# Do Ancestral Herbs Truly Strengthen Textured Hair? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-05-30
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

![Through the ritualistic application of smoking herbs to the textured hair, the photograph profoundly narrates ancestral resilience, embracing holistic hair care, connecting wellness and historical practice symbolizing a bridge between heritage and contemporary Black hair identity while creating the perfect expert-like SEO image mark up.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ritual-purification-with-smoldering-herbs-for-afro-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

![Embracing ancestral heritage, the portrait celebrates textured hair with carefully placed braids, a visual narrative resonating with expressive styling and holistic care. The interplay of light and shadow reinforces the strength of identity, mirroring the beauty and resilience inherent in the natural hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-young-woman-with-braided-hair-accents-and-textured-hair.jpg)

## Roots

For those who carry the legacy of textured hair, the question of its care extends far beyond superficial concerns of appearance. It delves into the very core of identity, ancestry, and a profound connection to generations past. To ask, “Do [ancestral herbs](/area/ancestral-herbs/) truly strengthen textured hair?” is to embark on a journey through time, a meditation on the enduring wisdom passed down through hands that braided, twisted, and tended to crowns for millennia. It is to acknowledge a heritage that has often been overlooked, misunderstood, or even deliberately suppressed, yet continues to flourish with remarkable resilience. 

Our textured hair, with its unique coil and curl patterns, possesses an inherent strength, yet also a delicate nature that demands specific understanding. This understanding was not born in modern laboratories, but in the intimate, generational knowledge of communities who lived in harmony with the earth’s offerings. The very structure of textured hair, characterized by its elliptical cross-section and often a more open cuticle, influences its moisture retention and susceptibility to breakage. This distinct architecture, while lending itself to incredible versatility and volume, also presents particular needs that ancestral practices, steeped in natural ingredients, often addressed with remarkable foresight. 

> Ancestral herbs offer a profound connection to the historical wisdom of textured hair care, validating their role in strengthening strands across generations.

![This portrait captures the strength and beauty of a Black woman, whose sculpted textured hair and confident gaze narrate stories of heritage, identity, and self-expression. The interplay of light and shadow celebrates the richness of melanated skin and the artistry within ancestral African hair traditions](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-black-woman-with-elegant-textured-hair-sculpture.jpg)

## What Is the Fundamental Structure of Textured Hair?

The architecture of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) is a marvel, a testament to nature’s diverse expressions. Each strand is a complex biological filament, primarily composed of a protein called **keratin**. This keratin forms three distinct layers: 

- **Cuticle** ❉ The outermost protective layer, resembling overlapping scales, which safeguards the inner structures. Its arrangement significantly influences how moisture enters and leaves the hair.

- **Cortex** ❉ The thickest layer, providing the hair’s strength, elasticity, and color. The unique coiling of keratin proteins within the cortex contributes to the hair’s characteristic curl.

- **Medulla** ❉ The innermost core, though not present in all hair types, contributes to volume, strength, and texture.
The shape of the hair follicle itself, rather than the hair shaft, is the primary determinant of hair texture. A more elliptical follicle yields curlier hair, while a rounder follicle produces straighter strands. This biological blueprint is where the journey of ancestral care begins, recognizing the inherent needs of these unique hair forms. 

![This evocative portrait immortalizes resilience, revealing an elder](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elders-textured-legacy-natural-coils-high-porosity-hair-aesthetics.jpg)

## How Did Ancient Societies Understand Hair Biology?

Long before the advent of modern microscopy or genetic sequencing, ancient societies possessed an intuitive, observational understanding of hair biology. Their knowledge was empirical, gathered through centuries of trial and error, passed down through oral traditions and communal rituals. They recognized that hair health was intertwined with overall well-being, a concept now validated by contemporary science. For example, the ancient Egyptians, renowned for their sophisticated beauty rituals, used ingredients like castor oil, honey, and fenugreek.

Castor oil, still popular today, was prized for its moisturizing properties and ability to strengthen hair, while honey, a natural humectant, drew moisture into the hair. These practices, rooted in a deep respect for natural remedies, speak to an early form of scientific inquiry, albeit one guided by tradition and observation rather than laboratory analysis.

