the plant—its fruit—has potent antioxidants that studies have shown to possess anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cardio-protective qualities. From this fruit, practitioners derive a valuable resource for improving hair health: amla oil. To help us understand the potential effects of amla oil on hair, we turned to the experts.

What Is Amla Oil?

Amla oil is derived from the fruit of the amla plant, commonly referred to as "Indian gooseberry" or gooseberry. Oil can be obtained from the fruit itself or the dried fruit can be made into a powder which can then be incorporated into hair and beauty products.

Amla oil has maintained its popularity in Eastern medicine for generations due to its powers as a restorative digestive agent, as well as a trusted hair tonic. It has been credited with restoring growth and health to hair and even preventing graying, but much research still needs to be done to determine the validity of these claims.

The Benefits of Amla Oil for Hair

Amla oil is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and antioxidants, all of which might contribute to cellular regeneration and promote healthy circulation to the blood vessels in the scalp. These properties may help to facilitate hair and skin growth and boost the overall health of the scalp. Shamban emphasizes that more research is needed to definitively prove a correlation between amla oil and hair growth, as "any indication that application is an actual natural hair growth remedy in terms of activating follicles or inducing the metabolic functions of the anagen phase of growth, seems to be underwhelming."

Amla oil also contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities. Amla may reduce inflammation of the scalp and, as a result, curb oil production, with Ogboru noting that it "helps with sebum regulation by soaking in all the excess oil present on scalp and conditioning [the scalp]." The antibacterial powers of amla oil may help to prevent dandruff and itching of the scalp.

• Moisturizer for dry hair: The juice and oil from the amla plant are extremely hydrating. Ogboru explains that Amla is highly moisturizing, which can help to nourish dry, brittle strands.
• Antiseptic dandruff prevention: The antibacterial nature of amla oil may help to prevent the formation of dandruff and treat other causes of itching on the scalp.
• Strengthens hair: Shamban notes that amla oil is rich in phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which add shine and strength and support moisture. By incorporating amla oil into your hair care routine, hair may become healthier and more resilient.
• Protects the hair cuticle: Ogboru explains that "the hair cuticle is the outermost part of the hair shaft that protects it from external factors like excessive heat, dust, pollution, hard water, and hair styling choices. Amla oil as an antioxidant shields our hair from these various damaging external factors."
• Can prevent hair loss: While more research is needed to determine the efficacy of amla oil in promoting hair growth, its ability to strengthen hair may help to prevent breakage.

How to Use Amla Oil for Hair

Amla oil can be applied topically or taken in oral form. While there may be benefits to amla oil for overall health, those looking to capture its hair-boosting qualities should stick to topical applications. Shamban warns that there is a "wide range of potency in the [oral supplements] and it’s not well regulated at this time." Ogboru adds that taking amla orally is not as effective as a topical application for the cosmetic purposes of the supplement.

• Apply the oil as a treatment: Amla oil can be applied directly to the hair and scalp (after patch testing). The oil can then be left in as a conditioning treatment or washed out.
• Create a mask: Using the powdered form of amla and water or oil, make a paste and apply it evenly to the scalp. Massage the paste into the roots of your hair to ensure it reaches the skin of your scalp. Ogboru also recommends using it with other Indian herbs like turmeric, bhringraj, and saffron to make an excellent scalp treatment. 
• Use as a pre-wash detangler: Apply the oil to unwashed hair before shampooing. Make sure to work through the hair and use the hydrating nature of the oil to assist with detangling. If you don't have time to let it sit in your hair, use a blow dryer to heat and activate the oil for a short period before showering and shampooing.

Possible Side Effects

Amla oil is not associated with any known side effects, though both experts note that with any holistic treatment, a small patch test should be conducted in an inconspicuous area (such as the back of the head) to ensure there are no issues with sensitivity or irritation. Amla oil can cause irritation, particularly among those with sensitive skin, so it's best to try it on a small area of the scalp or skin first.

Does Amla Oil Work For All Hair Types?

Our experts agree that amla oil would be appropriate for all hair types and textures, but would be especially helpful for those with dry, brittle hair and oily scalps. The combination of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and antioxidants may help to hydrate and protect the hair follicle, while potentially regulating the production of sebum on the scalp.

Shop the Best Hair Products with Amla Oil

Fable & Mane SahaScalp Amla Soothing Serum $34.00

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This soothing serum aims to do just that—soothe the scalp with a blend of botanicals, including amla. It's lightweight and suitable for sensitive types and helps ease flakiness and dryness, to boot.

IFK Bad & Bougie Amla Oil Deep Repair Conditioner $27.00

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This super-rich conditioner works on several hair types, from straight to tightly coiled. It's gentle enough for everyday use and can be used on ends for a few minutes at a time before being thoroughly washed out. While it works instantly to smooth the hair, it can help ease frizz with continued use.

Dabur Amla Gold Hair Oil $8.00

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This no-frills, affordable product promises long, strong and soft hair. That's thanks to the ingredients, which include amla oil, almonds, and henna. Meant to be used as a mask or treatment, the oil can be massaged into the scalp and left for several hours at a time.

Derma-E Reparative Styling Hair Repair Oil $13.00

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Chaga mushrooms and jojoba combine with amla oil in this reparative product, which is great to apply on wet or damp hair. Just be sure to concentrate the product on the ends so it can repair without adding weight or greasiness to the roots.