Turmeric (Curcumin) Hair Loss: What Science Says?

Medically reviewedby Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry M.B.B.S.
WrittenbyLuat Duong
Last updated

Turmeric, also known as curcumin, has been used in Ayurveda for its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

But does it help with hair loss?

Clinically proven for its benefits, curcumin aids in treating indigestion, inflammation, liver and respiratory issues, and even heals wounds.

What is turmeric?

Curcumin Longa or popularly known as turmeric is a native herb used for culinary and medicinal purposes. It comes from the family of ginger and is popular in Asia i.e. China, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

The major dietary source of curcumin is in the form of around 4% Curcumin extract creates is a vital ingredient in Indian or Pakistani cooking to enhance the taste of any vegetable and meat dish.

Another root called zedoary root, also known as shoti, has Curcumin properties and is majorly used in the making of Indian pickles.

Curcumin is mostly found in Malaysia and Thailand, where it is used in curry pastes and other meat dishes.

The Western side of the world is vastly used in the making of mustard sauce and other sauces due to its strong yellow-orange colors. Its sauces are used in many restaurants in their burgers, sandwiches, and other foods.

A popular drink in Japan called Ukon has as its main ingredient. That tonic is famous for its healing properties and is drunk by both men and women. It is also used in hangover drinks and other beverages.

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Does turmeric help fight hair loss?

curcumin turmeric hair loss

Many of you are facing hair loss which could be for many different reasons, such as inflammatory issues, stress and anxiety, thyroid, hormonal dysfunction, and even toxicities. Turmeric's anti-bacterial and anti-inflammation properties help fight bacteria, fungus, viruses, high sugar, and stress.

As many of these components are being addressed, they will eventually support the ideal hair health. Today, anti-oxidant properties are used to remove dandruff from the scalp.

Lately, Curcumin Longa has become a leading ingredient in skin health. It can help reduce dark spots, acne, and dark circles. Recent evidence showed that has properties that help restore hair loss, and balding.

It's been claimed that having in your food will automatically lead to a healthy body and a better immune system. This is one reason we believe that can help with the hair loss issues such as Male Pattern Baldness or Androgenic Alopecia.

It has been stated that consuming turmeric alone will not activate its antimicrobial properties because the body does not absorb it properly. For it to work better, turmeric is often taken with a complimentary supplement. One of the most used supplements is piperine, found in the black pepper. It helps the body to absorb Curcumin better and helps activate its bioactivity.

How does turmeric work against hair loss?

curcumin turmeric hair loss

Adding turmeric to your diet is going to give you healthy hair, and also prevent hair loss indirectly.

Turmeric has also shown properties of inhibiting the 5-AR enzyme. It means that turmeric can potentially be used as a treatment for hair loss.

In this study, treatments with curcumin significantly elevated the levels of AKR1C2 in prostate cancer cell lines, which aided in reducing the presence of dihydrotestosterone.

Growth inhibition in prostate cancer cell lines by curcumin

Unlike other drugs, it does not contain any toxicity in its compound; hence it does not lead to any adverse side effects such as sexual dysfunction and infertility.

Curcumin can be combined with Minoxidil (Rogaine) medication which helps treat hair loss. has shown positive results in restoring hair loss, which men suffer from androgenic alopecia.

Another factor for turmeric having a significant effect on the reduction of hair loss and enhancement of hair growth is its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help the body rebuild and heal quickly, which has affected the hair follicles on the scalp. 

Seborrheic dermatitis can be one of the causes of hair loss that many men are facing. Studies have found that Curcumin can help resolve the effects of seborrheic dermatitis that causes hair loss.

Another way turmeric can enhance hair growth is through activating the Vitamin D receptors genes in hair follicles. Recent research discovered that mice and humans, who are lacking in Vitamin D receptor genes, are most likely to experience hair loss and may activate alopecia as well.

What are the benefits of turmeric?

curcumin turmeric hair loss

Due to turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties, it has proven to be beneficial for the hair. can even be found in creams, shampoos, conditioners that give your hair a few of the benefits to keep it healthy and sleek.

Hair loss restoration

It is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which help in restoring hair loss. Inflammation can cause hair fall as it affects the scalp and hair follicles. can help reduce the effects of inflammation through which it can stimulate hair growth. This means Curcumin has an impact on male pattern hair loss or androgenic alopecia.

Anti-dandruff

Dandruff is a fungus that grows on our scalp. If left untreated, it can cause problems leading to hair loss. As has antibacterial properties to fight off bacteria and fungus, it can help fight off dandruff on your scalp. If the scalp situation gets better, new and healthy hair can be produced.

Oil control

If you have greasy or oily hair, the anti-microbial properties will help in treating that issue. will prevent microorganisms to grow on your scalp, keeping your head clean and clear.

