# How Did Ancestral Communities Care for Their Textured Hair? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-05
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

![Seven moringa seeds are showcased, their internal complexities highlighted, suggesting powerful natural elements for enriching textured hair formulations and routines. This composition symbolizes holistic wellness and reflects ancestral heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/seven-moringa-seeds-displaying-seed-structures-and-potential-hair-care-uses.jpg)

![This captivating portrait highlights the artistry of braided protective styles, connecting to ancestral roots and holistic hair care practices. The subject](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-portrait-with-braided-protective-hairstyle-and-expressive-gaze.jpg)

## Roots

Across generations, from the sun-drenched savannas to the vibrant market squares of ancient civilizations, and through the resilient spirits that crossed vast oceans, the way ancestral communities attended to their [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) speaks volumes. It speaks of survival, of identity, of a profound connection to the earth and spirit. This intimate journey of caring for hair was seldom a mundane task. Instead, it was an act steeped in meaning, a dialogue between the individual and their collective past.

For those of us with hair that coils, kinks, and waves with a unique vitality, recognizing its heritage is not merely a historical exercise. It connects us to a living legacy, to the wisdom of our forebears whose hands, guided by generations of observation and instinct, understood its very architecture.

The intrinsic nature of textured hair, with its helical twists and turns, often meant specific needs were paramount for its thriving. Its density, elasticity, and the natural inclination to dryness necessitated methods that differed fundamentally from those suited for straighter strands. Early communities intuitively comprehended these distinctions, developing practices that honored the hair’s inherent characteristics. Each coil, each curve, was recognized as part of a biological truth, a fiber crafted by ancient design. 

![The monochrome composition draws focus to the detailed braid patterns and the textured bun, emphasizing the importance of protective styles in Black hair traditions. This image celebrates hair styling as a powerful form of heritage expression and individual identity through holistic hair care](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portraiture-woman-protective-hairstyling-braids-twisted-bun-with.jpg)

## What Defines Textured Hair’s Ancestral Form?

Understanding how ancestral communities cared for their textured hair begins with appreciating its fundamental biology. Hair, in its most basic form, is a protein filament, primarily keratin. However, the morphology of textured hair presents a distinct profile. Its elliptical cross-section, rather than round, along with an uneven distribution of keratin, contributes to its characteristic curl pattern.

This structural reality makes it prone to dryness and fracture points along the bends of its spiral. Ancestral peoples, without the benefit of modern microscopy, nevertheless understood this vulnerability. Their approaches centered on enriching the hair with moisture, strengthening its shaft, and reducing daily manipulation, all of which directly countered the environmental and mechanical stresses that could compromise its integrity. The wisdom gleaned from centuries of interaction with the natural world provided the solutions.

Hair type classification, while a modern construct, helps us conceptualize the spectrum of hair forms present in ancestral communities. While numbers and letters are recent inventions, the observable differences in curl tightness, strand thickness, and density were inherently recognized. These observations guided the selection of specific plant-based emollients, tools, and styling techniques. For instance, a community residing in a dry climate might prioritize heavy butters, while another in a humid region might opt for lighter oils and consistent cleansing. 

> Ancestral hair care was a dance with nature, a deep understanding of unique hair biology, and a profound reverence for its place in identity.

![Bathed in natural light, this tender scene encapsulates a mother](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-daughters-coily-hair-sunlight-natural-style-black-and-white.jpg)

## Hair as a Spiritual Connection

Beyond its physical properties, hair held a sacred position. In many ancestral African societies, hair was a powerful communication tool, symbolizing familial background, social standing, spiritual beliefs, tribal affiliation, and marital status. As early as the 15th century, various communities utilized hair to denote social hierarchy.

Mohamed Mbodj, an associate professor of history, observed that hair, being the highest point of the body, was regarded as the closest to the divine. This belief led to the understanding that communication could pass through the hair, making its care a sacred act often reserved for close family members.

