Who Else Is An Ayurvedic Lady or Person?

[IntoMyhair]

not even close to an expert but my starter products are
Powders:
shikakai, amla, neem, aritha, brahmi and multani(only for my face)
Oils:
jasmine, amla, coconut, brahmi amla, shikakai and vatika
I bought my oils and powders from amazon

 

[imstush]

me and I love it! I gave away all of my shampoos to my bff. I only use Shikakai oil or Shikakai and Brahmi (mixed together) powder to wash my hair and then I use a conditioner afterwards. The only time I will use shampoo is when I go to the dominicans (once in a blue moon) and that will strictly be with Aveda. If I need to clarify I do so with baking soda and water. My hair is noticeably stronger and softer!!!!!!!!

ETA: I also use coconut oil to do my oil rinses or to just massage into my hair at night to keep moisturized. But to be honest I've noticed I don't need to do so many co-washes like before because my hair is retaining moisture.

 

[Wildchild453]

I'm getting there I guess.

I use amla oil for prepoo, shikakai and aritha for washing and coconut milk for DC.

 

[mscocoface]

Question for the ayurvedic experts...

Do you think if a tea made from shikakai, amla, bhringraj and aritha powders would benefit me if I mixed it in my conditioner for daily co-washing?

TIA!

That where I place my tea mixtures everytime I make some. I get a bottle of suave or another cheapie and mix the tea with it. The color is gross but I love the mix.

 

[mscocoface]

Can everyone who purchase their products on line Henna included, please post where you get your items.

Here are mine.

http://www.hennasooq.com

http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com

http://www.mehndiskinart.com/hair_henna_dye.htm.

This should help the ladies who are looking for product that may not be able to find it in their neighborhoods.

Here is a website to find local Indian grocers in your neighborhood. I think there is one for our London Ladies also, if someone could post that it would be great. Thanks.

http://www.thokalath.com/grocery/index.php

Here is a site that shows what she recommends for quality powders and I must agree with her. These are some of the best places online for powders.

http://www.hennaforhair.com/suppliers/

 

[BeaLady]

I tried to use shikakai and used much too much. My bathroom drain is a little slow now and I had to rinse for a long time.

How much powder do you use to make the paste? Do you apply the paste throughout your hair along with the scalp?

Is henna considered an Ayurvedic product?

 

[audacity.]

That where I place my tea mixtures everytime I make some. I get a bottle of suave or another cheapie and mix the tea with it. The color is gross but I love the mix.

Thanks for answering!

Great thread!!!

 

[growinstrong]

has anyone done a pre-poo with vatika and an oil rinse with amla oil ?

How did it work for you because I'm thinking of trying this out this weekend. I plan on washing and conditioning with Aveda Brilliant poo and conditioner. Does this sound ok or should I stick with a whole Ayurvedic regimen? I'm just trying to use what I have already at home before going out and buying more stuff

 

[Lioness]

I'm loving my new ayurvedic lifestyle. i'm tryin 2 ween away from keracare now, which will be hard! i may just keep them, they are good to me!

I don't blame you! The Indian Powders are more or less 100% natural.... and a lot cheaper!

Hopefully one day my hair care shelf will be 99% natural products.

PS Your hair looks amazing in your siggy. I may have to try me some Shikkakai (sp?) washing

 

[mscocoface]

has anyone done a pre-poo with vatika and an oil rinse with amla oil ?

How did it work for you because I'm thinking of trying this out this weekend. I plan on washing and conditioning with Aveda Brilliant poo and conditioner. Does this sound ok or should I stick with a whole Ayurvedic regimen? I'm just trying to use what I have already at home before going out and buying more stuff

You should not have a problem with mixing these. I have mixed shampoo and conditioners in the past with the ayurvedics and have had not issue. you are using oils so there should be no problem.

 

[growinstrong]

thanks, I appreciate the response

You should not have a problem with mixing these. I have mixed shampoo and conditioners in the past with the ayurvedics and have had not issue. you are using oils so there should be no problem.

 

[fancypants007]

I noticed earlier this year that most of the products I have been using lean towards natural ingredients or Ayurvedic.

I am finding more and more uses as well as more powders, oils and other products.

