Herbal shampoos contain essential oils that can promote hair growth and help premature balding and thinning hair. If you can't find a commercial shampoo that uses the herb you need, you can make your own by mixing 9 ozs. of distilled water with 3 ozs. castile soap, 1/4 tsp. jojoba oil and 25 to 30 drops of the essential oil of your choice. Examples of essential oils that promote the growth of hair are basil, peppermint and rosemary, according to the book "Family Herbal--A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality" by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar.
Basil Shampoo
Basil, also known botanically as Ocimum basilicum, is member of the Lamiaceae or mint family. When added to shampoo formulas, basil essential oil will help stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which will promote hair growth, according to the website Aromatherapy at Home. It is also an antimicrobial agent that will help treat dandruff and flaky scalp and will reduce oiliness that can cause fungal infections. When applying your basil shampoo, massage it into your scalp in circular motions and let it permeate your entire head for at least five minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
Peppermint Shampoo
Peppermint, also known botanically as Mentha pipperita, is a popular ingredient for hair growth shampoo formulas. Another member of the mint family, peppermint essential oil also increases the blood flowing to your scalp, which stimulates the hair follicles to grow hair faster. It will also promote the natural oils from your scalp to give your hair a moisturizing coating that will make your hair stronger and less susceptible to dryness, according to acupuncturist David Crow in his book "The Pharmacy of Flowers."
Rosemary Shampoo
Rosemary is known botanically as Rosmarinus officinalis and is a third member of the Lamiaceae family which when used as an essential oil in shampoos will help promote hair growth. Folk medicine tradition uses it as a remedy for premature baldness, says Crow and it will strengthen the hair shaft as it stimulates circulation, making your hair look thicker and healthier.
Sage Shampoo
A fourth member of the mint family, sage, also known botanically as Salvia officinalis, is used as a stimulant for growing hair in shampoo formulas. According to the website Ananda Apothecary, the essential oil shares the same qualities of rosemary essential oil and is useful in balancing the amount of oil in the scalp. Its use is contraindicated during pregnancy and for young children.
References
- "Family Herbal-A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- "The Pharmacy of Flowers"; David Crowe; 2005
- Aromatherapy at Home: Do Essential Oils Grow Hair
- The Ananda Apothecary: Essential Oils for Healthy Hair Growth and Preventing Hair Loss
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