Hair's the truth behind the viral Adivasi Oil promoted by influencers like Elvish Yadav (2024)

Today, Adivasi Hair Oil has reached influencers like Elvish Yadav, as well as household names like comic Bharti Singh, choreographer Farah Khan, and many others.

Hair's the truth behind the viral Adivasi Oil promoted by influencers like Elvish Yadav (1)

Adivasi Hair Oil calims to control dandruff, give you healthy and long hairand regenerate hair (even for bald people). Photo: Youtube/India Today

What makes a product viral? If you think we'll say the quality of the product, well, you're highly mistaken. The product, just like your reality star (read: Indian Idol), needs to have a background story that appeals to the consumers, which creates the recipe for a perfect viral product - one that everyone wants to get their hands on.

Brownie points if celebs and influencers are talking about the product.

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One such product that has managed to create quite a buzz is Adivasi Hair Oil. The reasons behind this product being the talk of the town for almost a year are pretty clear.

The product comes packaged with the story of a hair oil that came out of the tribal areas of Karnataka.

Not only this, but today, Adivasi Hair Oil has reached influencers like Elvish Yadav, as well as household names like comedienne Bharti Singh, choreographer Farah Khan, and many others. No doubt, it has generated a significant buzz among almost all demographics of Indians, from younger to older generations.

But just how effective is it? We try finding out.

'Original Adivasi hair oil'

If you’ve ever taken a road trip from Bengaluru to Mangalore, you might have noticed a long stretch of over 50 stalls along the highway, near the city of Hassan, all selling hair oils that promise to solve all your hair problems.

These hair oils are marketed by models, both male and female, boasting long, lustrous hair. They claim that the oils are responsible for their hair growth and even assert that those who are bald can reverse their baldness with these products.

The people selling these Adivasi hair oils are members of the Hakki Pikki community, a Scheduled Tribe in Karnataka. The tribe is a semi-nomadic tribe traditionally engaged in bird catching and hunting, living in forest areas in the west and south of India.

But here’s the thing, various people from the same community sell their hair oil, and all of them claim that their hair oil is ‘original’.

Everyone has a similar story to sell, apologies, tell, a hair oil from the tribal areas of Karnataka, and every hair oil has a few potential benefits.

Potential benefits of Adivasi hair oil

India Today searched through various ‘original’ websites and found that these hair oils can supposedly:

  • Control dandruff
  • Give you healthy and long hair
  • Regenerate hair (even for bald people)
  • Deal with hair loss

Sounds like a dream come true, packed in a bottle that can cost you something between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,000?

How did it become so famous?

Today, Adivasi hair oil is everywhere. From celebs to influencers to vloggers, everyone is promoting this hair oil, but none of them have actually used it nor done a review.

If we go online and find reviews from people who have actually used the product, the feedback is, well, not very good, with some even calling it a “scam.”

Hair's the truth behind the viral Adivasi Oil promoted by influencers like Elvish Yadav (2)

Now, back to these videos promoted by influencers and vloggers - they all have a similar theme: they arrive in Bengaluru, visit the area where this oil is supposedly made, and immerse themselves in the Adivasi culture.

Content and themes like these have made the oils quite viral.

The storyline of the hair oil, especially the claim that it 'comes from tribal areas' and is all-natural, also helps increase its popularity.

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Finally, the long hair of the models, especially the male ones, helps build trust amongst people, making them think that it might somehow aid in hair growth.

What do experts have to say?

First things first. If you're also wondering why the people selling the hair oil have long, lustrous hair, some experts speculate that it may be due to their genetics and living conditions. The Hakki Pikki community is still dependent on many natural ingredients, with the forest as their main natural resource.

Living so close to nature and continuing to use natural products can have a positive impact on their hair, so it might not be just the hair oil that has been a miracle to their hair as they claim.

Now, let us try and look at each one of the claims of the Adivasi hair oil, and what experts have to say about each one of them.

1. Reverse baldness?

Dr Sayyad Ajara T Hamid, a consultant dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, at The Eterne Clinic, Powai, Mumbai, tells India Today that baldness or especially male pattern baldness, is the most common type of hair loss and is influenced by various factors.

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  • Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): The primary cause of male pattern baldness is the sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. DHT can be formed in the body genetically due to higher levels of testosterone or is also increased through a diet rich in red meat or excess dairy.

