An Ayurvedic Journey with Onion Oil: From Hairfall to Hope

Dec 30, 2025

Authored by: Adeeba

Reviewed by: Kapil Dhameja

Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

One day you wake up and begin to notice the amount of hair on your clothes increasing, and your parting shifts a little higher. You try not to worry about it, but you know that back in your mind, deep down, you’re growing increasingly anxious about this problem. You then begin to increase your use of hair oils and shampoos, and look for home remedies, however you receive no assurances.

Why am I able to relate? Because after experimenting for months with oils and shampoo combinations, I finally took a different approach. Instead of asking what's the best oil to use? I started asking, why is my hair falling?

Finding the answer to that question led me to an Ayurvedic Physician.

The Physician first talked about my digestive system, my sleep patterns, my state of mind, how hot or cold my body feels, and how many days each week I feel anxious, tired, bloated, or just plain “off”. I thought this was off-topic until I continued to listen.

Ayurveda says that hair loss is usually not a hair problem at all; it is generally an indication that there is an internal imbalance within the body, especially where excess heat (Pitta), weak digestion (poor nutrients) and depletion of nutrients are involved in hair growth. Treatment oils and herbs are therefore not necessarily the most popular treatment, but they are used to correct the same imbalances that are causing hair loss.

Table of Contents

Ayurvedic perspective of Hairfall
What Is Onion Oil in Ayurveda?
Onion Oil Promotes Hair Growth
Onion Oil and Science
How to Apply Onion Oil for Hair Growth (Step-by-Step)
Who should use Onion Oil
Onion Oil Use Myths Relating to Hair Growth
How to choose the right onion oil?
Onion Oil Recipes for Hair
Onion Oil for Hair: FAQs

Ayurvedic perspective of Hairfall

From an Ayurvedic physician’s point of view, hair fall is never seen as a surface-level problem. It is not treated as “weak hair” or “bad scalp” alone. Instead, it is understood as an internal imbalance that eventually shows itself through the hair.

According to Ayurveda, hair (Kesha) is a by-product of bone tissue (Asthi Dhatu). The deeper tissues, such as the bones and hair roots, are not nourished properly when digestion is poor. Hair becomes thin, dry, brittle, and starts to shed as a result. For this reason, poor digestion, problems absorbing nutrients, or long-term stress are frequently associated with hair loss.

Pitta is the dosha most frequently associated with hair loss. Stress, irregular eating patterns, spicy or fried foods, sleep deprivation, hormonal imbalances, and excessive use of heating products all contribute to the body's excess heat, which directly affects the scalp.This excess heat weakens hair roots, causes inflammation, premature greying, scalp sensitivity, and increased hair shedding. When Pitta rises beyond balance, hair fall accelerates.

Vata imbalance also plays a major role. When Vata is disturbed, circulation to the scalp reduces and dryness increases. Hair becomes rough, lifeless, frizzy, and prone to breakage. People with Vata imbalance often experience seasonal hair fall, thinning, or excessive shedding during stress or weather changes.

Kapha imbalance can also contribute to hair loss, although in a lesser amount of cases than other doshas. When there is an accumulation of excessive kapha in the body, it can cause a congested, oily scalp, clogged hair follicles, flaky dandruff, and a slow rate of hair growth. Kapha-induced hair loss is not as common as hair loss from one of the other doshas; however, if left unmanaged it can prevent healthy hair regrowth.

Ayurvedic Physicians have also identified Agni, or digestive health, as critical to the health of the hair. If Digestion is not functioning properly, and toxins (Ama) are building up in the body, any of the best-formulated oils and treatments will have no effect on improving hair health. Toxins in our bodies can block the flow of nutrients to the scalp; without sufficient nutrients, our hair becomes weak and can eventually fall off from the roots.

This is the reason why Ayurveda does not treat hair loss with a single product; treatment for hair loss is always comprehensive and involves attention to all aspects of a person’s body and health, including diet and lifestyle, as well as managing stress, maintaining a balanced system internally and externally with nutritional intake, and providing the hair with internal nourishment using oils formulated for an individual’s specific doshic makeup and the causes of hair loss.

