The Benefits of Amla Oil for Hair Growth: Nature's Secret for Stronger, Healthier Hair

by Rachel Akindele

"And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.’" — Genesis 1:29

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult a healthcare professional before using any new products, especially if pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.

What is Amla Oil?

Amla oil is a natural oil extracted from the Indian gooseberry fruit, also known as Phyllanthus emblica. It is a staple in Ayurvedic hair care traditions due to its rich antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Where Does Amla Oil Come From?

Amla originates from the Indian gooseberry tree, native to India and commonly found across other Asian countries like China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

There are two primary methods of extracting Amla oil:

  1. Cold-Pressed Extraction: This method involves crushing seeds, fruits, or nuts without using high heat. It helps retain the oil's nutritional and therapeutic properties, making it ideal for health-conscious users.
  2. Infused Oil Method: This process involves sun-drying the gooseberries, grinding them into a fine powder, and infusing the powder into a base oil like coconut oil. The oil absorbs the nutrients over time.

What Are the Benefits of Amla Oil?

"But ask the animals, and they will teach you... ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you... Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?" — Job 12:7-10

1. Promotes Hair Growth

Amla oil is rich in vitamin C, which boosts collagen production. Collagen strengthens the hair shaft and reduces breakage, contributing to longer, healthier hair. Some sources claim it contains up to 20 times more vitamin C than oranges.

Studies have shown Amla's effectiveness in promoting hair growth, potentially rivaling synthetic treatments like Minoxidil. Though more research is needed, results so far are promising for addressing alopecia and thinning.

2. Reduces Dandruff

Thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities, Amla oil helps calm the scalp, balance sebum production, and reduce flakiness—making it an effective dandruff treatment.

3. Delays Premature Greying

Amla enhances melanin production, the pigment responsible for hair color. Regular use may slow the greying process and promote a darker, more youthful appearance.

4. Moisturizes and Improves Hair Texture

Unlike many oils that sit on the surface, Amla oil (especially when used with penetrating base oils) can absorb into the hair shaft. This improves moisture retention, reduces brittleness, and enhances shine.

How to Use Amla Oil

  • Hot Oil Treatment: Gently warm the oil and massage it into your scalp for 5 minutes. Leave on for 2 hours or overnight, then rinse with a sulfate-free shampoo.
  • Leave-in Scalp Massage: Apply a few drops to the scalp post-wash to lock in moisture and nutrients.

Use 2-3 times weekly for best results.

Cautions & Warnings

  • Perform a patch test before full application.
  • Avoid use during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Where to Find Amla Oil

You can find Amla oil at Indian or Asian grocery stores, specialty Ayurvedic shops, or reputable online retailers.

DIY Amla Hair Growth Oil Recipe

Purpose: Boost hair growth, reduce shedding, and strengthen roots.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Warm Amla, Castor, and Coconut oils gently over low heat.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in essential oils.
  3. (Optional) If using fenugreek, infuse during heating and strain before bottling.
  4. Let cool and store in a dark glass bottle.

Application: Massage into the scalp, leave for a few hours or overnight, and rinse. Use 2-3 times per week.

🌿 DIY: How to Make Amla Oil at Home (From Fresh or Dried Amla)

Purpose: Create a nutrient-rich, homemade Amla oil for hair growth, scalp nourishment, and shine—without preservatives or synthetic additives.

🧪 Ingredients:

  • ½ cup dried amla pieces or ¼ cup amla powder (organic preferred)

  • 1 cup carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil, sesame oil, or olive oil)

  • Optional: 1 tsp fenugreek seeds for added hair strengthening

  • Glass jar with tight lid

  • Cheesecloth or strainer

  • Dark glass bottle for storage

🔥 Method 1: Sun-Infused Amla Oil (Traditional Ayurvedic Method)

  1. Prepare Amla:
    Use dried amla pieces or amla powder. If using fresh amla, slice it thinly and dry it in the sun for several days until completely dehydrated.

  2. Infuse the Oil:
    Add the amla (and optional fenugreek seeds) to your glass jar. Pour in the carrier oil and stir well.

  3. Sun Infusion:
    Seal the jar and place it in direct sunlight for 1–2 weeks. Shake it daily to mix. The sun helps release the amla’s nutrients into the oil naturally.

  4. Strain and Store:
    After infusion, strain the oil through cheesecloth to remove solids. Store in a dark glass bottle, away from heat and light.

🔥 Method 2: Quick Stove-Top Amla Oil

  1. Mix & Heat:
    Combine the oil and amla in a heavy-bottomed pan over low heat.

  2. Simmer Gently:
    Let it simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not overheat or burn.

  3. Cool & Strain:
    Once cooled, strain the oil and transfer it to a glass bottle.

✅ Tips:

  • Use once or twice weekly as a hot oil treatment or scalp massage.

  • Always do a patch test before full use.

  • Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Want more natural hair tips and recipes? Visit www.naturalhairtoolkit.com for free resources.

Sources:

Embrace the power of nature. Your hair deserves the best.

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