Tag Archives: Ayurvedic Herbs

DIY Frozen Henna Bars (updated recipe)

Property of Maicurls – Frozen Henna Bars

I am back with an update version of my frozen henna bars. This recipe consists of some new ingredients and some of the old ingredients in my previous recipe.

If you have not used Henna or ayurvedic herbs before, I highly recommend that you research them first, before applying onto you hair! While they are natural and a healthy addition to incorporate into your hair routine (providing strength, shine and so much more, with henna being a great natural way to add a red/reddish orange undertone to the hair) it is always best to be informed. I have a little breakdown of Henna along with some of the other ingredients I use here.

Before I get asked the infamous question of “will it make my hair red”. The answer is yes and no. It totally depends on the colour of your hair before applying henna. If you have black or dark hair, you will notice a subtle red undertone to the hair which is more noticeable under direct sunlight (not really visible indoors). If you have light brown hair, you will notice a reddish brown undertone to your hair and if you are blond, you definitely will get an orange tint to your hair. For grays and white hair, you will get a golden orange/fiery orange tone to your hair. (Ps. there are a variety of henna “species” which means that the type/location to the plant you can get, you can get a verity of dye intensity).

In case you want to tone down that orange tint (for those with gray/white hair) – naturally – Indigo is the way to go. Indigo is used to give a final black tone to the hair. You can either do a two step process of first apply henna followed by Indigo (most optimal for stubborn grays) or you can do a 50/50 combination of mixing henna and Indigo which will give more of a dark brown tone. Amla helps to provide a slightly brownish tone to henna and hibiscus will give it a kick of red. I personally have never tried Indigo myself but you can inform yourself about it along with an really in-depth look about all the herbs here at hennasooq.com

PSA: It is ALWAYS required to do a strand & skin test to make sure you are not allergic to henna or any other herb you use on your hair. I will also stress the fact that natural pure henna (good henna) only comes in one colour: Reddish orange. There is no natural brown henna, black henna or anything else. If you find that it is either one of two scenarios: it’s a blend of henna along with indigo, amla, hibiscus etc. so it will have other ayurvedic herbs mixed together (which is fine as long as it only contains natural herbs). Or it is unnatural “natural henna” which, can be harmful potentially containing harsh chemicals which, can damage the skin & hair. They can cause allergic reactions, burns and even lead to death in some cases (those that experience an allergic shock) so as I mentioned PLEASE make yourself aware of what you are applying.

Now with all that mentioned, here is my updated recipe. I am keeping it simple and effective.

Ingredients & Tools (Makes five 100 gram bars 3.5 oz.) – 500 grams total 17.6 oz.

1.5 cups Henna
1 1/4 cups Rosewater
1/4 cup Ghassoul/Rhassoul
1/4 cup dried Hibiscus petals
1/4 cup dried Rosebuds/ petals (optional)
1/4 cup Amla
1/4 cup fresh Aloe Vera Juice

Bowls
Sieve
Spatula
Pot
Gloves
Lining (to protect worksurface)
Silicone molds (any container)
Clingfilm
Airtight container

Additional/Optional:

Instead of pure Rosewater you can either do a combination of water & Rosewater or just stick to plain water. The Rosebuds are not a requirement but I love adding Rosebuds for the additional Rose benefits. Hibiscus is the acidic element for dye release (along with the Amla powder which, is also acidic) but you can use Hibiscus tea or any other tea. You can add other ayurvedic herbs to the paste, I’ve just been keeping it simple.

Method:

I add the Rosebuds and Hibiscus petals to the Rosewater which I heat up (I do not boil the water) and allow the petals to seep. I combine and mix all the powders together so that everything is well combined before adding the liquids. I pour the Rosewater through a sieve first and then pour the Aloe Vera Juice to the powders. (Slowly) add the Rosewater to the powders and mix. Once everything is well combined, cover the paste with clingfilm and allow for dye release to start. (Everyone’s henna starts releasing dye depending on the type of henna you have, for me, right before 5 hours is when it starts to kick in for my henna). Transfer the paste into molds, cover each mold with clingfilm and freeze. Once the bars freeze transfer into an airtight container and wrap each bar with clingfilm to preserve them.