What Is Onion Oil in Ayurveda?

When the Ayurvedic physician gently introduced onion oil as part of the treatment, it wasn’t presented as a “quick fix” or a trendy remedy. In Ayurveda, onion (Palandu) has been known and used for centuries, not just as a food ingredient, but as a deeply nourishing, warming, and circulation-enhancing herb.

Ayurveda says that onions are Ushna (warming), Snigdha (unctuous), and Brimhana (nourishing). These traits make it especially helpful when hair falls out because of poor circulation, weak roots, dryness, or depleted tissues. All of these are signs of Vata imbalance and weakened Asthi Dhatu. When you add onion to oil, it makes the oil even better for use on the skin. Onion oil works on the scalp, where it increases blood flow, wakes up hair follicles that are sleeping, and sends nutrients straight to the roots.

Ayurvedic doctors often recommend this when hair loss is linked to stress, tiredness, weakness after being sick, or not getting enough nutrients. Onion oil doesn't irritate the scalp as much as harsh stimulants do when it's made correctly and mixed with herbs that cool or ground it. Traditional recipes often use onion with herbs like Bhringraj, Amla, or sesame oil as a base. This makes sure that circulation is improved without making the heat worse.

Ayurvedic medicine says that onion oil can help keep hair healthy in a few different ways:

1) Strengthens Hair Follicles: Onion Oil helps blood flow to the scalp, which helps strengthen the hair follicle.

2) Helps Hair Grow by Giving It Nutrients: Onion Oil also helps Asthi Dhatu, which is the tissue that supports hair, grow.

3) Prevents Vata (Drying) Effects on Hair: Onion Oil helps reduce dryness and thinning of the hair caused by excessive Vata.

Also, the physician explained that onion oil should not create excessive heat on the scalp. When applied properly, Onion Oil improves the environment of the scalp so that it can effectively receive the nutrients required for healthy hair growth.

Lastly, onion oil is not considered a standalone treatment in Ayurvedic practice, it should be considered within a personalized context, taking into account individual digestive capacity; daily diet; thoughts; feelings and emotions, (stress); seasons of the year.

Onion Oil Promotes Hair Growth

During the ongoing conversation, the Ayurvedic practitioner made a comment that seems to have given everyone peace of mind when she stated, "You don't lose your hair because it fails you; you lose your hair because your hair wants nourishment." This is where onion oil works behind the scenes.

From an Ayurvedic standpoint, onion oil promotes the growth of hair by awakening the scalp. For many individuals suffering from hair loss, the scalp is dehydrated, overly tense, or malnourished, even if there are no visible signs of this condition. By applying onion oil to the scalp, the heat from the oil enhances circulation, which allows the nutrients to be delivered to the roots of the hair more efficiently. Therefore, one could liken the action of the onion oil to turning the switch to the hair follicles back on after being dormant for a period of time.

According to the Ayurvedic practitioner, onion oil has a unique benefit for individuals with weak roots. According to Ayurveda, the strength of the hair is linked to a tissue called Asthi Dhatu, which also serves as a supporting role for nails and bones. If an individual has weak Asthi Dhatu, their hair tends to become weak and brittle, leading to the development of conditions such as hair loss, hair thinning, and hair breakage. The combination of using onion oil and applying it with a base of a nourishing oil helps to nourish the scalp and to strengthen the roots of the hair, making it easier for the hair to grow normally.

The beneficial effects of onion oil on a person's hair are not limited to restoring lost moisture and returning softness to dry, damaged or lifeless locks. When there is an imbalance of the Vata dosha (according to Ayurveda), the hair tends to be dry, rough, damaged, and prone to falling out in greater amounts than normal. By reducing dryness, onion oil can aid in the reduction of hair's overall fragility.

Although many people choose to use onion oil to improve their hair's appearance, the health of the scalp is just as important. Onion oil aids in creating a more calming and balanced atmosphere for the scalp by reducing symptoms of dryness, irritation, and “tightness” following shampooing.

