Shopping for shampoo generally leaves you with two choices: select an economical brand with a long ingredient list of toxic chemicals and carcinogens or go with an expensive organic version that claims to be healthier for you. A brief glance at the labels reveals that many of these "green" shampoos also contain dangerous ingredients. Dandruff shampoos pose additional problems, with their common use of coal tar. While legal in the United States, the European Union has banned this suspected human carcinogen since 2004. Annie Berthold-Bond, a writer for Mother Earth News, suggests making your own shampoo. Once you have made your oil base, you simply add water to create your own truly chemical free and affordable shampoo.
Step 1
Measure 1 to 2 oz. of liquid castile soap. Pour it into a container with a lid.
Step 2
Choose to use olive oil or almond oil. Olive oil is less expensive and readily available. Almond oil is more expensive but smells sweet and fragrant. Carefully pour your oil into a 1/4-tsp. measuring spoon. Add the oil to the container with the castile soap.
Step 3
Add essential oils for their healing properties or their pleasant fragrance. Some options include rosemary oil, geranium oil and citrus oil. Berthold-Bond warns that you should not add any more than 3 drops per ounce of shampoo base. Include up to 10 drops of tea tree oil to make a base for a dandruff shampoo.
Step 4
Tightly close the lid on your container. Shake the container to thoroughly blend all the ingredients.
Tips and Warnings
- Mix your base with 10 oz. of water to make 1 1/2 cups of shampoo.
- Do not get the shampoo in your eyes, as essential oils can harm your eyes. Oils eventually turn rancid, so make new oil base periodically.
Things You'll Need
- 1 to 2 oz. liquid castile soap
- Measuring cup
- Container with a lid
- 1/4 tsp. mild oil, such as olive or almond oil
- Measuring spoons
- Essential oils (optional)
- Tea tree oil (optional)
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