The selection of specific [hair care](/area/hair-care/) lexicon reflects this deep cultural rooting. Terms associated with hair in ancestral settings often spoke not only of physical condition but also of spiritual well-being and communal belonging. A healthy head of hair signaled vitality, often tied to fertility and prosperity.

Conversely, neglecting hair during mourning, as observed in some cultures, visually communicated a temporary detachment from societal norms and spiritual engagement. This interplay between the tangible and the spiritual shaped every aspect of hair care, from daily practices to ceremonial preparations.

![Moringa seeds, captured in stark monochrome, symbolize a connection to ancient beauty rituals and the revitalization of holistic hair care for diverse textured hair. These seeds embody a legacy where tradition and natural ingredients converged, enriching well-being through mindful hair care practices and ancestral heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/moringa-seeds-holistic-hair-care-ingredient-in-black-and-white-detail.jpg)

![Echoing ancestral beauty rituals, the wooden hair fork signifies a commitment to holistic textured hair care. The monochromatic palette accentuates the timeless elegance, connecting contemporary styling with heritage and promoting wellness through mindful adornment for diverse black hair textures](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisan-crafted-wooden-hair-fork-for-textured-hair-holistic-care-rituals.jpg)

## Ritual

The methods by which ancestral communities attended to their textured hair were woven into daily life, often becoming communal events that transcended mere grooming. These traditions, passed down through the generations, embodied a sophisticated understanding of hair dynamics, long before the advent of modern chemistry. The acts of cleansing, anointing, and forming were not simply about aesthetics; they were ceremonial, practical, and deeply connected to cultural continuity. 

The art of styling, particularly protective styles, stands as a testament to ancestral ingenuity. These styles were designed with longevity and hair preservation in mind, a recognition of the hair’s need for minimal manipulation and environmental protection. Box braids, for example, a staple today, have origins in [African culture](/area/african-culture/) dating back thousands of years.

Each section was meticulously parted, creating patterns that were both visually striking and highly functional. This approach minimized breakage, allowing hair to grow while celebrating enduring cultural aesthetics.

![The image captures women’s involvement in food preparation alongside their head coverings reflective of cultural heritage, suggesting shared ancestral knowledge, with possible references to ingredients and practices that resonate with holistic textured hair wellness and traditions of beauty within their communities.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-sharing-food-preparation-ancestral-heritage-and-hair-care-traditions.jpg)

## How Did Ancestral Styling Protect and Adorn Hair?

In traditional African societies, protective styling was a cornerstone of textured hair care. Styles such as cornrows, twists, and locs were not merely decorative; they communicated social status, age, marital status, and even tribal affiliation. These complex patterns acted as a visual language, sharing stories of heritage and identity.

The braiding process itself was frequently a social event, a space for storytelling, sharing wisdom, and strengthening community bonds. Mothers would share ancestral narratives with their daughters as they braided, transferring not only skill but also oral history.

- **Cornrows** ❉ Also known as canerows, these were practical styles that also identified ethnic backgrounds and geographical locations in West Africa. Different styles could denote affiliation with groups like the Wolof, Mende, or Ashanti.

- **Locs** ❉ In some African cultures, these matted strands symbolized strength and connection to a higher power, often reserved for warriors or priests, as seen with the Akan people in Ghana.

- **Fulani Braids** ❉ Characterized by specific cornrow patterns in the front and individual braids in the back, these styles from the Fula tribe displayed wealth, familial connections, and marital status, often decorated with beads and cowrie shells.
The toolkit for hair care was resourceful, drawing directly from the natural environment. Combs carved from bone, shell, horn, or wood were common. For styling and stiffening hair, materials like buffalo dung or clay mixed with plant pigments were employed. Adornments were also significant.

Beads, cowrie shells, gold ornaments, and silver coins were integrated into hairstyles, further communicating status, wealth, or specific life stages. The Himba tribe of Namibia, for instance, used a mixture of clay and cow fat to create a unique hair paste for protection and detangling.