Many people have the expectation that they will see positive effects from onion oil immediately; however, it is best to think of it in terms of long-term improvement, which is how Ayurveda practices hair care. By using onion oil on a regular basis, individuals can:

- Reduce excessive hair shedding

- Increase root strength over time

- Support thicker, healthier regrowth

- Improve scalp health and vitality

Onion Oil and Science

When the Ayurvedic physician finished his explanation, the man suffering from hair fall finally spoke up and asked the question most of us think but not many of us will say aloud: “So, doctor, do you have any scientific studies showing that onion oil works?”

With a smile, the Ayurvedic practitioner nodded and replied, “There is no conflict between Ayurveda and science. The majority of what science knows about onions was discovered through observation of how they have been used for centuries.”

In modern science, we know that onions contain high levels of sulfur compounds. Sulfur, therefore, is one of the most important nutrients needed for the production of keratin, the protein that forms our hair. If there is not enough sulfur supply to the scalp, then hair becomes weak, brittle, and breaks easily. When used as a topical treatment, onion oil provides the body with sulphur directly at the root level, encouraging stronger hair growth.

According to current research, onion extracts are also rich in flavonoids and antioxidants. Flavonoids and antioxidants reduce oxidative stress on the scalp. Oxidative stress refers to the build-up of free radicals on our cells. For the scalp, an excess of free radicals lead to the slow destruction of our hair follicles. Onion oil's ability to help decrease oxidative stress allows hair to grow in optimal conditions.

One more important factor agreed upon by both scientists and ayurvedic physicians alike is that onions produce an increase in blood flow to the scalp through mild stimulation. Improved circulation increases the amount of oxygen and nutrients that are carried to the hair root area, which both ayurveda and modern trichology emphasize.

The physician reiterated what I had learned from my review with him: although onion oil has been supported scientifically, it also does not serve as a miraculous cure overnight. It does provide nourishment, but it takes time and consistency for any ingredient (natural or chemical) to have visible results on your hair. Therefore, you will get the most benefit from onion oil by using it consistently and in conjunction with good scalp care, eating a healthy diet, and coping with stress.

At the conclusion of our meeting, the physician wisely stated: "Science tells us how onions support our hair on a biological level. Ayurveda teaches us the best way to use it over time, and most gently.”

How to Apply Onion Oil for Hair Growth (Step-by-Step)

Now that you know how onion oil helps with hair loss, I asked the question that everyone wants to know: "So, doctor, how do I use it? I've tried using oil before and it didn't work." The Ayurveda doctor smiled, "This is where things get practical in the healing process."

Step 1. Apply Onion Oil on a Clean, Calm Scalp

The doctor said to apply the onion oil on a clean scalp or one that only has a little oil on it, rather than applying it to a scalp that has excess product or dirt from sweat or styling products. It would be best if you apply it then after you wash your hair to allow the oil to travel deeper into your scalp rather than just reside on the outside.

Step 2: Use the Correct Quantity of Onion Oil

I was surprised to learn from him that, while onion oil has a strong aroma (which makes sense), the idea is not to use it in large quantities.

"Yes, a teaspoon or two, depending on the length of your hair, is sufficient; More will probably cause pore blockage and a heavy scalp, especially for Kapha-dominant/oily scalps."

Step 3: Warm the Onion Oil Slightly

According to Ayurvedic beliefs, warm oil has a greater ability to penetrate and nourish.

The physician recommended warming the onion oil by putting the bottle in lukewarm water for one minute, and that it should feel comfortably warm, not hot.

Warming the oil can:

Increase circulation to the scalp
Pore Opening
Calming Vata (which is commonly identified as a contributing factor to hair loss).

Step 4: Take Your Time When Massaging the Onion oil

"Don't hurry through this," the physician advised. When massaging the onion oil, use your fingertips (not your nails) to gently massage the oil into your scalp using a circular motion. Start at the temples and work toward the centre and back of your head. The massage:

Increases blood circulation to your scalp
Stimulates Follicles that are Dormant
Calms Your Nervous System

Spending five to ten minutes on a slow-dedicated massage to your scalp has a calming effect, and this calming effect can support healthy hair development.