I know quite a few of us use Henna, Indigo and Cassia but, I thought it would be interesting to find out what others have discovered this year or in recent years about the beneficial uses of Ayurvedic products

I have the following powders and oils that I use for my hair, I make pastes or brew teas for rinsing and or use in other hair products.

Amla (oil and powder)
Bhringraj (oil and powder)
Neem (oil and powder) Note: I can't get pass the smell of the oil so I only use the powder.
Aritha
Hibiscus petal
Haritaki
Tulsi
Shikakai (powder and shampoo)
Vatika oil (cocunut hair oil)

So what Ayurvedic products are in your hair arsenal and how do you use them? Please share.



Here are the different results recorded by from nature with love for most of the prodcuts mentioned above. They also mention their suggested use of the products listed.

Bhringraj is an ancient remedy for hair loss, premature graying, skin allergies, and devitalized skin and hair. Use Bhringraj powder in combination with amla, shikakai, and neem powders for an herbal hair rinse, or make a coconut oil infusion with these herbs to use as a conditioning oil treatment. Bhringraj powder can also be added to Ayurvedic soaps, facials, body wraps, and washbags.

The amla fruit, also known as the Indian gooseberry, comes from a small tree that grows throughout India. The tree is worshipped as “Mother Nature” due to its nourishing fruit. The fruit is one of the highest natural sources of vitamin C, and it yields an oil that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat the hair and scalp. It is said to penetrate the scalp and strengthen hair at its root, to stop and reverse abnormal hair loss and to promote stronger, healthier new growth. It is also an excellent conditioning herb.

To use amla powder, make a hot water infusion with the powder and strain it. The tea can be used to rinse the hair after shampooing. Amla is best used in combination with shikakai, aritha, neem, bhringraj and tulsi powders. When using the herbs in combination, steep all of the herbs in water and strain the tea. The tea should be kept refrigerated and used within 4 days or preserved with an anti-bacterial preservative.

Alternatively, you can make an oil infusion by warming sesame or olive oil in a double boiler with the herbs for 4 hours. After 2 hours has passed, replace the spent herbs. After 4 hours, strain the infusion and preserve it with rosemary oil extract or T-50 (A type of Vitamin E oil).

Shikakai powder comes from de-shelled shikakai nuts. Shikakai is referred to as "fruit for the hair." It has a naturally mild pH, and it gently cleans the hair without stripping it of natural oils. Use shikakai as a natural hair wash for sensitive scalps or to control dandruff. Shikakai is said to promote hair growth and strengthen hair roots.For best results, combine 1 tablespoon each of shikakai powder, amla powder, bhringraj and aritha powder. Add them to 1 cup boiling water. Allow the infusion to sit for 10 minutes. If you have dandruff or scalp problems, you can add 1 teaspoon of neem powder to this mixture. You can also add 1 teaspoon of liquid castille soap to the mixture if you have very oily hair. Once cooled, use this mixture to wash your hair. Rinse well with warm water. If desired, follow with a light spritzing of amla and brahmi oils to condition the hair.

Tulsi is a strong natural antiseptic and germicidal used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various infections and illnesses. Use tulsi powder in facials or in a bath to fight acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. Tulsi powder is also useful for dandruff and general hair care.

Haritaki is said to have strong anti-bacterial properties. It is revitalizing, toning, nourishing and astringent when used in skin and hair care formulations. Add haritaki powder to facial scrubs, masks, body wraps, hair wraps and hair rinses. Add it to soaps with neem oil for an Ayurvedic germ fighting formula. You can also make a tea infusion by steeping haritaki powder in boiling water. The tea can be strained and used in place of water in skin care formulations.

Hibiscus petals, also known as jaswand, were used in Ayurvedic medicine to stimulate thicker hair growth and to prevent premature graying, hair loss and scalp disorders. The petals act as a natural, emollient hair conditioner. Hibiscus petal powder can be used in Ayurvedic hair washes, oil infusion treatments and vinegar rinses for the hair. Use hibiscus petal powder in combination with brahmi and amla powders.