Additional information:

I will mention that I like the henna paste to be thick because when I “melt” them for use, I put the bars in a bowl with a little heated up hibiscus rosewater which, will help to melt down the bars. I prefer not making the bars too runny prior to freezing because frozen henna bars tend to be a little more runny after they have thawed anyways. But that is totally a personal choice, so if you prefer to start off with a runnier paste all you have to do is add more liquid to the recipe.

You can store the bars in the freezer for up to 4 months (some say 6) but I tend to use them up before 2 months and just remake fresh batches. (I use 2 – 3 at a time).

Would love to hear what you think if you give these a try!

Maicurls

Regrowz 100% Natural Homeopathic Scalp and Stimulation and Restoration Serum

SCALP STIMULANT

Image Sourced from: https://regrowz.com

The Regrowz Scalp Stimulant is developed to help open the pores (in areas where you have experienced hair loss) and is the first step to preparing the scalp to receive the Restoration Serum (step 2). The comb attachment acts as a deep exfoliant, cleansing the scalp of the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which is contained within the natural oil produced by the scalp (sebum). It should be left on the scalp for a 30 minute period before applying the Restoration Serum (without rinsing it).

RESTORATION SERUM

Image sourced from:https://regrowz.com/

Similar to the Scalp Stimulant, the serum should be focused on the scalp itself and massaged for 1 minute and then left on for a minimum of 60 minutes to overnight (by covering the hair with a shower cap/plastic bag in order to avoid staining). It is said to have been effective in 100% of those that have used the serum and clinical studies of those that participated reported a 39.41% reduction in total hair loss with up to 44.90% individual reduction for some.

After 60 minutes – overnight the products needs to be washed out of the hair with shampoo. This system is most effective when used frequently (every other day is best).

I was given a discount code: 10caregrowz46 that can be used upon checkout on Regrows.

I plan on monitoring my progress in my crown and back of head area since my crown seems to grow the slowest and the hair on the back of my neck experiences more tension/friction while wearing my hair down, using a scarf or putting it up in a ponytail. I shall be using Regrowz for 3 months and will do a 1.5 month update as well as after 3 months.

DIY Henna Spray For Strength

3 Replies

Hello Maicurlies,

I am back with yet another DIY! Yes you read that right, a DIY Henna Spray!
This one is actually inspired by another Naturalista that has her on stash of DIY Goodies Curly Proverbz. She is GAAAWGEOUS btw! If you haven’t been following her you NEED TO!

So first off, Thank you Curly Proverbz for the inspiration!!!!

I modified her original recipe so it would fit my hair needs and I recommend you alter any ingredients you feel will not benefit your hair to fit your own needs too! (I have alternative suggestions a little lower down).

Henna Spray

Prior to you attempting to use Henna, Amla, Shikakai or any other Ayurvedic, herbs I HIGHLY SUGGEST that you do some research prior to application just so you are well informed about the ingredients & their benefits/disadvantages. I have a henna blog post where I also mention Shikakai and Amla in there since I regularly use them in my hair care.

Even if you know nothing about henna, amla, shikaikai and decide not to research (bad idea btw) PLEASE NOTE:

Ayurvedic, herbs can be drying on the hair therefore it is highly recommended that you thoroughly moisturize prior to/after using the spray.
Do not overdo the applications, it will cause your hair to feel dry and brittle due to the strength the herbs provide to the hair (lack of elasticity = breakage).
You might notice a colour change in your hair e.g. reddish/brown (henna & amla) therefore if you are not looking for this, DO NOT USE this recipe.
Use clothes & a towel you do not mind getting stained while spraying your hair!

Ingredients/Tools Use:

0.1oz Amla
0.1oz Shikakai
0.25oz Henna
4oz Water
4oz Rose Water
0.15oz Argan Oil
2-3 drops Alcohol Free Rose Fragrance
Coffee Filter (or cheese cloth)
Cup
Spoon
Spray Bottle
Gloves (optional)

Optional Ingredients/Ratios:

You can replace the Amla and Shikakai with any other Ayurvedic, herb such as Bhringaraj, Neem, Brahmi etc. In case you do not have Rose Water the amount can be replaced with more plain water. You can add some glycerin to the spray for added moisture (if necessary/desired). The fragrance oil can be replaced with Essential Oil.