Healthier scalp

Overall effect of turmeric is significant for the body and your scalp. It helps with the irritation of your scalp through its natural anti-inflammatory properties. As turmeric is an unadulterated product, without any added substances, it can help reduce rashes or inflammation on the scalp. Keeping the scalp in good condition to prevent hair loss.

Eczema solution

If you have tiny bumps on your head and it makes you itch, then those are eczema. Eczema can cause redness, rashes, and itchiness and are bumpy. If your scalp has eczema, it will make it prone to bacteria and other microorganisms that can damage your scalp and follicle.
Using turmeric due to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help cater to the issue of eczema. can also be used in reducing the effects of atopic dermatitis.

Antioxidant benefits

Antioxidants are widely known to fight off free radicals, which are not only known for damaging your complexion and skin but also your hair and scalp. Antioxidants protect your hair follicles from any damaging molecules, which in return will keep your hair healthy and thick.

How to use turmeric for hair?

There are many ways through which turmeric can be taken for the hair. Below are two options:

Hair mask

Curcumin can be applied directly to the hair as a mask. You should combine olive oil and turmeric in equal parts. You can also add a little bit of honey to this mixture that will enable moisturizing properties.

Recipe for DIY turmeric hair mask:

Ingredients
Instructions:
  • Mix it evenly
  • Apply throughout the hair.
  • Keep it on for 15 to 20 minutes
  • Take the mask off and wash your hair with a good shampoo and conditioner.

The mask can also help you remove the dead skin from the scalp. It can also brighten your fading spots and reduce pigmentation cells.

Turmeric supplements

There are turmeric supplements that can be taken orally. You can take this supplement every day or according to the dosage on the instruction.

Around 500 to 2000 mg per day is recommended for an average person. 

Taking turmeric orally will deliver all the benefits to your hair and skin. Having it digested inside will help reduce inflammation in the body and near the scalp too.

It is also NOT recommended to take this supplement along with any blood thinners like aspirin or ibuprofen.

Turmeric-infused products

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Does turmeric cause hair loss?

Turmeric does not cause hair loss. There is not enough evidence to support this. The most common causes of hair loss are male and female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia. Other factors that can contribute to hair loss include stress, certain medications, and medical conditions

When not to use turmeric?

You should not use turmeric if you're:

  • Pregnant
  • On blood thinner
  • Having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Having gallbladder issues
  • Having bleeding disorders
  • Having diabetes

The supplement should only be taken on the recommendation of a doctor if you are having those conditions.

If someone is taking aspirin or ibuprofen, the blood thinners, they should not take turmeric with it.

Turmeric itself is a blood thinner, taking it would increase the risk of internal bleeding and bruising. It can also make the other medicines less effective.

People who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or those with gallbladder issues, bleeding disorders, and diabetes should not take turmeric.

Downsides of turmeric

Turmeric still has few downsides that make people have second thoughts about buying it.

Strong smell

The reviews on turmeric smell are mixed. Some people like its aroma while others can't stand it. Either way, turmeric has a strong smell that will be prominent while cooking or while adding it to the hair mask.

The odor is so strong that it is recommended to apply the turmeric paste a few hours before taking a shower. If not, it will result in a strong smell coming off your hair the whole day. This can be off-putting for some people out there.

Staining

With a strong odor, it also has a strong color. One of the characteristics of turmeric is that it is yellow-orange. The stain can stay on your skin for weeks and gradually goes out with every wash. It can be problematic if the stain is on the porous surfaces or the clothes. In some cases, it might not completely vanish.

Other than staining your house, clothes, or hair, turmeric has no side effects. It is completely natural and beneficial for the human body. Due to its healing and anti-inflammation properties, turmeric is safe to use.

Conclusion

 

Taking turmeric in an everyday diet can enhance your body immunity, which can result in better living conditions. A healthy body will produce healthy results for your emotions, hair, or skin. Since its properties are rich in antimicrobials and antioxidants, it can remove toxicity from the body and the scalp.

Along with fighting acne, it can fight dandruff and oil off your scalp. This gives your hair follicle room to breathe and produce healthier hair.

If you wish to make the turmeric mask at home, all you need is to buy a turmeric powder from your nearest store. The best thing about turmeric is that it is very cost-effective and would not cost as much as other conventional procedures or surgeries.

Although there are numerous benefits of Curcumin that one can take advantage of but there are still studies going underway on its uses and effectiveness.

References:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10334826/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21756154/
    Luat Duong

    Luat Duong is a Copenhagen-based writer and content strategist specializing in hair loss and health. His work has been featured in MyHealthGuide, The Right Hairstyles, and Woman's Era. He is a graduate of Vaasa University. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.