The Timeless Tradition of Hair Oiling: A Middle Eastern Beauty Secret

In the pursuit of healthy, luscious locks, many have turned to the ancient practice of hair oiling. There is much to learn from cultural traditions. It is not just about food, or music but even beauty traditions need to be embraced. There is a reason many are still around till today. They really work! Even in these modern times where there is a quick-fix for everything, slowly, we are going back to our roots and getting closer to nature and mother earth.

A tradition rooted in Middle Eastern culture. Passed down through generations, the ritual of hair oiling has stood the test of time, offering so many benefits for both hair and scalp. Let's delve into the rich history, cultural significance, and benefits of hair oiling.

Origins and Cultural Significance

Hair oiling traces its origins back to ancient civilizations in the Middle East, South Asia, and the Mediterranean region. Luxurious oils were treasured for their nourishing properties. From the Mediterranean to medieval Arabia, oils derived from plants like olive, argan, and jojoba have long been cherished for their ability to promote hair health and beauty.

In Middle Eastern culture, hair is regarded as a symbol of beauty, vitality, and femininity. As such, the practice of oiling one's hair is deeply ingrained in traditions and customs, often passed down from mothers to daughters as a cherished beauty ritual. However, it was actually my partner who inspired me to formulate oils to help his hair get stronger and stop shedding. It is not just for women, in fact, men can use it too.

Growing up, I always saw my mother lathering her hair and body with oils, in particular: olive oil. As this was abundant in Palestine. My mothers family have olive groves, which not only is a food source, but also provides communities with soap, pickled olives and more. It is a yearly tradition, in October, the season of Autumn. It is harvest season, where families come together and begin olive picking. It is seen as medicinal, and used for beauty purposes. It is a completely natural source of moisture. Some people even have a teaspoon first thing in the morning. My mother grew up with with this practice and passed it down to me.

The Art of Hair Oiling

Hair oiling involves massaging natural oils into the scalp and strands to moisturize, strengthen, and protect the hair. Traditionally, a variety of oils are used, each prized for its unique properties. Olive oil, with its rich emollient qualities, is favored for deep conditioning, while argan oil is renowned for its ability to add shine and manageability. Jojoba oil, closely resembling the skin's natural sebum, is cherished for its balancing and nourishing effects.

In Middle Eastern households, the art of hair oiling is often accompanied by rituals of self-care and relaxation. Warm oil is gently massaged into the scalp, stimulating circulation and promoting hair growth. The oil is then distributed through the lengths of the hair, coating each strand with a protective sheen. As the oil penetrates deeply into the hair shaft, it helps to repair damage, reduce breakage, and prevent split ends, leaving the hair so soft.

Benefits of Hair Oiling

The benefits of hair oiling extend far beyond mere aesthetics. Here are some of the advantages:

1. Nourishment and Hydration: Natural oils are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids, which deeply nourish and hydrate the hair, restoring its strength and vitality.

2. Strengthening and Growth: Regular oiling strengthens the hair follicles, reducing hair fall and promoting healthy growth. Massaging the scalp also stimulates blood flow, encouraging the delivery of nutrients to the hair roots.

3. Frizz Control and Shine: Oils coat the hair shaft, smoothing the cuticle and taming frizz, resulting in silky, manageable locks with a radiant shine.

4. Scalp Health: Oil massages help to maintain a healthy scalp by balancing oil production, soothing irritation, and relieving dryness or dandruff.

5. Cultural Connection: Beyond its physical benefits, hair oiling fosters a sense of cultural connection and heritage, serving as a cherished tradition passed down through generations.

I believe it is vital to embrace and cherish these traditions. There is a reason for them. I hope to inspire you to take notice of the small rituals you witness in your household. It can be the simplest of traditions but it is important to hold on to them. I didn't take too much notice as a child as it was a normal occurrence to see my Mother using oils daily. But today, I look back and I am so grateful for the wisdom passed on to me.  I never let a drop of oil go to waste. If I ever spill too much oil when handcrafting, or I spill oil on my bench table, there is no doubt I will be using leftovers all over my hair and skin.

The practice of hair oiling continues to inspire and transform hair till today. Whether you are looking to improve your hair health, or help your hair grow longer and healthier. It is a must-have for your hair care routine.

Love Amanda xo