> Styling in ancestral communities was a communal artistry, a dialogue of identity and protection expressed through each braid and adornment.
The use of wigs and hair extensions also has a considerable historical lineage. In ancient Egypt, both men and women of the elite class wore elaborate wigs made from human hair, wool, and plant fibers, often adorned with gold or beads, signifying wealth and religious devotion. These artificial hairpieces served as symbols of hierarchy and divinity, embodying expressions of power and social cohesion. 

While modern heat styling carries certain risks, ancestral methods of straightening or altering hair texture, if practiced, were often less abrasive, relying on natural substances and gentle techniques. The focus was consistently on maintaining the hair’s intrinsic well-being rather than imposing drastic alterations. 

![The black and white tonality enhances the subjects](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-and-daughter-holding-plant-stems-sunlight-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

![This floral display mirrors the careful selection of natural ingredients for optimal Afro hair hydration and resilience. The monochrome palette enhances the organic textures, symbolizing a deep connection to ancestral heritage and the art of textured hair care](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-floral-arrangement-black-background-textured-hair-care-ingredients.jpg)

## Relay

The legacy of [ancestral hair care](/area/ancestral-hair-care/) extends beyond styling; it encompasses a holistic regimen, a mindful approach to nurturing hair that considered the body, spirit, and environment as interconnected. This comprehensive perspective, deeply rooted in inherited wisdom, offers profound insights for contemporary hair health. The journey of how ancestral communities cared for their textured hair reveals not just techniques but an enduring philosophy of wellness that honored the strands as a vital part of self and community. 

Building a regimen in ancestral times was about seasonality, local flora, and communal knowledge. It was not a rigid set of steps, but a responsive interaction with available resources and lived experience. The ingredients used were often potent botanicals, natural butters, and oils, chosen for their recognized properties to moisturize, cleanse, and fortify. 

![The aloe vera, a cornerstone in ancestral botanical practices, illuminates textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aloe-vera-composition-exploring-ancestral-herbal-traditions-and-textured-hair.jpg)

## How Did Ancestral Wisdom Guide Hair Wellness?

The practice of hair oiling, for instance, has been a timeless tradition across Africa and South Asia, passed down through generations for hair nourishment and protection. In West African traditions, oils and butters were consistently applied to maintain moisture in arid climates, often paired with protective styles. Shea butter, known as “women’s gold,” has been used for centuries in West Africa not only for skincare but also for hair care, providing moisture and protection from harsh environmental conditions. Historical accounts suggest figures like Cleopatra utilized [shea butter](/area/shea-butter/) for hair care, even having it transported from Africa. 

The Himba tribe of Namibia, as a specific historical example, applies a mixture of clay and cow fat to their hair, demonstrating a particular method of care that provides protection from the sun and aids in detangling. This is a powerful illustration of how ancestral practices, often less commonly cited in mainstream narratives, offered rigorous and effective solutions tailored to specific needs and environments. 

![Evoking the legacy of ancestral argan nut processing, this scene features a woman hand-grinding nuts, reflecting a commitment to traditional, natural methods deeply connected to hair and skin care heritage using time honored traditions and practices of cultural expression.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-crushing-argan-nuts-traditional-skin-and-hair-care-rituals-monochromatic.jpg)

## Ancestral Ingredients and Their Uses

The ancestral apothecary for hair was rich with ingredients sourced directly from nature. These elements were selected not only for their tangible benefits but often for their spiritual or symbolic associations. 

Nighttime rituals were also an integral part of [ancestral hair](/area/ancestral-hair/) preservation. While the bonnet as we know it today may have evolved, the concept of protecting hair during rest was certainly present. This could involve wrapping hair in cloths, braiding it into [protective styles](/area/protective-styles/) for sleeping, or coating it with butters to minimize tangling and moisture loss overnight. This practice maintained the integrity of carefully styled hair and prevented friction damage against rough surfaces, contributing to length retention and overall hair well-being. 