![Sunlight catches the halo of textured hair as a mother gently tends to her mixed-race child’s hair this nurturing act honors ancestral heritage and a commitment to the specialized care routines vital for strong, healthy, type 3C/4A curl formation, reflecting deep cultural and familial connection.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-natural-textured-hair-of-mixed-race-child-outdoors-sunlight.jpg)

![The braided fiber](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woven-braided-strand-pattern-black-and-white-textured-fiber.jpg)

## Ritual

To consider the application of ancestral herbs for strengthening textured hair is to step into a space where knowledge is not merely acquired but lived, breathed, and passed through the tender touch of generations. It invites us to move beyond a simple query and into the realm of shared practice, where the hands that mix the balm and braid the strands carry stories older than written texts. This section delves into the practical wisdom of these ancient traditions, exploring how they have shaped and continue to shape the daily care of textured hair, honoring the heritage of these rituals. 

The journey of textured hair care, particularly for Black and mixed-race communities, has been one of profound resilience and ingenuity. Forced displacement during the transatlantic slave trade severed many from their traditional tools and familiar ingredients, yet the spirit of ancestral care persisted. Enslaved African women, for example, ingeniously braided rice seeds into their hair as a means of survival and cultural preservation. This act, born of necessity, highlights the deep connection between [hair practices](/area/hair-practices/) and the continuity of heritage, a testament to an unwavering commitment to self and lineage even in the face of immense adversity. 

> The communal act of braiding, a cornerstone of ancestral hair care, reinforces social bonds and transmits cultural knowledge across generations.

![Embracing ancestral wisdom, the hands prepare a rice water rinse, a treasured holistic practice for enhancing textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-washing-rice-for-textured-hair-rinse-holistic-ancestral-practice.jpg)

## What Traditional Hair Care Rituals Were Common?

Across various ancestral communities, [hair care](/area/hair-care/) was rarely a solitary act; it was a communal ritual, a time for storytelling, bonding, and the transmission of knowledge. These practices were not just about aesthetics; they were deeply symbolic, communicating identity, social status, and even spiritual beliefs. 

- **Oiling and Scalp Massage** ❉ The application of nourishing oils, often infused with herbs, was a central practice. This was not simply for lubrication, but also for stimulating the scalp, promoting circulation, and delivering vital nutrients to the hair follicles. Ancient Egyptians used castor oil, honey, and beeswax for conditioning and shine.

- **Herbal Rinses and Washes** ❉ Many cultures utilized herbal infusions as gentle cleansers and conditioners, avoiding harsh chemicals. Ingredients like yucca root in Native American traditions or shikakai in Ayurvedic practices served as natural shampoos, respecting the hair’s delicate balance.

- **Protective Styling** ❉ Braids, twists, and locs, deeply rooted in African heritage, served as more than just hairstyles. They were protective measures, minimizing manipulation and safeguarding the hair from environmental stressors. These styles also functioned as visual markers of identity and even covert communication during times of oppression.

![The image celebrates natural textured hair, as a vital part of Black identity and pride, with a timeless and elegant portrait in monochrome. She embodies strength and beauty through her confident gaze and perfectly shaped afro, making a powerful statement about self-acceptance and ancestral beauty practices](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-a-woman-with-natural-afro-hair.jpg)

## How Do Ancestral Herbs Contribute to Hair Strength?

The efficacy of ancestral herbs in strengthening textured hair lies in their rich biochemical compositions. These plants, utilized for centuries, contain compounds that address common concerns for textured hair, such as dryness and breakage. 

Consider **Chebe powder**, traditionally used by the Basara women of Chad. This blend of herbs and spices, including the Croton zambesicus plant, is known for its ability to retain moisture, reduce breakage, and strengthen hair strands. When applied with oil, it creates a protective barrier around the hair, preventing moisture loss and enhancing elasticity. The practice is not about direct application to the scalp, which could clog pores, but rather infusing it into oils or butters that are then applied to the hair itself. 

Another example is **Rooibos**, a South African herb rich in antioxidants, zinc, and copper. It supports hair health by combating oxidative stress on the scalp, improving blood circulation to the scalp, and strengthening hair roots. This botanical support helps reduce hair fall and contributes to a healthier environment for hair growth. 

In Ayurvedic traditions, herbs like **Amla** (Indian gooseberry) are celebrated for their high vitamin C and antioxidant content, which strengthens [hair follicles](/area/hair-follicles/) and reduces hair loss. Similarly, **Hibiscus**, with its vitamins A and C and amino acids, nourishes hair, reduces thinning, and helps balance scalp pH. These herbs, often combined with oils, create potent treatments that address various hair concerns, reflecting a holistic approach to hair wellness. 

