Mustard Oil for Hair: Benefits, Side Effects, and Alternatives

When you think of mustard, you probably also think of hot dogs, sandwiches, salad dressing, or maybe even that one bottle sitting in the back of your fridge. But mustard oil for hair? That’s where things get interesting.

Mustard oil is hailed as a natural remedy for issues like hair thinning to dandruff. But is mustard really a good oil for hair growth, or is it just another old-school home remedy that doesn’t hold up under science?

In short, while mustard oil does contain nutrients that support scalp health, there is no strong scientific evidence proving that it can stop or reverse hair loss.

Let’s dig into the benefits of mustard oil for hair, potential risks, and how to use it for healthier, shinier locks. 

First, let’s talk about what mustard oil is and isn’t.  

Mustard oil is extracted from mustard seeds. The mustard plant (Brassica nigra, Brassica juncea, and Brassica hirta) is widely cultivated in India, Pakistan, and Nepal. For centuries, mustard oil has been used in Ayurveda for skincare and hair care. 

Some of its key nutrients include:

• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids  

• Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant

• Selenium

• Magnesium 

Mustard oil is completely different to the yellow condiment that comes in a squeeze bottle. In fact, you shouldn’t eat mustard oil at all. 

In some countries, including the United States, mustard oil is banned for oral consumption due to its high erucic acid content. This may pose health risks when ingested in large quantities. However, it is still widely available for external use in massage and hair care. 

The internet is awash with claims about natural hair growth remedies, mustard oil among them.  We explored the alleged benefits of mustard oil to assess whether the science supports each one — read on for more.

1. Could Boost Scalp Circulation for Healthier Hair Growth

One of the most common claims about mustard oil is that it has the ability to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can create a better environment for hair growth. 

Mustard oil contains allyl isothiocyanate, a compound that gives it a warming sensation when applied to the scalp. This heat effect may help boost blood flow, ensuring that hair follicles receive more oxygen and nutrients.

While it’s true that improved scalp circulation can support hair follicle function, no studies show that mustard oil improves blood flow in the scalp — let alone that it can boost hair growth. 

2. May Keep Your Scalp Hydrated

A dry scalp is associated with weak, brittle hair and increased shedding. 

Mustard oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, linoleic acid, and oleic acid, all of which help nourish and strengthen hair. These essential fatty acids provide moisture and support the scalp’s natural barrier, helping to prevent dryness and flakiness.

Keeping your scalp hydrated can support strong, healthy hair.

3. Fights Scalp Infections

If you’re constantly brushing white flakes off your shoulders, you might be tempted to use home remedies like mustard oil. 

Thanks to the antibacterial and antifungal properties of mustard oil, it may help combat microbes that cause scalp infections. It might also help reduce dandruff, which is commonly caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia yeast. 

However, there’s little research on the use of mustard oil for dandruff. While a case study looked at a report of an individual using mustard oil to treat seborrheic dermatitis (severe dandruff), more research is necessary to prove whether mustard oil is a worthwhile dandruff remedy. It might be worth looking into other home remedies to combat dandruff if you’re hoping to shake the flake. 

4. Deeply Conditions and Strengthens Hair

Dry or damaged hair? Mustard oil might be worth a try. Because it’s packed with fatty acids, it works as a natural conditioner, which can help keep your hair healthy and manageable. 

With regular use, mustard oil could potentially:

• Prevent split ends and breakage

• Tame frizzy hair by sealing moisture into the hair shaft

• Improve hair elasticity, making strands less prone to snapping

Deep conditioning is particularly beneficial for people with curly, wavy, or coarse hair. These hair types tend to be drier and more fragile than straight hair.

5. May Reduce Scalp Inflammation

Mustard oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. In theory, these could help soothe inflammatory scalp conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or scalp irritation.

The key word here is could. Although alpha-linolenic acid has been shown to reduce inflammation, there aren’t any studies that definitively prove mustard oil could help with issues like eczema. 

