Mustard Oil for Hair: Why Does it Work Wonders for Hair?

Hair fall, dandruff, dryness, and premature greying are common concerns that affect people of all ages. While the market is full of chemical-based treatments, there is a renewed interest in traditional remedies that have stood the test of time. One such remedy is mustard oil for hair, known in India as sarson ka tel. 

From Ayurvedic scriptures to household rituals, mustard oil has been trusted for nourishing the scalp, strengthening roots, and enhancing hair health. Today, modern studies are beginning to validate some of these age-old practices, making mustard oil an important part of both traditional and modern hair care routines.

Benefits of Mustard Oil

The benefits of mustard oil go beyond hair care. It is widely recognized for its role in overall health and wellness.

• Hair Health: Strengthens roots, prevents breakage, reduces dandruff, and delays greying
  
  

• Skin Care: Used as a natural moisturizer in massages
  
  

• Heart Health: Rich in healthy fats that support cardiovascular function
  
  

• Immunity Boost: Antioxidants protect cells from free radical damage
  
  

• Cooking Benefits: Enhances flavour in traditional Indian dishes and preserves pickles naturally
  
  

When discussing the benefits of mustard oil, hair care remains its most widely acknowledged use, especially in Indian households.

Why Choose Anveshan Mustard Oil

Not all oils are created equal. At Anveshan, mustard oil extracted under 40°C, bringing together the best of tradition and science in hygienic, stainless-steel kolhus. High-grade native seeds are slowly pressed using low RPM motors, so that the temperature never crosses 40°C, ensuring maximum nutrient retention. Unlike refined oils that go through chemical processing and adulteration, Anveshan Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil remains pure, rich in antioxidants, and safe for both cooking and topical application.

• Cold-pressed for maximum nutrition
  
  

• Free from chemicals and artificial additives
  
  

• Directly sourced from farmers for traceable purity

For those who want authentic and unrefined mustard oil for hair and cooking, Anveshan provides a trusted choice.

Black vs Yellow Mustard Oil

Mustard oil comes in two primary varieties, each with its own characteristics:

• Black Mustard Oil (Sarson Tel): Strong, pungent, and nutrient-dense. Traditionally used for pickles, curries, and scalp massages.
  
  

• Yellow Mustard Oil (Peeli Sarson Tel): Lighter in taste and aroma. Preferred for cooking lighter dishes and for those sensitive to strong smells.

For hair care, black mustard oil is often favored due to its potency. For cooking, yellow mustard oil offers a milder balance without overwhelming the dish. Knowing the difference between black and yellow mustard oil helps in choosing the right type based on personal needs.

Mustard Oil for Hair: Science-Backed Benefits

Stimulates Hair Growth

Massaging with mustard oil improves scalp blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to follicles, which can support stronger growth.

Reduces Dandruff and Itchiness

Its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties fight dandruff-causing microbes, keeping the scalp healthy.

Strengthens Roots and Reduces Hair Fall

Rich in proteins, minerals, and omega fatty acids, mustard oil strengthens the hair shaft and reduces breakage-related hair fall.

Prevents Dryness and Adds Shine

Mustard oil coats the strands, locking in moisture and giving hair a soft, glossy texture.

May Delay Premature Greying

With vitamin E and antioxidants, mustard oil protects pigment cells and helps maintain natural hair color longer.

Mustard Oil for Cooking

While widely used for hair care, mustard oil is equally valuable in the kitchen.

• Rich in MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids) that support heart health
  
  

• Natural preservative commonly used in pickling
  
  

• Adds authentic regional flavour to curries, marinades, and stir-fries

When choosing mustard oil for cooking, always ensure it is cold-pressed and chemical-free. This way, it retains both its nutritional profile and authentic taste.

Flavour Profile of Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is famous for its distinct taste and aroma.

• Raw mustard oil: Strong, pungent, and sharp, often described as nose-tingling
  
  

• Cooked mustard oil: Mellowed, nutty, and earthy, blending seamlessly with spices

This unique flavor profile makes mustard oil a defining ingredient in Bengali fish curries, Punjabi pickles, and Assamese stir-fried dishes.

DIY Recipes with Mustard Oil for Hair

Pure Mustard Oil Massage

• Warm 3–4 tbsp mustard oil.
  
  

• Massage into scalp for 10–15 minutes.
  
  

• Wrap a warm towel around the head for better absorption.
  
  

• Leave for 1–2 hours or overnight.
  
  

• Wash with mild shampoo.
  
  

Mustard Oil + Coconut Oil Blend

• Mix equal parts mustard oil and coconut oil.
  
  

• Apply from roots to tips.
  
  

• Leave for 1–2 hours before washing.
  
  

Mustard Oil Infused with Fenugreek

• Heat 3 tbsp mustard oil with 1 tsp fenugreek seeds.
  
  

• Strain, cool, and store.
  
  

• Massage into scalp twice a week for dandruff control.
  
  

Mustard Oil + Aloe Vera Gel

• Mix 2 tbsp mustard oil with 2 tbsp aloe vera gel.
  
  

• Apply evenly across scalp and strands.
  
  

• Leave for 30 minutes before washing.
  
  

Mustard Oil + Egg Pack

• Mix 1 whisked egg with 2 tbsp mustard oil.
  
  

• Apply as a mask for 20–30 minutes.
  
  

• Rinse with cold water and mild shampoo.
  
  

Safety and Precautions

• Always perform a patch test before using mustard oil on the scalp.
  
  

• Limit application to 2–3 times per week to prevent buildup.
  
  

• Wash thoroughly with mild shampoo to remove residue.
  
  

• Avoid use on infants or people with scalp eczema.
  
  

• Choose cold-pressed mustard oil for safe and effective results.

Tips for Using Mustard Oil in Daily Routine

• Warm the oil before applying to improve absorption.
  
  

• Mix with lighter oils if you find it too thick.
  
  

• Add essential oils like rosemary or lavender to reduce pungency.
  
  

• Pair external use with a balanced diet to support hair growth from within.
  
  

Mustard Oil vs Other Hair Oils

 

FAQs

Does mustard oil regrow hair?
It supports scalp circulation and follicle nourishment, but cannot reverse genetic baldness.

Can mustard oil reduce hair fall?
Yes, by strengthening roots and preventing breakage, it reduces hair fall caused by weak strands.

Is it safe to leave mustard oil overnight?
For most people, yes. Sensitive scalps may prefer 1–2 hour application.

Does mustard oil preserve natural hair color?
It may help delay premature greying due to antioxidants, though evidence is limited.

How to remove mustard oil smell from hair?
Mix with coconut oil, use herbal shampoo, or rinse with lemon water.