![The portrait captures a profound sense of wisdom and strength emanating from her detailed afro braided hair, reflecting African ancestral beauty traditions. Woven hair ornaments enhance textured elegance, a legacy of holistic cultural expressions and enduring commitment to heritage and wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-braided-afro-textured-hair-and-traditional-adornments.jpg)

![An evocative glimpse into ancestral wisdom, the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-grinding-herbs-ancestral-hair-care-ritual-textured-hair-wellness.jpg)

## Relay

The journey of textured hair, its heritage, and its care extends beyond the whispers of ancient rituals, finding its voice in the continuous relay of knowledge that bridges past and present. To truly grasp the essence of “Do ancestral herbs truly strengthen textured hair?” requires us to look at how these enduring practices have shaped not only individual strands but also collective narratives and futures. This exploration invites a deeper consideration of the interplay between scientific understanding, cultural continuity, and the profound legacy woven into every coil and curl. 

The historical context of textured hair is one of both struggle and triumph. During periods of enslavement, hair was often forcibly shaved as a means of dehumanization and severing cultural ties. Yet, even in such oppressive circumstances, enslaved individuals found ways to maintain their hair, using homemade products and traditional techniques as acts of quiet resistance and preservation of identity.

This deep-seated resilience, evident in the survival of practices like cornrows being used to communicate escape routes, underscores the profound significance of hair within Black and mixed-race heritage. The natural hair movement of the 1960s and 70s, a powerful statement against Eurocentric beauty standards, further cemented the role of textured hair as a symbol of pride and resistance, a legacy that continues to resonate today.

> The scientific validation of ancestral herbal practices provides a compelling bridge between ancient wisdom and modern understanding, enriching the heritage of textured hair care.

![This monochromatic image exudes serene strength and grace, highlighting the beauty of natural coiled hair. The woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochromatic-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-natural-coiled-hair.jpg)

## How Does Science Validate Ancestral Herbal Wisdom?

Modern science, with its analytical tools and methodologies, has begun to peel back the layers of ancestral herbal wisdom, often confirming what communities have known intuitively for centuries. The strengthening effect of certain herbs on textured hair can be attributed to their active compounds interacting with the hair’s biological structure. 

For instance, the keratins that form the hair shaft are held together by various chemical bonds, with disulfide bonds being the strongest and most crucial for maintaining hair shape and mechanical strength. While these bonds are primarily influenced by genetics, the overall health and integrity of the hair are significantly affected by external factors, including nourishment. Herbs rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can contribute to the healthy production of keratinocytes, the cells that form hair. 

Consider **fenugreek**. Ancient Egyptians used it for shiny, thick locks, and today, we understand its seeds are packed with proteins and nicotinic acid, which strengthen hair, reduce dandruff, and promote growth. The ability of herbs like **rosemary** to boost scalp circulation, as recognized in medieval Europe, is now scientifically linked to promoting [hair growth](/area/hair-growth/) by delivering more nutrients to the hair follicles. 

The moisturizing properties of herbs like **aloe vera** and **calendula**, historically used to hydrate and soothe, are now understood in terms of their ability to draw in and lock moisture, smoothing the hair cuticle and enhancing natural shine. This convergence of ancient practice and contemporary understanding offers a powerful testament to the efficacy of these traditional remedies. 

![The image conveys a moment of intimate care, as hands apply a rich moisturizer to tightly coiled hair, celebrating the beauty and strength of Black hair traditions and holistic care. This act embodies cultural identity, ancestral connection, and wellness for expressive styling, nourishing the hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/nourishing-textured-hair-deep-moisture-treatment-application-black-and-white.jpg)

## What Is the Cultural and Historical Impact of Hair Practices?

Beyond their physiological benefits, [ancestral hair](/area/ancestral-hair/) practices carry immense cultural and historical weight. They are not merely routines but living archives, embodying the collective memory and identity of Black and mixed-race communities. 

In pre-colonial African societies, hair was a powerful identifier. A person’s hairstyle could communicate their age, marital status, tribal affiliation, wealth, and social rank. The intricate braiding techniques were skills passed down through generations, often during communal sessions that fostered strong social bonds. This communal aspect of hair care reinforced family and community ties, serving as a vital mechanism for cultural continuity. 

The deliberate acts of maintaining traditional hairstyles during slavery, such as the use of cornrows to map escape routes or hide seeds, transformed hair into a symbol of resistance and a tool for survival. This period highlights how hair became a canvas for asserting identity and resisting forced assimilation, even when faced with the imposition of Eurocentric beauty standards. 

Today, the legacy of these practices continues to shape self-perception and community identity. The resurgence of natural hair traditions across the African diaspora, celebrated in festivals and expos, represents a reclaiming of heritage and a celebration of unique beauty. Hair stylists, in this context, play a crucial role in cultural preservation, passing down traditional techniques, educating communities, and helping individuals connect with their cultural roots. 

