Most commercial shampoos contain sodium lauryl sulfate or laureth sulfate, which strip the natural oils from the hair, according to Organic Body Care Recipes. Commercial shampoo may also contain heavy chemicals that cause buildup and hair damage over time. Keep your hair naturally fresh, avoid harmful toxins and take advantage of the healing power of herbs by making this organic shampoo. Calendula will give your hair body and luster. Chamomile soothes the scalp, while rosemary prevents dandruff. Lavender essential oil adds a calming pleasant scent, and jojoba or coconut oil provide natural conditioning.
Step 1
Boil the water in a saucepan. Remove from heat and add the chamomile, yarrow or stinging nettle, calendula and rosemary. Let stand for 30 minutes.
Step 2
Pour the infusion through the strainer into a large glass or ceramic mixing bowl. Discard the herbs.
Step 3
Add jojoba or coconut oil, lavender essential oil and castile soap, and stir with the wire whisk until thoroughly mixed.
Step 4
Pour the shampoo into your storage containers. Keep out enough to use for one week and store the rest in the refrigerator for up to four weeks.
Step 5
Wash your hair. Use about 1 tbsp. of shampoo per wash for shoulder-length hair. Rinse out with cool water to achieve smoother shinier hair.
Tips and Warnings
- For oily hair, omit the jojoba or coconut oil. The shampoo cleans gently and will not create a lot of suds like commercial shampoos. Follow with an organic conditioner.
- Omit the rosemary if you are pregnant. Rosemary should not be used medicinally during pregnancy.
Things You'll Need
- 2 cups distilled water
- 1 tbsp. chamomile
- 1 tbsp. rosemary (omit if you are pregnant)
- 1 tbsp. yarrow for oily hair or 1tbs. stinging nettle for dry hair
- 1 tbsp. calendula
- 25 drops lavender essential oil
- 1/2 tsp. jojoba or coconut oil
- 1/2 cup unscented liquid castile soap
- Saucepan
- Strainer
- Wire whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Storage container with a tight-fitting lid
References
- "Organic Body Care Recipes"; Tourles, Stephanie; 2007
- "The Complete Book of Herbs"; Bremness, Lesley; 1988