Mixing Instructions:

You want to put your herbs into a coffee filter or cheese cloth and let it soak in boiled water. I add rose water (without boiling it) and let the herbs sit overnight. The following morning I take out the herbs, add the oil and fragrance oil, pour into my spray bottle and presto!

Application:

My two ways of application is: 1. after deep conditioning my hair (prior to moisturizing) I will spray the henna onto my hair and proceed with moisturizing and styling. 2. On occasion if I feel like I need to provide strength to my hair mid-week, I first spray a little henna onto my hair and then remoisturize. You can also do this as a rinse, without leaving the henna on your hair (which is what I do).

Storage:

You must store the mix in your fridge (otherwise you plan on growing nasty mold!)

Thanks!

Maicurls

DIY Conditioning Bars with Cleansing Properties

10 Replies

Hello Maicurlies,

It has been a while (a little over a month) since I last shared a DIY and over the last few weeks I have been asked “when will you share a DIY again”, you request and I shall deliver 😉

DIY Conditioning Bar With Cleansing Properties

My “DIY Conditioning Bar with Cleansing Properties” is a mix that my hair LOVES! As the name indicates it helps to condition my hair while leaving my curls feeling clean (thanks to cleansing properties) but it does not result in dry or stripped clean hair thanks to the conditioning elements!

Ingredients/Tools:

DIY Conditioning Bar With Cleansing Properties - Ingredients

1.1 oz Amla
1.5 oz Shikakai
0.7 oz Water
3 oz Unrefined Cocoa Butter (I got mine from SheaButter Cottage)
0.7 oz Virgin Coconut Oil
3 Capsules Vitamin E Oil (roughly 0.15 oz)
2 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (optional) – use any Essential Oil you like*
0.2 oz Glycerin (optional)**
Pot & Bowl for double broiler
Spoon
Container
Silicon Moulds & Cling Film (if you choose to make blocks)

Note: *If you are pregnant please do not use any Essential oil. Essential Oil needs to be sufficiently diluted & certain oils have more “strength”. ** If you hair does not like Glycerin skip this ingredient (see Alternative Suggestions for other options).

Mixing Method:

I first combine the dry ingredients (powders) together and mix them well. I then add the water and stir before adding the butter and remaining ingredients. When I add the butter and oils etc it is done step-by-step (do not pour everything in one go since you want to make sure you are not adding more than you want and to make sure everything is mixed well).

Storage/Setting:

If you are going to use this right after making the mix, then skip this step and move onto “Adding Your Mixing Liquid” (below). If you are making blocks, pour into silicon molds which will be covered with cling film in order for them to set (Once set, I store mine in a sandwich bag for future use).

Adding Your Mixing Liquid:

Bars in double broiler

Melting bars

Depending on your preference you can basically add any liquid of choice (e.g. Flax Seed Water, Tea, Water, Coconut Milk, Coconut Cream). First gently double broil the blocks (do not completely melt them down) you just want them to melt a little since you will be adding warm mixing liquid which will completely melt down the bars. My mixing liquid of choice is Flax Seed Water. I literally let the seeds (2 oz) just reach a gentle rolling boil in plain water (8.8 oz) for no more than 5 minutes on low heat. I immediately sieve the seeds (which I store for reuse) and pour the Flax Seed Water to my semi melted blocks and stir stir stir.

Application:

Melted Conditioning Bars

Once the Flax Seed Water has been added it turns into this lovely consistency and I highly recommend applying on lightly damp hair (best on detangled hair to avoid tangles and to allow for easy application). I cover my hair with a shower cap and scarf for a minimum of 20 – 30 minutes and then rinse it out with a dab of conditioner (the conditioner is optional but I prefer using it to make sure I don’t have any “bits” in my hair).

