5 Ayurvedic Herbs Traditionally Used for Hair Care
Long before bottled shampoos, Indian households cared for their hair with plants from the kitchen garden and the forest. These five herbs appear again and again in Ayurvedic hair care.
Five herbs appear again and again in Ayurvedic hair care: Amla (Indian gooseberry), Bhringraj, Brahmi, Neem and Shikakai. They are traditionally used in hair oils, herbal powders and natural cleansers to nourish the hair and keep the scalp clean.
1. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) is a sour green fruit that is naturally rich in vitamin C. In Indian homes it is used fresh, dried, as a powder in hair packs, and infused into hair oils. It is one of the most familiar ingredients in traditional hair care.
2. Bhringraj — the ‘king of hair’
Bhringraj (Eclipta prostrata) is a small plant that grows in damp places. Its name is often translated as ‘king of hair’, and in Ayurvedic tradition it is one of the herbs most closely linked with hair care. It is usually used in herbal hair oils for scalp massage.
3. Brahmi
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is best known in Ayurveda as a calming herb. In hair care it is commonly added to cooling hair oils used for a relaxing scalp massage — a big reason why a Brahmi champi is so popular before bedtime.
4. Neem
Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been used across India for everyday hygiene for centuries. For hair, neem leaves and neem oil are traditionally used to keep the scalp clean, especially for people who deal with a flaky or itchy scalp.
5. Shikakai — the natural cleanser
Shikakai (Acacia concinna) literally means ‘fruit for hair’. Its dried pods were used as a natural shampoo long before bottled shampoos. It cleans gently without leaving hair feeling stripped, which is why it is still a favourite in herbal hair washes.
How to use these herbs today
- Herbal hair oils: the easiest way — the herbs are infused into a base oil for regular scalp massage.
- Hair packs: herb powders mixed with water or curd, applied for 20–30 minutes and rinsed off.
- Herbal cleansers: Shikakai-based washes for a gentle clean.
- Consistency: herbs work slowly. Use them regularly for a few months rather than once in a while.
Always do a small patch test before trying a new herb or product, and consult a doctor or dermatologist if you have a scalp condition. Traditional use is a guide, not a medical promise.
Neeltaru Hair Grow Oil
Our herbal hair oil is inspired by these Ayurvedic traditions. Check the product page for the full ingredient list.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. For any skin, scalp or health concern, please consult a qualified doctor or dermatologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
There isn’t one ‘best’ herb. Amla, Bhringraj, Brahmi, Neem and Shikakai are each used for different purposes, which is why traditional hair oils often combine several of them.
Yes. Many traditional hair oils and hair packs combine two or more of these herbs.
Give any routine at least 8–12 weeks of regular use. Results vary from person to person.
Most people use them without trouble, but anyone can be sensitive to a plant. Do a patch test first and speak to a doctor if you have a skin or scalp condition.