Did you know that shampoos have been considered a luxury product for the longest time? It was only after many years that shampoo began to be commercially available. Until then, people in India solely trusted fruit and leaf extracts for cleansing their hair. The ancient medical system of Ayurveda believes it to be the best way too.
However, the easy availability of shampoos today has its disadvantages too. The main one being the excessive use of chemicals. To achieve quick results, brands put in chemical ingredients that damage the hair and scalp in the long run. Hence, this has steered many people towards the old ways. If you feel the same, it is time you switch to herbal shampoos.
Herbal shampoos are the perfect blend between natural ingredients and modern technology. They are chemical-free and use flower, fruit and leaf extracts for cleansing the hair and scalp. Moreover, many types of herbal shampoos are available today for different hair concerns. So read along and find out the best choice for your hair.
What are Herbal Shampoos?
Herbal shampoos are organic preparations made using traditional ayurvedic herbs. They intend to clean and nourish the hair and scalp thoroughly using natural ingredients. In short, they aim to perform the same job as a regular shampoo minus the harsh chemicals. Many brands have come up with impressive ranges of herbal shampoos. The best part is, there is one for every hair concern.
All of these shampoos are sulphate and paraben-free and only use herbal ingredients. So, they are safe to use for all hair types and cause no damage to them. Already damaged hair can also use herbal shampoos to reverse the effects.
Advantages of Herbal Shampoos
Here are some of the benefits of herbal shampoos that make them stand out.
- Herbal shampoos come with zero side effects. Hence, it is safe to use for all ages and hair types. Also, they are perfect for everyday use.
- The conditioning effect provided by herbs is more beneficial to the hair in the long term.
- The cleansing action of herbal shampoos aims at delivering essential nutrients to the hair. However, they do it gently, without causing your hair to become dry.
- The ingredients used are biodegradable and safe for the environment.
- Unlike chemical shampoos, these are not tested on animals.
- Herbal shampoos are safe for the skin as well. They do not cause reactions or allergies, owing to their organic ingredient list.
Choose Herbal Shampoos Based on Ingredients
The heart of herbal shampoos lies in their ingredients. Knowing their purpose and use can help you make the right choice. Some of the popular herbal ingredients used in shampoos are discussed below.
Shikakai Herbs
Shikakai refers to the pods, leaves, and bark of the Shikakai plant with a low pH value. Herbal shampoos use shikakai to cleanse the hair without removing the natural oils. As a result, it prevents hair dryness and promotes hair growth.
Reetha Herbs
They are an essential foaming ingredient in herbal shampoos. Opt for them for thick and lustrous hair. In addition to the shine, reetha has antibacterial and antifungal effects, which can effectively cure dandruff.
Amla
Amla is an antioxidant herb that is a staple with many herbal shampoos. Choose amlas for a guaranteed increase in hair volume. Also, amla can darken hair pigment naturally, thereby preventing premature greying.
Hibiscus
Only two of the many sub-species of hibiscus are known for their hair benefits: Hibiscus flowers are excellent in controlling hair fall. Many herbal men’s shampoos use hibiscus as the main ingredient. They stimulate dormant hair follicles and help with bald patches.
Neem
Neem leaves are famous for their antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. So, shampoos with neem leaves are best for controlling dandruff and itchy scalp. They also ward off hair lice and keep the scalp clean.
Aloe Vera
As one of the most soothing natural ingredients, aloe vera has unparalleled benefits. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. In herbal shampoo, aloe vera helps to fight itching and inflammation of the scalp. Moreover, it acts as a conditioner for dry and damaged hair.
Cinnamon
For promoting blood circulation to the scalp, cinnamon is the right choice. In addition, many scalp issues like dryness and itchiness are solvable with cinnamon-based herbal shampoos.
Now that you understand herbal ingredients choosing an appropriate herbal shampoo will be an easy job. Make the switch and watch your hair change for the better.
