Herbs in hair care

Recently I posted a herbal hair rinse recipe which I make to prevent my hair from tangling (http://plainandpure.blogspot.com/2013/08/herbal-hair-rinse.html). Today I thought I would share a bit of my knowledge and experience with herbs in hair care:

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) 

The horsetail herb is known to strengthen hair, reduce grey hairs and restore shine. This is due to the high amount of silica that it contains. As it stimulates blood vessels in the scalp it promotes hair growth. It reduces problems with dry/oily scalp. 

Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis)

Rosemary promotes hair growth and adds shine. It is known to fight dandruff. A rosemary hair rinse should be used by people with dark hair.

Nettle (Urtica diocia) 

Nettle is used to prevent hair thinning and hair loss. It blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT (excessive DHT contributes to hair loss). Additionally nettle is known to make hair soft and shiny. It is used to fight dandruff and oily hair. 

Burdock root (Arctium lappa)

Burdock is used to promote hair growth and strengthen hair. It contains silica and phytosterols, which decrease breakage and scalp irritations. It is a great herb for detangling hair.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 

Basil is known to improve scalp circulation and promote hair growth. It is an important ingredient in stimulating hair growth hair rinses. 

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum)

Flaxseed is very rich in mucilage which provides slip and works great as a hair detangler. It is a personal favorite of mine and I use it both in my detangling hair rinse as well as one of the main ingredients in my homemade shampoo. It conditions and moisturizes hair. Additionally it is known to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss. 

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) 

Marshmallow is another great hair detangling herb. Like burdock root and flaxseed it contains mucilage, which not only helps to detangle hair, but also conditions and moisturizes. 

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

Chamomile is mostly known for adding highlights to blond hair. It is also a good herb to chose for soothing scalp issues. In my opinion rinsing hair with chamomile tea makes it very soft. 

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Hibiscus flowers help detangle hair and can be used to obtain red highlights. Hibiscus, when added to a herbal rinse, gives it a nice red color. It is also used to prevent hair loss.

Lavender (Lavendula officinalis)

Due to its anti bacterial and anti fungal properties it is used for scalp conditions. It is also used to fight dry/oily scalp as well as to prevent hair loss. 

Most of these herbs can be applied to the hair and scalp in the form or a hair rinse or oil. To create a herbal oil place fresh or dried herbs in a jar and fill with olive oil. Seal and place the jar in a cool, dark spot for 2-3 weeks. Apply this oil to hair and massage into scalp. A herbal infusion or herbal essential oil can also be added to your everyday shampoo. Personally I chose to use herbal rinses most often.