Ingredient Benefits:

Amla – holds conditioning properties, provides shine, strengthens the hair, helps slow down early on set greying/darkens the hair (subtly), helps keep a clean & healthy Scalp.
Shikakai – helps to cleanse the hair & scalp.
Water – best moisturizing ingredient.
Unrefined Cocoa Butter – helps moisturize the hair, reduces hair loss, reduces breakage & alleviates scalp itching and irritations.
Virgin Coconut Oil – provides shine and strength, penetrates into the hair shaft to strengthen from within, soothes an irritated scalp & helps elimate frizz.
Vitamin E Oil – helps extend homemade products shelf life, rejuvenates and offers protection for the scalp & hair.
Peppermint Essential Oil – helps to stimulate blood flow to the scalp which results in hair growth, soothes an irritated scalp, cleanses the scalp & also helps extend the shelf life of homemade products.
Glycerin – a humectant that attracts water in the air (humidity) to the area applied.

Alternative Ingredients:

Unrefined Cocoa Butter – can be replaced with any other butter of choice e.g. Shea Butter, Mango Butter or a combination.
Virgin Coconut Oil – can be replaced with any carrier oil of choice.
Glycerin – can be replaced with Honey or Agave Nectar (if you hair likes Humectants).
Shikakai – can be replaced with Aritha (soap nut) which has even more cleansing abilities.
Water – can be used together with Rose Water e.g 0.35 oz Water & 0.35 oz Rose Water.
Peppermint Essential Oil – you can replace this with any oil of choice or omit it completely.

When To Use:

There is no “time frame” for this, you can use it whenever you like. I do suggest that if your hair is in need of a little TLC and you want to switch between deep conditioning you can use this in place of a Deep Conditioner from time to time.

I would love to hear what you think! If you use this recipe or change a few things please let me know, I would love to hear from you!

Thanks

Maicurls

Updated Full Strength Henna Paste and How To Make Henna (Ice) Blocks

7 Replies

Hey Maicurlies,

Today I’ve got another DIY and this also sort of ties in with my recent re-addiction to all things henna 😀

I first want to share my updated henna paste (full strength henna) which focuses only on ayurvedic herbs – Henna, Amla and Hibiscus mixed with Green Tea.

This mix is somewhat similar to my “old” henna paste which you can read about (here) except that I now add hibiscus. I have already written about the wonders of hibiscus here p.s. it is awesome for a number of different reasons! Another aspect that is different is that I keep my henna paste “clean” by not adding anything additional e.g. conditioner, coconut milk etc after I see dye release. There is no harm in adding conditioner/coconut milk/oil etc to the paste, they actually help to make your hair feel less dry after you rinse out the henna however, at the moment I am more focused on the ayurvedic benefits which is why I opt not to add anything to the mix.

(I turn to my DIY Henna Gloss Bars on days when I want to henna without the punch that is packed in my full strength henna paste).

Henna Paste

Ingredients/Tools:

Henna 5 oz
Amla 0.7 oz
Hibiscus 1.2 oz
Green Tea 6 oz
Glass Bowl
Spatula
Old material/newspaper to cover the work space

Mixing:

I first combine all the dry ingredients and then add my warm green tea (not boiling hot – I let it cool down first) and stir. I like making my paste quite thick because I don’t like the henna to drip down my face/neck.

After mixing I will cover the paste with Clingfilm and wait for dye release. When I start to see dye release I add a tiny bit of lukewarm tea (no more than 1.5 oz) just so the paste isn’t too thick and will spread easily on my hair. It usually takes my henna no more than 4 hours to see the initial stages of dye release and I like to apply it when I start to see dye release since I leave the henna on overnight and the dye will continue to release while I sleep.

Application:

I always apply henna on damp detangled and cleansed hair, starting at the back working my way to the front. I cover my hair with Clingfilm, a shower cap, sometimes a plastic bag and then a scarf to make sure everything is really nice and warm. ALWAYS USE GLOVES otherwise your palms and nails will get stained! After I have left the henna on overnight I rinse out the henna with water first, follow up with rinses with conditioner and then I apply a Moisturizing Deep Conditioner (DC) once the water runs clear. I leave the DC on for no less than 2 hours and then I am done!

Henna (Ice) Blocks

Frozen Henna (Ice) Blocks

What I now love doing is turning my henna paste into henna (Ice) Blocks. I like making the blocks because:

I mix up quite a bit of henna and store it in my freezer waiting for it to be used. This makes it less time consuming in the long run since everything is ready and just needs to be melted.
Whenever I have henna in my freezer, the red dye is much more intense compared to when I just use my paste after dye release.