Hair's the truth behind the viral Adivasi Oil promoted by influencers like Elvish Yadav (3)

  • Prostaglandin imbalance: Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that have hormone-like effects and play a role in hair growth regulation. An imbalance between certain prostaglandins can inhibit hair growth.
  • Micro-inflammation at hair roots: Chronic, low-grade inflammation around the hair follicles can contribute to hair loss by disrupting the normal hair growth cycle and causing damage to the hair follicles.
  • Genetics: A strong genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in male pattern baldness, says Dr Ajara.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and Vitamin D, can impair hair follicle function and contribute to hair thinning and loss.

According to Dr Ajara, one needs to identify the cause of baldness and then fix it for treating it. Hair oil alone can never reverse baldness, according to her.

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"Topical treatments alone may not be sufficient to address the multifactorial nature of male pattern baldness. Oral medications are often necessary to achieve more significant results in hair restoration," says Dr Ajara.

2. Help with hair loss?

Just like baldness, your hair loss is also not associated with one reason. The American Academy of Dermatology Association states that hair fall can be because of various reasons, from hormonal changes to stress to just pure genetics.

Dr Ruben Bhasin Passi, a consultant of Dermatology and hair care expert at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains, "If your cause of hair fall is dandruff, you'll fix dandruff. A hair oil won't help with this."

Hair's the truth behind the viral Adivasi Oil promoted by influencers like Elvish Yadav (4)

"Hair oils and treatments work better at preserving and enhancing the health of existing hair than they do at encouraging the growth of new hair in regions where follicles have stopped functioning," Dr Passi adds.

3. Removes dandruff?

Dr Passi says the main purpose of hair oil is to 'lubricate your hair', and it has no connection with dandruff; rather, excess oil in your hair can cause dandruff.

"These companies say that to see results, one needs to use this oil daily, which can actually increase your dandruff, as fungi and other bacteria grow in moist environments," she adds.

'Too many ingredients'

The various makers of Adivasi hair oil claim that it is made from 108 or 180 ingredients - all natural, although not listed on the bottle. However, according to experts, a high number of ingredients does not guarantee that it can solve all hair problems.

Dr Ajara explains, for instance, that minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to hair follicles, thereby stimulating hair growth and slowing hair loss. However, she says that the ingredients apparently used in Adivasi hair oil have no scientific backing, although some have allopathic properties.

For example, amla (Indian gooseberry), an ingredient in this oil, is known for its antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and protect hair follicle cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Similarly, neem leaves (Azadirachta indica) contain azadirachtin and nimbidin alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, potentially helping reduce scalp inflammation and prevent infections that may worsen hair loss.

However, Dr Ajara also warns that these benefits are anecdotal and lack scientific proof.

"People see 'herbal' and 'botanical' and are drawn to the product without even checking the ingredients. If someone launched something called 'herbal minoxidil' tomorrow, people would buy it," she adds.

Final strand

Like all tall claims, deal with this too with a generous pinch of salt. It is always better to consult an actual expert - a doctor, we mean, not an influencer - before believing in 'miracle cures' like the Adivasi hair oil.

Published By:

Dristi Sharma

Published On:

Aug 14, 2024

Trending Reel

Hair's the truth behind the viral Adivasi Oil promoted by influencers like Elvish Yadav (2024)

FAQs

Why are celebrities promoting Adivasi hair oil? ›

They're just capitalizing on people's insecurity about hair loss. Is Adivasi hair oil effective for curing hair loss and getting new roots? Adivasi hair oil, like many herbal oils, may have properties that promote hair health and growth. However, its effectiveness may vary from person to person.

Does Adivasi hair oil work for hair growth? ›

Adivasi Hair Oil, a blend of natural ingredients carefully selected to promote hair health and vitality. It is renowned for promoting hair growth and reducing hair fall. It nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair follicles, preventing premature greying.

What are the side effects of Adivasi hair oil? ›

Product Details. Adivasi herbal hair oil is purely made from natural herbs available in our forest using ancient methods. It gives results and doesn't contain any type of side effects.