Addressing hair challenges was also approached with a blend of ancestral knowledge and practicality. Issues such as dryness or breakage were countered through consistent application of emollients and gentle styling. Scalp health was maintained through herbal treatments and massages to promote circulation, ensuring a healthy environment for hair growth. The wisdom of these communities extended beyond the superficial, recognizing that true [hair wellness](/area/hair-wellness/) originated from within, supported by external practices harmonizing with the body’s natural rhythms. 

![With meticulous care, the child etches designs in the sand, their Fulani braids a testament to ancestral heritage and protective styling traditions. Sebaceous balance and high-density coil care are subtly present, a tender depiction of self-expression within Black Hair Traditions through art and cultural roots](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/childs-artistry-fulani-braids-sebaceous-balance-black-hair-beach-heritage.jpg)

![This intimate monochromatic image showcases a mindful approach to dark, coiled hair maintenance through controlled combing, symbolizing a deep connection to ancestral grooming traditions and the art of nurturing one](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/person-combing-dark-coiled-hair-with-wooden-wide-toothed-comb.jpg)

## Reflection

To trace the lineage of [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) back through ancestral communities is to step into a vibrant, living archive. It is to sense the rhythmic hands braiding, the earthy scent of shea butter, the quiet reverence for a crown that held stories, status, and spirit. The journey reveals that our forebears were not merely grooming; they were engaging in acts of cultural preservation, spiritual connection, and collective identity-building. The care they gave to their hair was an echo of the care they gave to their communities, to their lineage, and to the very ground beneath their feet. 

This history reminds us that textured hair is far more than protein and pigment. It is a profound meditation on heritage, a testament to resilience, and a continuum stretching from the most ancient rituals to our present moments of self-care. The wisdom of ancestral practices ❉ the mindful selection of natural ingredients, the communal acts of styling, the spiritual weight given to each strand ❉ continues to inform and inspire. It invites us to honor the past not as a static artifact but as a dynamic source of strength, knowledge, and beauty that continues to unfold. 

![Hands gently work to form protective coils, reflecting deep rooted cultural traditions of textured hair care. This intimate moment connects to heritage, wellness, and the enduring legacy of styling Black hair, underscoring self expression within diverse communities](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-crafting-protective-styles-for-textured-hair-coils-and-heritage.jpg)

![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)

## References

- Omotoso, Adetutu. “African Hairstyles ❉ The ‘Dreaded’ Colonial Legacy.” The Gale Review, November 23, 2021.

- Afriklens. “African Hairstyles: Cultural Significance and Legacy.” Afriklens.com, November 1, 2024.

- Okan Africa Blog. “The significance of hair in African culture.” OkanAfrica.com, October 8, 2020.

- Discovering the Origins of Shea Butter – A Journey to the Heart of Africa. NiaSouls.com, February 10, 2024.

- 22 Ayur. “The Ancient Natural Ways of Hair Care Across Continents.” 22Ayur.com.

- Glamour Garden. “Traditional Indigenous Haircare: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Hair Concerns.” GlamourGarden.com, December 11, 2023.

- Hair Care Secrets of the Past: What Our Ancestors Used for Healthy Hair. TheDermCafes.com, August 19, 2024.

- The Spiritual Significance of African Hair this International Women’s Day and Beyond. UmthiBeauty.com, March 8, 2022.

- Africa.com. “A History Of African Women’s Hairstyles.” Africa.com.

- Cécred. “Understanding Hair Oiling: History, Benefits & More.” Cecred.com, April 15, 2025.

- ICT News. “5 Reasons Natives Have Lustrous Locks: Ancient, Indigenous Hair Remedies.” IndianCountryToday.com.

- SheaButter.net. “A History of Shea Butter.” SheaButter.net.

- SEAMS Beauty. “The History Of Shea Butter.” SeamsBeauty.co.uk, January 8, 2018.