Step 5: Don’t leave it on for too long.

Your doctor will advise you to leave your onion oil on the scalp for 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you have a sensitive scalp, 30-45 minutes is all that’s needed. Leaving it on overnight is not required, and in some cases may irritate patients.

"This oil is potent," he kindly reminded me. "The amount of time you leave it on doesn't always give you more benefits."

Step 6: Cleanse with a mild cleanser.

Cleanse the onion oil from the scalp with either a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo or an Ayurvedic. Please avoid washing the oil off with very hot water, as hot water can strip the moisture from the scalp and make hair fall out.

The doctor implied that harsh shampoo will negate the effects of oiling, so you must cleanse with a mild cleanser.

Step 7: Consistency is more important

For best results, use this oil two to three times per week (this is how often most people should use this oil).

You will have better results from using the oil regularly over the course of several weeks than from using the oil aggressively every day.

The process of growing hair out is slow, and the onion oil will help you to grow your hair out but it won't force it to happen.

Who should use Onion Oil

Now after such an informative discussion, I ask a question everyone with hair loss has: "Doctor is Onion oil supposed to be for everyone? What about people who experience significant hair loss?"

He smiled and stated: "Onion oil is powerful," but "Ayurveda has never adhered to a one remedy that fits all".

People with active Hairfall

Onion oil is particularly valuable to anyone who is noticing increased hair fall, thinning of the hair at the crown of the head, widening parting or weaker hair roots. This indicates a Vata imbalance or lack of nourishment reaching the hair follicles in Ayurvedic terms. Onion oil increases circulation and its warming properties contribute to its helpfulness here.

People experiencing hair loss due to stress and hormones

Modern day stress, irregular sleep, and the changes brought on by hormones disrupt the flow of nourishment to the scalp. Onion oil supports the scalp through increased blood flow, the addition of sulfur-rich compounds, and the strengthening of the hair roots, making it even more valuable for those who are losing their hair due to stress or postpartum loss/changes caused by hormones.

People with dry or dull hair

Those with dry, dull, lifeless or easily broken hair commonly have excess Vata. Onion oil combined with nourishing carrier oils help restore moisture, strength, and elasticity to the hair strands while also soothing the scalp's dryness.

Early Stage Hair thinning

Hair thinning in the early stages has a better response to onion oil. The physician gently advised that “onion oil nourishes weakened hair follicles, and does not nourish completely dormant ones.” Those who see thinning hair or a decrease in density often show better improvement than someone with long-term bald patches.

Onion Oil Use Myths Relating to Hair Growth

So as we were heading towards our end of the discussion, I asked the physician, “Doctor, I’ve seen so many different opinions about onion oil on social media, some say it is some type of miraculous product, others say that it does absolutely nothing and yet some have said that it could actually harm your hair.”

The physician could only smile at me and said, “Let’s cut through all the noise,” the doctor said. “Onion oil is valuable; however, there are a lot of myths associated with it.”

1.Myth: Onion oil can grow hair back in bald areas

The first point that the doctor made was this; onion oil will not re-grow hair in a bald area. In Ayurveda medicine, it is taught that an inactive hair follicle cannot be made active again simply by applying onion oil, so onion oil can only benefit weak or damaged hair follicles and not hair-free areas.

2. Myth: The stronger the scent of the onion oil, the better it is.

Many people believe that if an oil smells stronger, it will have a higher concentration of nutrients; however, the doctor stated that quality was more important than smell when evaluating an onion oil. There are properly processed onion oils that do not smell strong, however, they are still effective.

3. Myth: Using Onion oil more than once a day will give fast results

“Too much” can be bad for your hair, according to the Doctor. Using too much oil on the scalp can block pores and create heat which is not helpful for your hair and ultimately leads to weak roots. According to Ayurveda, the best way to use oils is in moderation about 2 to 3 times per week; not daily.

