Fact Check: Video promoting mixture of curry leaves, coconut milk and jaggery as cure for hair fall, ulcers is misleading

An Instagram video in Tamil is viral with the claim that a mixture of curry leaves, coconut milk and jaggery power reduces hair fall, strengthens hair and cures ulcers.

Fact Check

NewsMeter found that the claim was misleading as more research is required to determine the mixture’s ability to improve hair health and cure ulcers.

Dr Sushma Sukruthi S, assistant professor and consultant dermatologist and trichologist at Kamineni Academy of Medical Sciences and Research Centre here, said, “Coconut milk contains lauric acid and proteins that can help strengthen hair. It also provides antioxidants, along with vitamins C, E, and B complex. However, more research is needed to determine whether these micronutrients have a significant impact on hair growth. Coconut oil and milk may potentially worsen dandruff due to their high-fat content.”

The second ingredient mentioned in the video is curry leaves, which are commonly used in South Indian cuisines, in dried, fried and sauteed forms to give the dish a special flavour.

“Curry leaves are rich in beta carotene which supports hair growth. However, the amounts present in the food we consume are minimal and the bioavailability of these nutrients in the bloodstream is quite low,” Dr Sushma said.

While jaggery is usually recommended as an alternative to white sugar, it has the same properties concerning its glucose contents.

“Jaggery can cause a glucose spike similar to sugar. Consuming it in excess can exacerbate hair loss and baldness, especially in those with pre-existing conditions like PCOS or insulin resistance,” Dr Sushma added.

Effect on ulcers

Another claim in the video is that the mixture can cure ulcers.

As per a paper in the Royal Society of Chemistry, the chemical Girinimbine in curry leaves can promote gastroprotection against ethanol-induced peptic ulcers.

“Our results clearly indicated that Girinimbine displayed a significant gastro-protection effect, via the capacity to inhibit inflammatory responses and antioxidant potential,” the authors stated in the report.

The study followed inconclusive results from earlier studies on the effect of the specific phytochemical responsible for the protection from ulcers.

Suggested treatments

Experts suggest consulting a dermatologist for individuals experiencing active hair fall (losing more than 100 hairs per day) or baldness. They can assess nutrient deficiencies and recommend appropriate treatments to address them.

“Therefore, people dealing with hair fall, baldness, patchy hair loss or dandruff are advised to visit a dermatologist for proper treatment. For those without hair issues, these remedies can be used mindfully in moderation to boost micronutrient levels and support overall health,” Dr Sushma said.