Since time immemorial, people have looked to herbs to support healthy, beautiful hair. In the modern world, however, mainstream haircare products are typically made from chemicals: including sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, formaldehyde, phthalates like DEHP, and other toxic ingredients. When we use these products, we increase our exposure to potentially harmful chemicals every time we wash and/or style our hair. It behooves us to take a look at natural herbal haircare practices. As well as being chemical-free, the best haircare herbs are time-tested; they have been used by humans for thousands of years. Herbal blends, infusions, extracts, and other botanical formulations bring the power of nature to nourish and stimulate the scalp, strengthen and moisturize follicles, soften hair, restore shine and bounce, help with manageability, and more.
For many of us, the prevalence of chemicals in our hair and skin care products has become personal. Diagnosed multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS) have increased by over 300% since 2008. Symptoms can include skin rashes, burning or watery eyes, increased or irregular heartbeat, migraine headaches, dizziness, asthma symptoms, breathing issues, swollen lymph nodes, muscle or joint pain, and more. Worse, some of the chemicals regularly used in over-the-counter haircare products are known endocrine disruptors and are linked to cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic issues, and problems in pregnancy. Regular use of these products exposes us bit by bit to chemicals that accumulate.
Adopting a haircare regimen using natural ingredients and herbs empowers us to embrace healthier, sustainable practices and ingredients that prioritize the health and wellbeing of people, plants, and planet. You can incorporate fresh or dried herbs in teas, tinctures, oxymels, herbal honey, etc. for internal use or incorporate the herbs of your choice in shampoos, rinses, hot oil treatments, hair color, and other topical treatments. You can also add essential oils and hydrosols for increased herbal benefits and aromatic support.
We particularly love the following seven “happy hair” herbs!
Horsetail—The high silica content in Equisetum arvense stimulates scalp circulation, which provides extra blood and nutrients for healthy follicles and strong hair. Horsetail is a good choice for all hair types and is especially helpful when the scalp and hair are oily. As well as topical use, horsetail is often consumed as tea; however, if you have kidney disease, speak with your doctor before using horsetail internally.
Lavender—Lavandula angustifolia has been used in hair care for thousands of years. As well as stimulating scalp circulation to support healthy, strong hair, it is effective at soothing occasional scalp conditions, irritation, and dandruff. It is good for all hair types.
Marshmallow Root—The mucilaginous quality of Althaea officinalis coats, moisturizes, and softens hair. It is appropriate for all hair types and is particularly beneficial for dry or brittle hair and unruly, flyaway hair. It is an excellent addition to hair conditioners, detanglers, and serums.
Neem Leaf—Rich in hair-loving minerals, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids, Zadirachta indica has a long association with scalp and hair health. Because it increases circulation, neem is an excellent choice when dealing with an irritated scalp or dandruff, and cleans and strengthens hair follicles for stronger, healthier hair.
Nettle Leaf—Urtica dioica leaves have a high silica and mineral content that supports overall scalp and hair health. Nettle’s natural astringency can also be helpful with occasional scalp irritation. Good for all hair types, it assists in balancing sebum so hair doesn’t become too dry or oily. Nettle leaves are also easy to add to your diet. They can be steeped as nettle tea, incorporated into herbal infusion blends, and added to soups and broths.
Peppermint Leaf—The menthol and menthone compounds in Mentha x piperita stimulate the scalp and increase circulation to give an invigorating boost to healthy follicles and a refreshing, revitalizing quality when added to hair care formulations. Peppermint is an excellent choice for all hair types and is particularly good for oily hair, or to soothe occasional irritation and dandruff.
Rosemary—Rosmarinus officinalis is among the most studied oils for haircare and has long been associated with “happy hair.” It is appropriate for all hair types and is known to stimulate circulation at the scalp and increase hair health and beauty. Rosemary is often found in formulations to support hair growth for those experiencing thinning hair.
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