4. Myth: Onion Oil is an Instant Cure for Hair Growth

Hair does not grow overnight; it is a time-consuming process. While onion oil can create an environment conducive to healthy hair and strengthen the hair follicle, changes may take several weeks to months before becoming apparent depending on factors such as nutrition, stress, hormones and consistency of use.

5. Myth: Onion Oil Works For Everyone

The Doctor explained: Onion oil is warm. Although great for people with heavy hair loss due to Vata imbalance, onion oil may not be appropriate for sensitive or impaired scalps unless it is diluted with cooling oils, such as coconut or aloe.

6. Myth: Raw Onion Juice Is The Same As Onion Oil

Applying raw onion juice directly onto your scalp may be irritating and/or dry out your hair and scalp. Onion oil that is mixed with carrier oils creates a gentler option that is better suited to daily use than raw onion juice is. Ayurveda has traditionally emphasised this point.

How to choose the right onion oil?

The doctor smiled as he explained that most people do not know how to prepare and select their onion oils properly.

The process of Onion oil

Traditionally, onion oil is created using a combination of slow infusion or cold-processing techniques that allow the preservation of sulfur compounds that otherwise are released through the excessive heating of the oil, along with being gentle enough not to irritate the scalp.

Ingredient list is very important

You should read the label of a quality regarding onion oil, closely! A quality onion oil product should have:

1. Onion or onion extract as the main ingredient.

2. Natural base oils.

3. The least amount of additives.

4. No mineral oil, artificial colors, or heavy silicone.

As the physician stated, "The oil that nourishes your scalp must be as pure as the food you eat."

Know Your Scalp Type

You should know your scalp type when you choose onion oil according to the physician:

Dry, flaking scalps are better suited to using onion oil mixed with coconut or almond oils.
Oily scalps and scalps with dandruff need to use lighter oils in their formula.
If your scalp is sensitive, consider diluting onion oil with other soothing ingredients, such as Bhringraj or Aloe Vera.

Choosing an onion oil without knowing your scalp is like taking medication without getting a diagnosis.

Aroma and texture of onion oil

A good quality onion oil will provide a light, easily absorbed, and soothing sensation; it should not feel sticky or overwhelming. If the scent seems strong and causes you to feel tingly or burning, that indicates an over-concentrated or poorly made product.

Onion Oil Recipes for Hair

After a long deep discussion about onion oil, I finally decided to ask him, "Doctor. Is it ok to make onion oil at home? Or do I have to purchase it?" So the doctor responded that the home made onion oil is the best type of oil because it will contain the right amount of essential nutrients and be balanced so that the intended result is obtained.

He said that when you prepare the oil at home in a calm environment and store it properly, you will get better results than if you prepare the oil in a hurried manner or put on a lot of pressure.

Onion Infused Oil Recipe (For Beginners)

This is the most simple version of the onion oil recipe that is best for people who have never used onion oil before. You should chop your onions as small as possible and allow them to dry out for a while in order to remove the water content.

Heat your coconut or sesame oil in a saucepan over low heat and then put in the chopped onions into the hot oil and let it heat until the onions become a dark golden color and then turn the heat off and allow the oil cool completely and then strain it out and put the strained oil into a clear glass container.

The doctor mentioned that this oil is an effective way to prevent hair loss and help you grow strong healthy hair without any irritation or discomfort.

Onion + Fenugreek Oil

If you're trying to prevent hair loss and you also have dandruff or dry scalp, the onion and fenugreek oil may be the solution.

To make the onion and fenugreek oil, you'll need to soak two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight.

The next morning, lightly grind the seeds. In a pan over low heat, add chopped onion and fenugreek paste to warm coconut oil. Simmer gently until you have an oil that is well combined.

Strain out any pieces from the oil, and you may use it.

Fenugreek adds iron, strength and comfort to your scalp. It reduces breakage and itching of the scalp.

Onion + Bhringraj Oil

This recipe is more in line with a traditional Ayurvedic approach.