![In a ritual steeped in ancestral wisdom, hands infuse botanicals for a nurturing hair rinse, bridging heritage with holistic wellness practices tailored for textured formations. It](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-preparing-herbal-hair-rinse-for-textured-hair-wellness.jpg)

![Elegant in monochrome, the portrait celebrates the beauty and strength embodied within afro textured hair, a coil crown, and classic style. The image is an ode to heritage, resilience, and the power of self-expression through textured hair forms, deeply rooted in Black hair traditions and ancestral pride](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-and-classic-dress.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey through ancestral herbs and their connection to strengthening textured hair reveals a profound truth: our hair is more than just strands; it is a living, breathing archive of heritage. From the elemental biology of the coil to the intricate rituals passed down through generations, and the contemporary validation of ancient wisdom, each aspect underscores the enduring legacy of textured hair. This exploration is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and deep cultural roots of Black and mixed-race communities, whose practices offer a timeless guide to holistic hair wellness. It reminds us that caring for our hair is not merely a routine, but an act of reverence for those who came before us, a celebration of identity, and a commitment to carrying forward a vibrant heritage into the future. 

![The image beautifully expresses the strength and elegance found in textured hair, celebrating mixed heritage through carefully sculpted coils and polished details. Her style echoes ancestral roots, emphasizing holistic self-expression and artistic hair traditions with a touch of modern sophistication](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-coiled-textured-hair-in-striking-black-and-white.jpg)

![This expressive monochrome portrait captures the inherent beauty and volume of spiraling textured hair, highlighting cultural connections to textured hair traditions the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-woman-with-long-spiraling-textured-hair-style.jpg)

## References

- Byrd, A. D. & Tharps, L. (2001). Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St. Martin’s Press.

- Jacobs-Huey, L. (2006). From the Kitchen to the Salon: Black Women’s Hair Culture in America. Routledge.

- Mercer, K. (1994). Welcome to the Jungle: New Positions in Cultural Studies. Routledge.

- Patton, M. F. (2006). Twisted: My Dreadlock Chronicles. Amistad.

- Rooks, N. M. (1996). Hair Raising: Beauty, Culture, and African American Women. Rutgers University Press.

- Sherrow, V. (2006). Encyclopedia of Hair: A Cultural History. Greenwood Press.

- Omotoso, S. A. (2017). Gender and Hair Politics: An African Philosophical Analysis. Journal of Pan African Studies, 10(7), 164-180.

- Okpalaojiego, J. (2024). The Remarkable History Behind Black Hairstyles. University of Salford Students’ Union.

- Ardyn Boone, S. (1986). Radiance from the Waters: Ideals of Feminine Beauty in Mende Art. Yale University Press.

- Monteiro, A. M. & Dias, C. A. (2022). The Genomic Variation in Textured Hair: Implications in Developing a Holistic Hair Care Routine. Cosmetics, 9(4), 84.

## Glossary

### [Mucilage Herbs](https://roothea.co/area/mucilage-herbs/)

Meaning ❉ Mucilage herbs are botanical allies, recognized for their unique ability to yield a viscous, hydrating gel when introduced to water.

### [Cultural Hair](https://roothea.co/area/cultural-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Cultural Hair softly reveals the accumulated wisdom and precise care tenets that stem from the distinct biophysical attributes of textured hair, especially the graceful coils and unique kinks often present within Black and mixed-race heritages.

### [African Herbs](https://roothea.co/area/african-herbs/)

Meaning ❉ African Herbs, in the realm of textured hair understanding, denote a select array of botanical gifts historically utilized across the African continent for their established efficacy in scalp vitality and hair fiber resilience.

### [Hair Care](https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands.

### [Textured Hair](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage.

### [African Diaspora Hair](https://roothea.co/area/african-diaspora-hair/)

Meaning ❉ African Diaspora Hair tenderly describes the expansive array of hair textures and formations belonging to individuals of African lineage across the globe.

### [Indian Hair Herbs](https://roothea.co/area/indian-hair-herbs/)

Meaning ❉ Indian Hair Herbs denote a collection of revered botanicals, often sourced from ancient Ayurvedic traditions, carefully selected for their unique properties that support hair wellness.

### [Traditional Herbs](https://roothea.co/area/traditional-herbs/)

Meaning ❉ Traditional Herbs denote botanical elements, historically relied upon across diverse cultures, particularly within Black and mixed-race communities, for maintaining hair and scalp vitality.