Additionally, mustard oil might actually irritate skin conditions further, especially if it’s undiluted.

Long story short, there’s no clinical evidence proving that mustard oil directly stimulates hair growth.

That being said, by reducing scalp inflammation, preventing hair breakage, and improving scalp circulation, mustard oil might indirectly support stronger, healthier hair growth over time.

If you’re experiencing significant hair fall, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions like hormonal imbalances, stress-related shedding, or nutritional deficiencies. 

Not sure how to use mustard oil for your hair? A scalp massage can be a simple way to integrate mustard oil into your hair care routine.

Here’s how to give yourself a scalp massage with mustard oil:

• Dilute mustard oil with a carrier oil — for example, jojoba, coconut, or olive oil. A 1:1 ratio is a good place to start. 

• Warm the oil mix slightly.

• Massage it into your scalp using gentle, circular motions.

• Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour (or overnight for deeper conditioning).

• Rinse thoroughly with shampoo. 

If you want the benefits without the mess, try adding a few drops of mustard oil to your regular shampoo, conditioner, or hair mask for extra hydration and scalp care. As always, try to use products that suit your hair type.

Despite its potential benefits, mustard oil isn’t for everyone. 

The possible side effects of mustard oil include:  

• Scalp irritation. Compounds like allyl thiocyanate can cause redness, itching, or a burning sensation. To reduce your risk of irritation, dilute it with a carrier oil like almond oil or coconut oil. 

• Allergic reactions. It’s rare but possible to be allergic to mustard seeds. Always patch test a new product before applying it to your scalp.

• Greasy hair. Mustard oil is thicker than many other natural oils, which can leave a heavy, greasy feeling if not washed out properly.

• Strong smell. Mustard oil has an intense, slightly spicy scent. If that’s not your vibe, mix it with a fragrant essential oil.  

If you have highly sensitive skin, or if you have a hair condition (like an infection, hair loss, or dandruff), it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using a new treatment — even if it’s a natural remedy. 

We’re going to level with you: hair loss generally gets worse over time. This is why it’s important to use clinically-backed treatments as soon as you notice the signs of hair thinning.

Here are some science-backed hair loss treatment options:

• Minoxidil (Rogaine®). This FDA-approved topical treatment stimulates hair follicles and increases hair density. You can buy minoxidil foam and minoxidil solution over the counter. 

• Finasteride (Propecia®). Another FDA-approved treatment, finasteride is a prescription oral medication that blocks DHT, the hormone linked to male pattern baldness.  

• A combo treatment. If you like, you can use a two-in-one minoxidil and finasteride treatment — like our topical finasteride & minoxidil spray.

You could also try:

• DHT-blocking shampoos. Certain thickening shampoos contain ingredients like ketoconazole or saw palmetto to reduce hair-thinning effects of DHT.

• PRP therapy. This medical procedure uses platelet-rich plasma injections to rejuvenate hair follicles.

• Laser hair therapy. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) helps stimulate follicle activity and improve hair thickness.

• Hair supplements. If your hair loss is due to nutritional deficiencies, you might benefit from a supplement, like our biotin gummies.

If you’re experiencing persistent hair loss, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and explore effective treatment options.

Mustard oil won’t regrow lost hair or stop hair loss, but it can moisturize the scalp, improve hair texture, and reduce dandruff. If you want healthier-looking hair, it might be a useful addition to your routine.

Keep this in mind: 

• Mustard oil isn’t a proven hair loss treatment. Unfortunately, there’s no research to suggest mustard oil can stop hair loss or regrow hair.

• But it may have other benefits for hair health. For example, it can deeply condition and hydrate your hair and scalp. It might also help with scalp infections.

• Opt for science-backed treatments. If you’re experiencing thinning hair, consult a healthcare provider and consider FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil or finasteride.

If you're dealing with actual hair loss, don’t waste valuable time experimenting with home remedies. Hair loss gets worse over time, and your best bet is to start clinically proven treatments ASAP.

Ready to take the first step? We can help you book a consultation with a healthcare professional today.