Neem powder is highly anti-bacterial, and the leaves have been used for centuries to make anti-bacterial washes and poultices. Add neem powder to cosmetic clays to make a face pack or body wrap that is suitable for acne prone skin. Add neem powder to salt scrubs for skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Make a tea infusion with neem powder, and use the infusion in a bath to treat chicken pox or oozing skin eruptions. Use it in a gardener’s hand scrub with corn meal to provide anti-bacterial cleansing after working in the soil. Neem powder works well as a hair oil treatment for scalp conditions.

Aritha powder, also known as Soapnut, comes from the fruit of the Soapnut tree. The pulp of the fruit contains a high level of saponins that act as natural foaming agents. This powder can be used to wash delicate fabrics as well as to wash sensitive skin and hair. Add the powder to a facial mix of milk powder and clay to provide delicate cleansing of the skin. Add aritha powder to salt scrubs to add cleansing action.
As a hair and body wash, aritha powder is best used in a tea. Add 1 tablespoon of aritha powder to a cup of boiling water. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Cool and strain the tea for use as a hair wash or mild cleanser. Aritha can also be combined with amla, neem & shikakai powders for a more nutritive hair wash. Steep all of the herbs in water, and strain the tea. The tea should be kept refrigerated and used within 4 days or preserved with an anti-bacterial preservative.
Use with caution around the eyes.

I absolutely love these products. I always loved henna, but now I'm washing my hair using shikahai oil and I follow up with shikahai and alma powder. I put shikahai oil mixed with brahmi alma oil on my scalp every night and massage lightly. My hair is responding nicely. I find this to be very rewarding as well because these product promote hair growth and health and I don't have to frequent the asian bss looking for those right products. I am using these indian products and I use dominican conditioners/rinses/hairdressings to keep my hair in tip top shape. I appreciate Candy_C and Sareca for sharing these hair healthy tips.

 

[BrownBetty]

I henna every other month, I use amla and shikaikai....

My next step is to make an oil with the amla and shikaikai, I will use castor, avocado, and grapeseed as a base. I might add coconut.

If I make a tea from amla and shikaikai, will this soothe my scalp? It is itching soo bad!!!!! I have access to indian stores so if you all have any other suggestions for powders that will stop the itch I appreciate it.


MV

 

[Gemini350z]

I am a novice, but I plan to transition to all ayurvedic products, I feel no need to use anything that is not natural (besides liquid crack for my touch ups). This weekend I threw away most of my products.

Powders:
shikakai, amla, aritha, brahmi
Oils:
amla, coconut, amla, shikakai and vatika

 

[Gemini350z]

I plan to do my first henna this weekend and want to get the necessary supplies.

Can someone tell me what I need and how to do a henna treatment!? I try to search but all i get is a blank screen!

 

[tdwillis]

I just did a henna last night with henna powder, extra virgin olive oil, coconut milk, and honey. Today, my hair is really bouncy and full. I love it!

 

[gymfreak336]

My favourites are Shikkahai And Amla powders/oils

I dont see any reason why folk should be afraid, aslong as you listen for trails and errors.

like dont EVER COMB YOUR HAIR WHILST THESE POWDERS ARE SITTING IN YOUR WET HAIR

comb well beforehand (when hair is dry) then if ur about to blowdry after it will work out fine

If you airdry, only comb when saturated in condish (i personally dont comb at all after the first dry combing)

these powders should be rinsed thouroughly

i mean for like 20-25mins rinsed OUT with hottish water. thats where peoples problems lie with hair being stiff

Why didn't I know that before last nights disaster

 

[ajoyfuljoy]

I'm trying to be! I've started with shikakkai powder (sp?) and oil...waiting for it to come in the mail!

 

[HERicane10]

Did somebody say Ayurveda? I must confess.........I have gone to the 'dark side'...:assimilat.....that is 'the dark, thick, long, Indian haircare' side. If God grew it and it grows hair......I want it!AYURVEDA 4 LIFE!

I make amla, shikakai, & reetha herbal poo
Vatika oil
Coconut oil
Shikakai Oil
Henna

Soon to have: bhringraj and mahabhringraj and brahmi oil

I even made a shikakai oil last night; with amla, curry, mustard, and sage powders! GROW HAIR GROW!

 

[ChanelNo5]

I would love to try some of these things, but it all just seems so complicated. I don't know where to start .