- Egyptra Travel Services. “From Ancient Egypt to Modern Beauty: Timeless Cosmetic Secrets.” Egyptra.com, February 1, 2025.

- Les jardins d’Aissa. “100% natural and organic restorative hair care.” LesJardinsDAissa.com.

- Hair.com By L’Oréal. “The Importance of Indigenous Hair In Native Culture.” Hair.com.

- Wikipedia. “Shea butter.” Wikipedia.org.

- Refinery29. “Are We Really Not Supposed To Use Oils On Natural Hair?” Refinery29.com, April 14, 2022.

- Historical Perspectives on Hair Care and Common Styling Practices in Black Women. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, March 4, 2025.

- Beautycon.com. “18 Tribal Braid Hairstyles to Bookmark For Your Stylist.” Beautycon.com, July 5, 2024.

- Odele Beauty. “A History Lesson On Hair Braiding.” OdeleBeauty.com, January 16, 2024.

- Copyright. “The Art of Healing: A Nostalgic Ode to Black Hair Braiding.” Copyright.gov, February 16, 2022.

- The Zoe Report. “22 Protective Styles To Help Your Natural Hair Grow Longer & Stronger.” TheZoeReport.com, July 26, 2020.

- BRAIDSTOP. “The Rich History of Braids: A Celebration of African Heritage.” Braidstop.com, February 10, 2025.

- McLeod, M. O. Hair in African Art and Culture. University of Washington Press, 2000.

- Bernatzik, Hugo Adolf. The Dark Continent: Africa as seen by its explorers and travellers. New York: Bobbs-Merrill, 1929.

- Tharps, Lori L. and Ayana Byrd. Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St. Martin’s Press, 2001.

## Glossary

### [Hair Oiling Traditions](https://roothea.co/area/hair-oiling-traditions/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Oiling Traditions refer to established practices of applying botanical oils to the scalp and hair strands, a foundational element within Black and mixed-race hair care systems.

### [Hair Preservation Methods](https://roothea.co/area/hair-preservation-methods/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Preservation Methods denote a collection of attentive approaches designed to sustain the inherent vitality and structural integrity of coily, kinky, and wavy strands.

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

Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage.

### [Hair Wellness](https://roothea.co/area/hair-wellness/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Wellness, specifically for textured hair, describes a gentle understanding of its distinct physical makeup, including coil structures, porosity levels, and how individual strands respond to their environment.

### [Hair Breakage Prevention](https://roothea.co/area/hair-breakage-prevention/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Breakage Prevention refers to the intentional practices and informed understanding aimed at preserving the structural integrity of textured hair, particularly for Black and mixed-race hair, by minimizing physical damage and environmental stressors.

### [Ancestral Hair](https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Ancestral Hair refers to the inherited genetic characteristics and structural predispositions of one's hair, particularly significant for individuals with Black or mixed-race heritage.

### [Traditional Hair Styling](https://roothea.co/area/traditional-hair-styling/)

Meaning ❉ Traditional Hair Styling, within the context of textured hair, denotes a collection of time-honored practices passed down through generations, deeply connected to heritage and community well-being.

### [Hair and Spirituality](https://roothea.co/area/hair-and-spirituality/)

Meaning ❉ Hair and Spirituality denotes the tender bond between an individual's inner landscape and the physical presence of their hair, especially for those with textured hair.

### [Black Hair History](https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-history/)

Meaning ❉ Black Hair History represents the accumulated knowledge and evolving practices surrounding textured hair care and styling across generations and continents, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals.

