The outermost layer of hair, known as the cuticle, is made of overlapping scales that protect the inner cortex of the hair shaft. When the cuticle is healthy, these scales lie down flat and reflect the light, which gives the hair a shiny appearance. Conditioners and cream rinses make hair shine by coating the hair shaft and smoothing down the cuticle. Several herbs also have conditioning properties that can help you naturally achieve the same effect.
Horsetail
Horsetail contains large concentrations of silica, an element that promotes strength and adds a natural, glossy sheen to hair. The Holistic Online website recommends shampooing hair with a strong tea made of horsetail to keep your hair looking shiny and sleek. Steep 2 tbsp. dried horsetail in 1/2 cup boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain the herbs from the liquid, and add the tea to 4 oz. unscented baby shampoo. Wash your hair with the mixture as usual, and follow with a gentle cream rinse, if desired. Repeat three to four times a week to promote a healthy, shiny head of hair.
Camellia
Cold-pressing the seeds of "Camellia sasanqua," "Camellia sinensis," "Camellia oleifera" or "Camellia japonica" yields a pale-colored, edible oil known as Camellia oil. Women in tropical areas of the world have used the oil for centuries to promote thick, glossy and shiny hair. In her book "Fast Beauty," Rona Berg recommends warming 1/2 cup of the oil in a saucepan, and working the oil through your hair about once a week to increase shine. Begin massaging the oil into your scalp, and work through to the ends. Leave on for at least 20 minutes, and then shampoo, rinse and condition as usual.
Rosemary
Rosemary keeps dark-colored hair healthy and promotes shine, according to "Natural Healing Wisdom and Know-How" by Amy Rost. Use dried rosemary to make an herbal hair rinse, or put two to three drops of rosemary essential oil onto your hairbrush, and brush through your hair once a day. Essential oils do not make your hair greasy, but add subtle shine and fragrance. Make a rosemary hair rinse by steeping 2 tbsp. dried rosemary in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, and straining out the herbs. Allow the liquid to cool, and pour over your hair after shampooing. Wring out excess, but do not rinse. For the best results, repeat each time you wash your hair.
Chamomile
Chamomile makes light-colored hair shine, and also enhances blond or red highlights. In her book "Spiritual Beauty Care," Jacqueline Sinnige suggests pouring 4 cups hot water over a handful of dried chamomile flowers, or about 1/4 cup, and allowing the mixture to steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain the liquid from the flowers, and let cool to a comfortable temperature. Use the chamomile tea as a final rinse after shampooing to improve your hair's natural gloss and sheen. Do not rinse, and repeat after each wash for the best results.
References
- Holistic Online: Herbs for Hair Loss
- "Milady's Standard Cosmetology"; Arlene Alpert, Milady Publishing Company, Margrit Altenburg; 2002
- "Fast Beauty: 1,000 Quick Fixes"; Rona Berg; 2005
- "Natural Healing Wisdom & Know How"; Amy Rost; 2009
- "Spiritual Beauty Care"; Jacqueline Sinnige; 2000
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