 

[Jade Feria]

Wow, thanks for all the info! Ever since I started doing henna treatments I've been more and more interested in ayruvedic methods and products. I didn't know where to start. This thread is greatly appreciated.

 

[mscocoface]

If I make a tea from amla and shikaikai, will this soothe my scalp? It is itching soo bad!!!!! I have access to indian stores so if you all have any other suggestions for powders that will stop the itch I appreciate it.


MV

I am not sure if it will stop itching, I recommend you do more research to see if one of these powders or others help with that. I usually will place peppermint oil in something I am using on my scalp to help when I have an itchy scalp.

 

[BrownBetty]

I am not sure if it will stop itching, I recommend you do more research to see if one of these powders or others help with that. I usually will place peppermint oil in something I am using on my scalp to help when I have an itchy scalp.

I have pepperment oil... I am going to add it to the tea. Thanks!

 

[mscocoface]

I have pepperment oil... I am going to add it to the tea. Thanks!

Start off with a few drops and then keep adding as you test it on your scalp. Peppermint is very strong and can burn your scalp if there is too much.

 

[tallnomad]

has this been posted anywhere? if so, i apologize for duplicating, but this is interesting especially bolded parts. the yogurt section (there is a thread about yogurt for the hair(topical application) somewhere on this site too).

this is quite long--the whole thing is found here: http://bath-n-beauty.laurieashton.c...ndian_Herbs_for_Hair_Care#Ayurvedic_Hair_Care

Ayurvedic Hair Care

Indians believe that the health of the hair, skin, and nails indicates the health of the person, and that someone with unhealthy hair needs to manage their diet better. Specifically they lack protein (Indians generally recommend milk protein to remedy this--especially yogurt), and fruits and vegetables. The ideal exercise according to Ayurvedic practitioners is walking.

Most herbs used in Indian hair and skin care (yes many of the herbs below are also good for your skin!) are good for everyone, regardless of dosha. If you have particular problems or concerns, you may want to contact an Ayurvedic practitioner for a professional consultation.

Oils and Oiling Techniques
compiled by mira-chan

Why oil? Oils are used as a protective conditioner and for treating problems of hair growth and both hair and scalp condition. They can be used daily to protect hair from the elements. Herbal oils are applied to the scalp daily or pre-wash to treat scalp conditions. More thorough scalp and length oiling is done pre-wash as a conditioner to protect the hair from the drying effects of the cleansing herbs and water.

Herbal oils are chosen depending on condition of the scalp and used either together or separately. They are applied on non wash days in the evening or at least 30 minutes before washing to let the herb act on the scalp.

Pre-wash oiling is done on dry hair at least 30 minutes before washing. Non- wash day oiling can be done on dry or damp (misted) hair depending on how hair reacts to oiling. Amount used depends on hair length and how much oil the hair absorbs. Start with small amounts and increase as needed.

Post wash oiling is done on dry or damp hair depending on the hair reaction to oils. Only a small amount is used. It helps in detangling and shine, similar to a leave-in conditioner.

Which oils might be right for you?

Generally using herbs for healthy hair maintenance involves some kind of oiling (see below) and an herbal wash. You may also add an herbal rinse. The wash and rinse can be one mixture, or used separately, but together they should contain at least one cleansing agent (such as shikakai or aritha/reetha and one conditioning agent such as amla). Some Indians also use rice starch as a type of natural emulsifier to bind the herb powders together and make them easier to apply and rinse out.

Indian women tend to oil their hair daily or every other day, and to wear their hair in a single braid or a bun. Very rarely do they wear their hair down.
Please keep reading for some wash and rinse recipes and advice, and for tips on oils and oiling, and some information on the various herbs and commercial products that you can use with Indian herbal hair care.

Violetflower's Wash Mix II

I used the following to wash my hair with. All measurements are in dessert spoons.

1.5 dessert spoons of amla
1 dessert spoon shikakai
1 dessert spoon orange peel
1 dessert spoon brahmi
1 dessert spoon neem
1 dessert spoon tulsi
2 dessert spoons kapoor kachli
2 dessert spoons maka
3 dessert spoons marsh mallow
1 and a half teaspoons of virgin coconut oil.
These I blended in with an aritha (measurement?) and hot water mix, which made a thick gravy. Application instructions?