### [African Culture](https://roothea.co/area/african-culture/)

Meaning ❉ African Culture, as it pertains to the understanding of textured hair, offers a gentle guiding hand for those tending to Black and mixed-race strands.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Did Ancient Peoples Adorn Their Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-peoples-adorn-their-textured-hair/)
![This portrait reflects beauty within 4c high-density coily hair textures, adorned in a skillfully executed braided updo, representing ancestral strength and cultural pride. The style highlights micro braiding artistry and the embracing of natural sebaceous balance, while celebrating African heritage within expressive styling and holistic hair care traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-braided-updo-reflecting-ancestral-heritage-and-coily-hair.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Colonial Laws Impact Head Covering Traditions and Their Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-colonial-laws-impact-head-covering-traditions-and-their-heritage/)
![This striking portrait celebrates the beauty and cultural significance of locs, a protective style often representing ancestral heritage and a connection to Black hair traditions. The luminous backdrop contrasts with shadowed areas to create a deep, contemplative focus on identity and pride.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-protective-locs-and-natural-radiance.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Hair Care Practices Promoted Resilience in Black Communities?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-hair-care-practices-promoted-resilience-in-black-communities/)
![Echoing ancestral beauty rituals, the wooden hair fork signifies a commitment to holistic textured hair care. The monochromatic palette accentuates the timeless elegance, connecting contemporary styling with heritage and promoting wellness through mindful adornment for diverse black hair textures.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisan-crafted-wooden-hair-fork-for-textured-hair-holistic-care-rituals.jpg)

### [How Did Ancestral Foodways Influence Scalp Vitality in Diverse Heritage Communities?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancestral-foodways-influence-scalp-vitality-in-diverse-heritage-communities/)
![This evocative portrait explores the allure of textured hair and the elegance of monochromatic rendering the interplay of light accentuates the hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-with-flowing-textured-hair-and-striking-features.jpg)

### [How Did Ancient Communities Care for Coils?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-communities-care-for-coils/)
![This potent, dark powder embodies ancestral wisdom, offering a gateway to the restoration and strengthening of textured hair, evoking images of time-honored Black hair traditions focused on deep cleansing, natural vitality, and rooted identity.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/fine-textured-powder-ashy-pigment-close-up-for-black-hair-mask.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Enslaved Africans Preserve Their Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-enslaved-africans-preserve-their-hair-heritage/)
![The somber black and white tones elevate this arresting portrait of an elder adorned with traditional braids and woven headwear, a poignant reminder of cultural resilience passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of honoring textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-traditional-african-braids-and-woven-headdress-in-black.jpg)

### [How Did Ancient Communities Keep Textured Hair Soft?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-communities-keep-textured-hair-soft/)
![The woman’s striking Afro, a showcase of coils and helix structure, presents a balanced sebaceous vitality reflective of holistic hair care, echoing ancestral Black hair traditions. The radiant beauty and soft glow highlight the importance of balance and overall vitality in embracing expressive styling and celebrating natural hair forms.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/radiant-afro-elegance-natural-hair-beauty-sebaceous-balance-holistic-shine.jpg)

### [How Did West African Communities Traditionally Use Shea Butter for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-west-african-communities-traditionally-use-shea-butter-for-textured-hair/)
![The striking interplay of light and shadow across layered leaves mirrors the varied tones and rich textures within black hair. This composition invites reflection on ancestral knowledge and the potent botanical ingredients traditionally cherished for nourishing and supporting healthy coil definition and resilience.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-leaves-reveal-textural-depths-black-hair-ingredient-inspiration.jpg)

### [What Historical Cleansing Agents Were Used for Black Hair and Their Scientific Basis?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-cleansing-agents-were-used-for-black-hair-and-their-scientific-basis/)
![This black and white study captures a young girl](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-girl-with-voluminous-afro-textured-hair-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

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                "text": " The practice of hair oiling, for instance, has been a timeless tradition across Africa and South Asia, passed down through generations for hair nourishment and protection. In West African traditions, oils and butters were consistently applied to maintain moisture in arid climates, often paired with protective styles. Shea butter, known as \"women's gold,\" has been used for centuries in West Africa not only for skincare but also for hair care, providing moisture and protection from harsh environmental conditions. Historical accounts suggest figures like Cleopatra utilized shea butter for hair care, even having it transported from Africa. "
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

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```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancestral-communities-care-for-their-textured-hair/
