I am into the same thing these days. I have always had hair a little longer then my shoulder length. Now i want to make them long. Last time i got the trimming by the end of December. Ever since, I have never washed them without putting in oil or something. This is what i have been using on alternate basis. Amla oil (roasted mathi dana, crushed and put it in the oil bottle), Olive oil (I have put rosemary in it) and almond oil. I warm the oil in microwave, at times mix castor oil in it and apply in my hair. Then wrap a warm towel for around 30 minutes and then wash. I also use egg, yogurt mixture at times. At times i blend the oil with aloe vera gel. From what i learnt:
Amla oil, rosemary and mathi dani helps hair grow quicker.
Olive oil, aloe vera gel gives hair a lot of shine and moisturizes them.
Egg with yogurt builds the structure of the strand and strengthens hair.
I have noticed a quicker growth in my hair. It must be around 2 inches. Also, my hair texture has improved a lot since i had almost ruin it thanks to straightener. And, oh yes, no straightener for last two months. I blow dry them on low heat. I use this serum called blow and go by nicky clarke(its for heat protection and also gives a sleek look).
I know its a lot of hassle, but on the end its worth it.
oh wow thats too much. but i know it needs hardwork and attention. Thanks alot for sharing your totkas with me. At least i can try something from it , like getting all these oils and use them before taking bath.
I know good massage helps too. My sis has a house maid and sis told me to tell the maid if i want hair massage but i feel too shy to tell this to her maid :-S