Which Adivasi hair oil is original? ›

Our Sri Neelambari Adivasi Hair Oil is pure and potent. It originates from natural herbs harnessed from the depths of the Adivasi tradition. This oil represents the epitome of purity. It is a tribute to the rich heritage of the Adivasi communities.

How often should Indians oil their hair? ›

Hair oiling involves combing the hair, which is followed by oiling from the roots to the tips of the hair often with a hair braid once a week before shampooing.

Is phillauri Adivasi hair oil good for hair? ›

This Hair Oil is used for Hair Problems like Hair Loss, Dandruff, Hair Growth, Grey Hair, New Hair Alopecia Dry Hair Spit Ends Dull Hair Frizzy Hair Use this Oil 2 to 3 times a week. Used to make your Hair and to control Dandruff Apply the oil 2 to 3 times a week Before Bath to stop the Dandruff And Healthy long Hair.

Which oil is number one for hair growth? ›

Rosemary essential oil always tops the list of products that can help with hair growth. Research suggests that rosemary oil can be just as effective as Minoxidil, which makes it an excellent choice for helping to thicken hair and prevent hair loss.

Who is the owner of Adivasi hair oil? ›

Sandeep Raj is the owner & founder of Adivasi Neelamabri Herbal Hair Oil.

What oil do Indians use for hair growth? ›

Most women in India like to mix and match the oils they use for hair oiling depending on their needs, but there's after speaking with both Rai and Shah, I noticed one common denominator: castor oil. “Castor oil is known as the king of oils in India,” Shah informs me.

How long does it take to get the result of Adivasi hair oil? ›

Adivasi neelambari herbal hair oil is presented by adishakthi herbal products. It contains 101 types of pure herbs and roots, for example, bhringaraj, brahmi, amla, aloe vera, hibiscus flower, etc. If we talk about the result, we can see the result just in 4 weeks.

What are the disadvantages of hair oil? ›

Slathering your scalp and hair with oil isn't doing anything for its health—on the contrary, it's counter-productive. “Applying excess oil can clog hair follicles, leading to hair fall and dandruff. Similarly, applying it to dirty hair can cause scalp infections,” shares Dr Smita Naram, co-founder Ayushakti.

Is it safe to use hair oil everyday? ›

Once or twice a week is a good rule of thumb for most people. This gives your hair a good dose of nourishment without going overboard. If your hair is dry and craves moisture, you can oil it more often. Maybe try every other day or see how your hair responds.

Does Adivasi oil really work? ›

Adivasi hair oil, like many herbal oils, may have properties that promote hair health and growth. However, its effectiveness may vary from person to person. Consider trying it as part of a holistic hair care routine that includes scalp massages, proper nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments.

Why is everybody promoting Adivasi hair oil? ›

Formulated with herbs harvested from the Adivasi traditions, this oil is renowned for its ability to control hair fall and promote hair growth. Its unique composition includes a blend of 108 herbs, each selected for its specific benefits to hair health.

Which hair oil is most used in India? ›

Coconut Oil. Coconut oil has been revered for ages for its excellent hair-nourishing properties. It is known to penetrate the hair shaft and add moisture to the hair. This natural oil is also rich in lauric acid, which has antifungal properties, helping fight scalp issues like dandruff.

Why do Indians put oil in hair? ›

“The head is home to our nervous system,” says Mehta. “So scalp massage, using oils that contain adaptogens, is part of a daily routine to calm the nervous system and balance energy.

Is Vedacharya Adivasi hair oil good or bad? ›

Vedacharya Adivasi hair oil gives excellent nourishment to the hair roots. It is highly responsive to keep away many problems of hair like dandruff, flakes, hair fall, hair thinning, hair dullness and infections caused by lack of nutrients and you are benefitted without any adverse effect.

What hair oil do Indian girls use? ›

Indian women use all kinds of oils, including coconut and sesame. But castor oil is the ultimate powerhouse. "It's rich in omega-6 fatty acids that are so nourishing for the hair," says Shah, who also runs castor oil over her lashes every day.

What are the benefits of Adivasi Bhringraj hair oil? ›

Strengthens Hair: These herbs, along with Amla, help strengthen the hair strands from root to tip. This can reduce breakage and make your hair more resilient. Prevents Premature Graying: Bhringraj, in particular, is known to help maintain the natural color of your hair and delay the onset of premature graying.

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