Ingredients/Tools:

Henna Paste (recipe above)
Silicone moulds
Spatula
Clingfilm
Sandwich bag
Old material/newspaper to cover the work space

Making the bars:

Henna (Ice) Blocks before freezing them

After making the henna paste I simply pour the paste into silicone molds, cover with Clingfilm and then place them in my freezer. (If you do not have silicone molds you can use ice cube trays but I would keep the moulds and ice cube trays separate from those you use to make normal ice blocks, bake etc. I keep everything I use for my hair separate from other tools in my kitchen).

Clingfilm covered henna (Ice) Blocks

I recommend letting the bars freeze for no less than 12 hours ideally letting them sit in the freezer for longer because the longer you let them sit the more intense the red dye! Once the bars have frozen I cover each bar with Clingfilm and store them in a sandwich bag until they are needed. I have left mine in the freezer for 2 months and still got great dye release and conditioning benefits. (You might get away with more storage time but I have not tried).

Melting the bars:

Melting Frozen Henna (Ice) Blocks

Heatproof bowl
A little water
Spatula
Henna Bars
Green tea (no more than 2 oz)
Gloves
Old Piece of cloth/newspaper to cover the work space

Put a pot on the stove with a little bit of water. Place the bars in the heatproof bowl and put the bowl over the pot. Allow the bars to slowly melt down on low heat for 7 – 10 minutes while stirring. Once the bars have melted I tend to add a little bit of lukewarm tea (no more than 2 oz) just to make sure the paste is neither too thick/thin. I apply & rinse as normal (see above) and that is it!

I have a video of the whole process:

Would love to hear what you think!

Thanks

Maicurls

Henna Glosses

3 Replies

Hey Maicurlies,

I will occasionally do Henna Glosses whenever I remember (I should do them more often because they are awesome!) I tend to do Henna/Amla DC’s but will do a henna gloss when I do not have time to do a full strength henna DC or when I am running low on henna. I have already written about the benefits of Henna and made a video explaining how and why I use it.

Benefits of henna glosses (Glosses are not as “strong” as a full strength henna treatment but it:

Gives shine to the hair.
Strengthens the hair from root to tip.
Provides a slight tint – (depends on the length of time you leave it on, how much you dilute the henna and how strong your henna is).
Can help fight dandruff and scalp irritations (check with your dermatologist first).
Leaves the hair feeling less dry/rough versus a full strength henna treatments.
Requires less time (the time you leave it on your hair).
Rinses out easier.
Requires less henna (due to the additional ingredients you add).
Can be used as a “touch up” to a full strength henna treatment.

What can I add to my Henna mix to make it a “gloss”:

The simple answer is anything, but popular additions are:

coconut milk
coconut cream
conditioner (preferable protein free)

You might also add

honey/agave nectar
oils

How to make a Henna gloss:

Again, the options are endless. My personal opinion is that even though a henna gloss is supposed to be “diluted” I still want to be able to get its benefits. It is the lawson or Lawsonia inermis (red/orange dye) that provides the benefits therefore, I choose use a mix that has dye release versus applying the paste right after mixing (before dye release).

For my henna glosses I actually use a paste that has already been mixed (from the last time I applied henna) and is stored in my freezer. The intensity of red dye is incredible when I use henna that has been frozen. I let the henna defrost (naturally no heat) and then add my ingredients. If I do not have any mixed, I make my full strength paste, cover it and wait for dye release (I get due release after no less than 4 hours based on my henna powder). I use 50% henna paste and will then add 50% coconut cream or conditioner, a tiny dab of honey, a little oil and apply it to damp hair.

I let the henna gloss sit on my hair for 1 hour and then rinse, rinse, rinse. Due to the fact that I add other ingredients, it makes the rinsing much easier and my hair does not feel dry. I do follow up with a Moisturizing DC afterwards just to make sure and that is it!

Do you use henna glosses? If so, what is your mix?