My hair dried overnight, and was wonderfully silky, and ultra shiny!

[edit] Conditioning Mixes That May Be Used As Gentle Washes
Mira-chan's Wash Mix I

Hibiscus leaf (in the testing process) Take half a cup of fresh hibiscus leaves and crush them. The boil them in about a cup of water for 20 minutes. Strain, let cook and use as shampoo. (Tried once using “Rose of Sharon” hibiscus species, good results). The hibiscus leaf wash is not to be used post oiling or on oily hair unless it is very concentrated. It will not remove much oil. It mostly acts as an anti-dryness barrier for my hair as water can make it dry.


Mira-chan's Wash Mix II

Take two table spoons of powdered hibiscus flowers, mix with a cup of boiling water. Let cool. Apply to hair and leave for 5 to 20 minutes. Rinse well. Gives shine and cleans non-oiled hair well. Would be good for those who want to wash very often (daily or every other day) or for non-oiled naturally dry hair/ scalp. (Tested, several washes done with great success.)

Shell's Herbal CO

Use three tablespoons of amla in about two cups of warm water. Let sit for 5-15 minutes. Apply to hair and scalp. Gently massage scalp with a bit of water splashed on. Leave in for 15 minutes or so. Won't remove any but a very light oiling. Nicely conditioning and gently cleansing. Also makes your hair smell nice.




[edit] Rinses and Conditioners
compiled by Icydove

Traditionally, prewash oilings and using conditioning herbs in the washing mix serve as the Indian herb user's only conditioners. However, some people use Indian herbs for additional conditioning needs or for deep treatments.


Icydove's Herbal Rinse

1 heaping tsp. of hibiscus
1 heaping tsp. of elderflower
1/2 tsp. of honey
Add the herbs and honey to two cups of hot water. Let steep for about 5 minutes, and strain. I dunk my ends in the mixture, then pour it over my head. I rinse lightly to prevent the hibiscus from staining. TIP: Use the mixture while the water is still warm or the honey could stiffen hair. I use aloe vera gel and jojoba oil mixed together as a leave-in. Once my hair dries, I use a little shea butter as well.


mira-chan's Hibiscus Conditioner

3-4 flowers of hibiscus one tablespoon fenugreek seeds ( coarse powder or just crushed) 1 table spoon of arrowroot powder/ starch.

Mix arrowroot powder with a little bit of cool water. Make a large mug worth of strong tea with hibiscus and fenugreek. Strain then add arrowroot. Allow to cool then use as a conditioning rinse.

hibiscus tea
fenugreek (strained)
arrowroot powder






Kissedbyfire's Indian Herbal Wash/Condition This comes from a public thread, so I think we can use it--I have tried emailing KBF for permission.

This is for thick, tailbone length hair, so it creates about half a bowl size of goo.

1 tablespoon neem
1 tablespoon shikakai
1 tablespoon aritha
1 tablespoon amla
1 tablespoon sandlewood
1 tablespoon brahmi
1 tablespoon hibiscus
2 tablespoon marshmallow root
1 cup tea (rosemary, chamomile, lavendar, etc.)
Allow tea to simmer while mixing up the herbs. Add tea to herb mixture, mix well. Let cool to a warm tempture and apply.

Once cooled I hop in the shower, wet down my hair and do an acv rinse. I then towel dry, bend over at the waist and allow my hair to hang down. I start by massaging the goo into my scalp first. Once I'm sure I've covered that, I divide my hair into about four sections and start working the goo into each section. I massage the sections of the hair between the palms of my hands making sure it's massaged in really well. I then bun my hair, wrap a plastic bag around it and a towel for extra bit of heat. I let this sit for about 60 or more minutes.

To rinse out, I bend over at the waist again and rinse really well, massaging my hair as I let the water run over it. I then flip my hair back and rinse some more. Thankfully this doesn't create tangles, but I can see how it would with thinner hair.

 

[Serenity_Peace]

I found this website to be a wealth of excellent information:

http://www.oilbath.com/home.htm

About Kesini oil:

This mineral rich herbal blend is recommended for premature graying of the hair. It promotes blackening and strengthening of the hair, and is used to treat dandruff as well.