### [Hair Follicles](https://roothea.co/area/hair-follicles/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Follicles signify the tender, foundational dwellings situated beneath the scalp's surface, acting as the primary biological compass for every unique strand of textured hair.

### [Hair Practices](https://roothea.co/area/hair-practices/)

Meaning ❉ "Hair Practices" refers to the considered actions and routines applied to the care, maintenance, and presentation of one's hair, particularly pertinent for textured hair types, including Black and mixed-race hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [Which Ancestral Herbs Promote Scalp Wellness for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/which-ancestral-herbs-promote-scalp-wellness-for-textured-hair/)
![Through focused hands shaping hair, artistry unfolds, preserving Black haircare heritage. This intimate moment reveals beauty standards while honoring ancestral methods and providing versatile styling options to promote scalp health and celebrate community through intricate woven patterns and design.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intricate-braiding-process-showcases-textured-hair-artistry-and-cultural.jpg)

### [How Do Shea Butter Compounds Strengthen Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-shea-butter-compounds-strengthen-textured-hair/)
![Her confident gaze and signature coiled textured hair, styled with a modern undercut, speaks volumes about the blend of ancestral heritage and expressive styling. This portrait is an ode to natural formations, and individuality, fostering conversations around black hair traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-coiled-textured-hair-and-undercut.jpg)

### [How Do Amazonian Plant Lipids Strengthen Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-amazonian-plant-lipids-strengthen-textured-hair/)
![This evocative image explores the harmonious blend of natural beauty and the life-giving element of water, celebrating the resilience and organic elegance of textured Black hair. The monochromatic treatment draws attention to the depth of tone and the intricate formation of each glistening strand, a testament to ancestral heritage.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-textured-hair-adorned-with-water.jpg)

### [Can Ancient Plant Remedies Truly Strengthen Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/can-ancient-plant-remedies-truly-strengthen-textured-hair/)
![Heritage intertwines with haircare rituals as grandmother and child collaborate on herbal remedies, a testament to holistic wellness. Transmitting ancestral knowledge enhances the child](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-wisdom-black-hair-ancestral-roots-holistic-ingredient-preparation.jpg)

### [Mucilage Herbs](https://roothea.co/term/mucilage-herbs/)
![The monochrome portrait celebrates the beauty of braided textured hair, echoing ancestral strength and cultural expression. The meticulous braiding technique highlights the diverse styling possibilities within Black hair traditions, while the subject](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-braided-textured-hair-beauty.jpg)

### [Can Plant-Based Routines Truly Strengthen Cultural Identity for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/can-plant-based-routines-truly-strengthen-cultural-identity-for-textured-hair/)
![This evocative portrait immortalizes resilience, revealing an elder](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elders-textured-legacy-natural-coils-high-porosity-hair-aesthetics.jpg)

### [Can Textured Hair Truly Reclaim Its Ancestral Reverence in Modern Times?](https://roothea.co/question/can-textured-hair-truly-reclaim-its-ancestral-reverence-in-modern-times/)
![This image celebrates the elegance and power of afro hair, highlighting its natural texture and the confident beauty of its wearer. The contrast of light and dark enhances the inherent sophistication of her style, reflecting ancestral heritage and modern expression.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-in-leather-jacket.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Foods Strengthen Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-foods-strengthen-textured-hair/)
![The monochrome portrait features a Black woman with sleek lines, revealing both beauty and bold choices in personal presentation that honor skin and style, and embracing a contemporary aesthetic that complements her features, creating a strong visual statement about identity and self-expression.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochromatic-portrait-of-a-bald-black-woman-with-skin-highlight.jpg)

### [What Specific Plant Compounds Strengthen Textured Hair from Historical Perspectives?](https://roothea.co/question/what-specific-plant-compounds-strengthen-textured-hair-from-historical-perspectives/)
![The monochromatic study evokes a sense of calm while hinting at ancestral heritage, as the softly lit coiled textured hair suggests holistic care traditions passed down through generations, showcasing a commitment to hair wellness and historical hair care practices honoring resilient formations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-young-person-resting-with-textured-hair-details.jpg)

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            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Diaspora Hair tenderly describes the expansive array of hair textures and formations belonging to individuals of African lineage across the globe."
        },
        {
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/indian-hair-herbs/",
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Indian Hair Herbs denote a collection of revered botanicals, often sourced from ancient Ayurvedic traditions, carefully selected for their unique properties that support hair wellness."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
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```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/do-ancestral-herbs-truly-strengthen-textured-hair/