Thanks

Maicurls

Aritha Review Video Up on YouTube

Shikakai Review Video Up on YouTube

Aritha– Ayurvedic all Natural Shampoo (Option 2)

4 Replies

Hi Maicurlies,

As promised, today I will cover part 2 of my all natural Auyvedic shampoo experiments. In my previous review (part 1) I wrote about Shikakai powder and today I will be covering Aritha powder.

Similar to Shikakai, Aritha predominetly comes from Asia – mainly in India and is derived from a fruit. It is most commonly known as soapnut or Sapindus Trifoliatus.

In Asia Aritha is popular alternative to commercial shampoo due to the fact that it does not contain unnatural elements and harsh chemicals.

Aritha – Hesh

The brand of Aritha I used is Hesh and apart from being a natural shampoo, Aritha has a number of different uses. For one it can be used for the skin:

Cleanses the pores
Helps the skin breath better
Improves the texture of skin (with frequent use)

I have used it for my skin and it did a really good job of cleaning, clearing up my pores as well as helping fight my oily T-zone. I would suggest this for those who have oily skin as apposed to dry skin because it can cause more dryness.

According to the box, it is also said to be an effective agent to wash silk, wool clothes, silver and gold ornaments and utensils. I did not try this personally

Now for the shampoo part. The box says it:

Completely cleans the hair
Works an efficient natural shampoo
Best for extremely oily (dirty) hair
Gives the hair natural gloss and bounce
Cleans dirt accumulated on the scalp

To use Aritha you do not need any additional ingredients apart from water however, I know some people might add a little oil to the mix. Note: Aritha will have a moderate lather (it lathers more than Shikakai). BTW it has a fruit/spice smell to it…I do not particularly mind it but those with a sensitive sense of smell will pick up on its scent!

Box application instructions:

1. Take required quantity of powder, add a little water and mix to make a thick past. 2. Gently massage (scalp) using your fingertips. 3. Wait for 2 – 5 minute and 4. wash thoroughly with water.

Aritha Powder

My experiments: I tried two different methods

1. Box method – 5 tablespoons of Aritha and 8 tablespoons of water. It made a really thick paste and I applied it to my damp scalp as instructed. I carefully and slowly massaged my scalp for a few minutes while in the shower, left it on for 5 minutes and then rinsed it off with lukewarm water. While I was rinsing it off I would glide my hands down the length of my hair so that there would be some contact but I did not concentrate on the length of my hair.

Pros- My scalp felt really really clean. I had no buildup what so ever and even though it had limited contact with the length of my hair it still felt really clean.

Con – My hair felt drrrryyyyy afterwards! It took a couple of rinses till I felt like I got all the mix off my scalp and hair. The mix did what it was suppose to (cleaned my hair and scalp) but maybe a little too effectively in terms of stripping my hair of its natural oils. I needed an intesne moisturizing DC afterwards.

2. Second Method – Due to my previous experience (really dry hair) I prepped by doing a hot oil treatment for 30 minutes before applying the Aritha. I used less powder and a lot more water (3 tablespoons Aritha and 3/4 cup of water). I put the mixture in an old (clean) squeeze container and liberally squirted the mixture over my scalp. (Do not get it in your eyes it will burn and feel uncomfortable!) Since it was a lot more liquid-based, the mixture ran down my hair as well. I gently massaged just my scalp and let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing it out with lukewarm water.

Pros – Again my scalp felt and looked really clean as did the length of my hair.

Cons – My hair still felt dry afterwards even though I “prepoo’d” for 30 minutes. Also because it was very watery the mix did run down my hair a couple of times while I was massaging my scalp.

Verdict

Would I buy this again? Yes BUT only to use for my face not to use it on my hair. I prefer Shikakai as a natural shampoo because it did not leave my hair as dry but did a good job of cleaning my hair. I can not say this is a “bad” product because it did what it supposed to do (cleans the scalp) and also dried the length of my hair from the limited contact it had. I think perhaps those with more product build up or an oily scalp might find this a little less harsh? I just know that I would use it again for my face but not my scalp.

P.S. I was not asked/paid or compensated to mention the company or brand. The product was bought with my own money and the review was based on my own personal experience. This review was based on my own personal experiences and should you choose to use Aritha I would suggest you do your research and then do a patch test before applying the product on your scalp to see if you are allergic to it or not.