Ingredients: Indigo, Bacopa, Hibiscus, Indian gooseberry, Coconut oil, Castor oil, Indian spikenard, Ferrous sulphate, Calcined conch shell.

Recommended use: 1-2 tsp./5-10 ml. applied to scalp thirty minutes before bath or shower.

OR....

Neelibringadi Oil:

Containing herbs with well known hair stimulating qualities, this has been Ayurveda's primary hair-loss preventative for centuries. Additionally, it maintains and promotes the health of the hair and scalp, providing anti-fungal and anti-dandruff actions. It can prevent and reverse premature graying as it cools the head, bestowing a refreshed mental state and a calm, peaceful sleep.

Ingredients: Coconut milk, Milk, Coconut oil, False daisy, Ballon vine, Castor oil, Bacopa, Gotu kola, Indian gooseberry, Indigo, Licorice, Indian licorice.

Recommended use: Apply 1-2 tsp./5-10 ml. lightly heated oil on scalp thirty minutes before bath or shower.

 

[mochamadness]

Another ayurvedic lady in the house!

Right now, I'm in love with amla, brahmi, bhringraj, vatika, and kesavardhini oils. I rotate and mix these.

For powders I use amla, brahmi, shikakai, and methi. The are all good stuff. Depending on how I feel I'll mix these up as a paste or do a rinse with these. When used as a paste, it can be pretty had to get out so heavy rinsing is definitely needed.

I have noticed since adding my ayurvedic routine my hair has gotten so much stronger and thicker and on top of that it barely sheds.

 

[mochamadness]

I found this website to be a wealth of excellent information:

http://www.oilbath.com/home.htm

About Kesini oil:

This mineral rich herbal blend is recommended for premature graying of the hair. It promotes blackening and strengthening of the hair, and is used to treat dandruff as well.

Ingredients: Indigo, Bacopa, Hibiscus, Indian gooseberry, Coconut oil, Castor oil, Indian spikenard, Ferrous sulphate, Calcined conch shell.

Recommended use: 1-2 tsp./5-10 ml. applied to scalp thirty minutes before bath or shower.

OR....

Neelibringadi Oil:

Containing herbs with well known hair stimulating qualities, this has been Ayurveda's primary hair-loss preventative for centuries. Additionally, it maintains and promotes the health of the hair and scalp, providing anti-fungal and anti-dandruff actions. It can prevent and reverse premature graying as it cools the head, bestowing a refreshed mental state and a calm, peaceful sleep.

Ingredients: Coconut milk, Milk, Coconut oil, False daisy, Ballon vine, Castor oil, Bacopa, Gotu kola, Indian gooseberry, Indigo, Licorice, Indian licorice.

Recommended use: Apply 1-2 tsp./5-10 ml. lightly heated oil on scalp thirty minutes before bath or shower.

I've heard nothing but good things about Neelibringadi Oil. I'm looking forward to trying it really soon.

 

[Mahalialee4]

My favourites are Shikkahai And Amla powders/oils

I dont see any reason why folk should be afraid, aslong as you listen for trails and errors.

like dont EVER COMB YOUR HAIR WHILST THESE POWDERS ARE SITTING IN YOUR WET HAIR

comb well beforehand (when hair is dry) then if ur about to blowdry after it will work out fine

If you airdry, only comb when saturated in condish (i personally dont comb at all after the first dry combing)

these powders should be rinsed thouroughly

i mean for like 20-25mins rinsed OUT with hottish water. thats where peoples problems lie with hair being stiff

I agree with the advice. Have never had one problem with the powders and have been using them since 1999. My last addition was Indigo. I think I have used every Indian powder out there for hair. My hair loves them. bonjour

 

[Mahalialee4]

I make my own hair oils and butters with the powders and coconut greases using natural coconut oil from the Islands and solid emu oil from Canada. Makes a great grease and base.
Some other powdered herbs I use are Indian Hemp, Southernwood,Eclipta Alba, Sheep Sorrel and quinine. Help me, I am stock piled but I love love them and do not plan to run out. I make herbal teas in the summer. So I really vouch for this stuff. bonjour.