6 Benefits of Shikakai for Healthy Hair

When it comes to taking care of our hair, there are hundreds of cosmetic giants offering thousands of products. But if you want to avoid using harmful chemicals on your locks, you have to trust Mother Nature. Though there are Ayurvedic and herbal hair care products in the market, most of them come with preservatives or additives. So, it is always better to stick to simple homemade products that have been used since ancient times. Shikakai powder is one such natural hair care product that was an integral part of ancient Indian hair care practice. This article will uncover the secret recipe of homemade shikakai hair wash powder and its application and benefits.

Shikakai, scientifically known as Acacia Concinna and commonly called soap pod, is a climbing shrub from the Acacia genus. Originated from Asia, this Ayurvedic medicinal plant has been traditionally used as a natural hair care product throughout the Indian Subcontinent for ages. The plant’s fruit pods, leaves, and bark contain high levels of ‘saponins’, which contribute to its foaming and mild cleansing properties. Hence, shikakai has been used as a natural shampoo or hair powder. Even though it does not produce lots of lather like sulfate-rich commercial shampoos, it cleanses the scalp perfectly with its naturally low pH and makes hair beautiful without stripping its natural oils. The fruit pods of shikakai are dried under the sun and ground into a fine powder, which is then turned into a paste by adding water for washing hair. These days, the ingredient is also added to synthetic Ayurvedic shampoos.

# Keeps The Scalp Clean

The best thing about shikakai is that it cleanses dirt, excess oil, and dandruff accumulated on the scalp nicely. This helps in cooling it down and maintaining the natural oil of the hair.

# Nourishes Hair Follicles

Vitamin C and vitamin D are abundant in shikakai. It also contains lots of micronutrients. All these help in nourishing the hair follicles, thereby enhancing the overall health of the hair.

# Conditions Hair Strands

Shikakai works s a natural conditioner for our hair. It not only strengthens the root of each strand but also makes the fibers softer. This is essential for luxuriant hair growth.

# Promotes Hair Growth

As the ingredient provides sufficient nourishment to the hair follicles, the growth of hair gets stimulated. Moreover, its vitamin C content gives the scalp a significant collagen boost, making the hair grow exponentially.

# Reduces Hair Loss

It improves the health of the scalp by keeping it clean and providing nutrients to it. As a result, you get rid of the issues like frequent hair fall or severe hair loss.

# Adds Beautiful Shine

If your hair is dull, unhealthy, and always tangled, shikakai can be the savior. It turns the hair healthy from the inside, makes it more manageable, and adds a beautiful shine.