To make the onion and bhringraj oil, infuse chopped onions into coconut or sesame oil with either dried bhringraj or bhringraj powder.

Again, slowly heat and combine ingredients until well mixed and then strain before storing.

“Not only does this oil help hair grow, it also helps it stay.”,as said by the physician.

How to apply onion oil on hair?

The physician recommended that the person should use onion oil 2-3 times per week, gently massage it into the scalp, and leave the oil for 30-45 minutes before washing it out of hair, and if the patient tolerates well, the oil can be left in overnight.

The doctor also added that when preparing homemade oils, "Patience is key! If you rush making the oil, it will not contain all of the healing properties.”

Onion Oil for Hair: FAQs

While preparing to leave, I paused and asked him one last question, "Doctor, a quick question, everyone has something different to say about onion oil and usually people have many queries that remain unanswered!!"

With a chuckle, the physician replied, "I think this is normal. Let's calmly clarify your confusion with complete honesty".

Does onion oil really help with the growth of hair?

The Physician replied, "Yes, but it isn't an overnight miracle".

Onion oil has been found to assist in the stimulation of blood flow in the scalp, provide nutritional support for attenuate roots, and create a more optimal hair cycle. As a result, onion oil may be particularly helpful when hair loss results from stress, poor blood flow or a mild hormonal imbalance, or weak scalp; Additionally, onion oil will produce consistent visible improvements when utilized regularly over a number of weeks.

How long does it take before you can notice hair growth from onion oil?

"Make sure to be patient," said the Physician.

Most people will notice a decrease in overall hair loss within three to four weeks and may begin seeing the emergence of new baby hair by week six or eight, given they use the oil correctly and consistently.

Onion oil can cause temporary hair loss at first in some instances?

The physician explained that if your scalp has a build-up of oils, the first time you use some onion oil, you may lose weak hairs that are already in the shedding phase and then the shedding will resolve once your scalp has adjusted to the use of onion oil. If you have continuous hair loss, you should consider that onion oil may be too strong or not suitable for your hair.

Will onion oil be suitable for my sensitive scalp?

"It can be, provided you have used it properly," said the physician. To remedy a sensitive scalp, it would be appropriate to dilute the onion oil with coconut, almond, or sesame oil and apply it only once per week at the beginning. Patch testing is an important part of this process.

Can onion oil be used daily?

"No," said the physician, answering both clearly and gently.

If you apply oils to your scalp every day, they may clog your pores and cause an interruption of your scalp balance. The best practice is to use onion oil two or three times per week as opposed to daily.

If I use onion oil overnight, will that be all right?

Only if your scalp can tolerate overnight application of onion oil. Most likely, 30-60 minutes post-application would be sufficient. However, if someone has a dry scalp, the person should feel free to apply onion oil overnight. If the person is applying onion oil to an oily or dandruff-prone scalp, the person would be better off if they avoid applying onion oil overnight.

Can onion oil assist with alleviating dandruff?

Yes, if the cause of your dandruff is from dry skin or a mild case of fungus. Onion's anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties are advantageous, especially when combined with neem or fenugreek. In cases of severe dandruff, you may need to treat the problem with additional products.

If you wash your hair all the way, the onion oil smell will go away?

Using a little essential oil (like rosemary or lavender) will help get rid of any smells left behind when you wash your hair with an herbal shampoo.

Is store-bought onion oil as good as making your own?

"It depends on how well the product was made," says our expert.

Ayurvedic oils that have been produced correctly can work just as well as homemade onion oil and are easier to use because they contain balancing herbs that help relieve irritation.

Final takeaway

After talking with the Ayurvedic physician, I learnt that onion oil is not a miracle treatment, rather it is a supportive aid to our body. Onion Oil nourishes the scalp, stimulates circulation, decreases hair loss and provides support for healthy hair growth when used regularly. While applying Onion Oil, I have learnt much more from using the Oil, its benefits; through applying the Oil, I was taught that it takes time, and that the best way to achieve strong hair is through balance, not through hastiness.

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