Finding a remedy for hair problems by using natural products is possible and a healthier route to strong, shiny hair. Common hair and scalp problems include dandruff, hair thinning and dull, dry, patchy hair. This is generally due to lifestyle, diet and hair treatment. Hair thinning and baldness may be genetic, however.
Healthy Hair – What to Eat
For healthy hair, eat a diet rich in protein, carotenes, essential fatty acids, iron, silica, zinc and vitamins B, C and E. Avoid fizzy, carbonated drinks which are acidic and may lead to mineral loss in the body which affects hair. Never crash diet to lose weight and use stress-management techniques. Exercising regularly will improve blood circulation which will, in turn, improve circulation to the scalp.
Essential Oils and Hair Treatments
Identify a specific problem and then choose a remedy to suit. Generally, a formula which is applied at night time to an affected area is best left in overnight and washed out with a gentle shampoo the next morning. Use a final rinse with the same blend of oils stirred into a jug of warm water.
For example, for a red, itchy scalp, try adding two drops each of geranium and lavender oils to 1 tablespoon of olive or almond oil. Massage into scalp and leave overnight. Rinse with the diluted oils as described above.
Use natural shampoos, conditioners or other products that do not contain harmful chemicals to avoid irritating the scalp and to avoid hair that is stripped and damaged by products with harmful ingredients.
Remedy Hair Problems such as Oily, Scaly Scalp
Mix three drops of ceder wood, two drops of rosemary and two drops of lemon essential oil with five teaspoons of unscented body lotion. Massage into scalp and wash off after allowing to penetrate for a few hours. Distilled water mixed with a splash of lemon juice makes a wonderful rinse for oily hair.
Remedy Dry, Flaking Scalp with Essential Oils
Mix three drops each of lavender, geranium and sandalwood essential oils mixed with a tablespoon of almond oil to remedy dryness and flaking scalp. To alleviate dry scalp, swallow one tablespoon of flaxseed oil daily to help the body maintain healthy levels of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids necessary for healthy hair.
Caution needs to be exercised when applying essential oils if one is pregnant or is trying to get pregnant. Consult a health care professional if haircare problems fail to clear up after trying home hair remedies, if hair loss results in bald patches or if there are underlying medical problems.
Source:
- Curing Everyday Ailments the Natural Way, Reader's Digest Southern Africa, pages 227, 228
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Fleur Hupston - Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer based in Botswana, Southern Africa. From this unique perspective, she writes travel ...
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