Have you tried Aritha as a shampoo? If so, what did you think? If not, do you use any other Auyvedic powder as a natural shampoo? Let me know!

Maicurls

Shikakai – Ayurvedic all Natural Shampoo (Option 1)

5 Replies

Hi Maicurlies,

I hope all is well!

Today I am coming to you with another Auyvedic product (yes I know) and as the title states, it can be used as a substitute for commercial Shampoo! Shikakai powder (which means “fruit for hair”) is predominantly found in Asia – most noticeably India and is derived from fruit pods of the Acacia Concinna tree.

In Asia it is a popular alternative to shampoos which can contain harsh chemicals. Many of us natural curlies tend to stay away from shampoos that are not sulfate free due to the fact that shampoo can really dry out our hair. In some cases even sulfate free shampoos can sometimes dry out our hair (not all and not for everyone.)

Shikakai – Hesh

The brand of Shikakai I used is Hesh and the box states it:

Acts as a natural astringent for hair
Clears dandruff
Cleans dirt accumulated on the scalp
Conditions the hair
Strengthens hair roots
Promotes luxuriant growth
Acts as a coolant for the scalp

To use Shikakai you do not need any additional ingredients apart from water however, I know some people might add a little oil to the mix. Note: Shikakai only lathers up moderately.

Box application instructions:

1. Take required quantity of powder, add a little water and mix to make a thick past. 2. Gently massage (scalp) using your fingertips. 3. Wait for 2 – 5 minute and 4. wash thoroughly with water.

Shikakai Powder

My experiments: I tried two different methods

1. Box method – 6 tablespoons of Shikakai and 8 tablespoons of water. It made a really thick paste and I applied it to my damp scalp as instructed. I carefully and slowly massaged my scalp for a few minutes while in the shower, left it on for 5 minutes and then rinsed it off with lukewarm water. While I was rinsing it off I would glide my hands down the length of my hair so that there would be some contact but it was not concentrated.

Pros- My scalp felt and looked really clean! I had no buildup at all and although I only really concentrated on my scalp the length of my hair also felt clean. I did not get that “squeaky clean” feeling which normally happened when I used shampoo but it definitely removed buildup and oil.

Con – My hair felt a little more dry afterwards and less “conditioned” and it took a couple of rinses till I felt like I got all the mix off my scalp and hair. I knew I needed a DC after rinsing it out because even while my hair was damp it felt a little dry. Using a “paste” was a little too thick/heavy to be massaged into my scalp.

2. Second Method – I prepped my hair by doing a hot oil treatment for 30 minutes before applying the Shikakai. I used less powder and a lot more water (3 tablespoons Shikakai and 3/4 cup of water). I put the mixture in an old (clean) squeeze container and liberally squirted the mixture over my scalp. (Do not get it in your eyes it will burn and feel uncomfortable!) Since it was a lot more liquid-based, the mixture ran down my hair as well. I gently massaged just my scalp and let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing it out with lukewarm water.

Pros – Again my scalp felt and looked really clean as did the length of my hair. No buildup, no squeaky clean feeling and my hair did not feel overly dry. I think because I used more water, less powder and did a hot oil treatment beforehand I was happier with how my hair felt. Nevertheless I did follow up with a DC just for precaution.

Cons – It was a little difficult keep the mix on my scalp since it was very watery (it helps to apply this while in the shower.) Apart from that I cannot complain.

*UPDATE: I forgot to mention the scent of Shikakai. It does not have the most pleasant scent. I guess I would describe it as having a strong herbish smell. I really can not point my finger on anything to compare it to but it does have an “earthish-herbish” smell with a hint of spice (sorry that probably doesn’t help.) After the rinses the scent dissipated a little and with the DC that followed I did not notice it anymore.

Verdict

Would I buy this again? Yes, but I would use my second method because my hair felt better with that method.

Aritha powder is going to be my next experiment as a natural alternative to commercial shampoo and I will let you know how that goes in (part 2)

P.S. I was not asked/paid or compensated to mention the company or brand. The product was bought with my own money and the review was based on my own personal experience.

Have you tried Shikakai as a shampoo? If so, what did you think? If not, do you use any other Auyvedic powder as a natural shampoo? Let me know!

Maicurls