Shikakai can be a wonderful addition for managing hair that’s feeling dry and brittle, but it does require a bit of know-how. This herb is known for its conditioning and cleansing properties, and it aligns well with the principles of Siddha-Ayurveda by balancing pitta and kapha doshas, often associated with hair issues.
To start with, shikakai works best when it’s not used overly concentrated with water. Instead, you should mix about 2-3 tablespoons of shikakai powder with enough water to form a thin paste. If your hair is particularly dry, you might want to add a little yogurt or aloe vera gel to this paste; both ingredients add moisture and help in making the mixture smoother and easy to apply.
Once your mixture is ready, apply it to your scalp and hair generously, ensure thorough coverage. Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes. This duration gives time for the nutrients to penetrate and cleanse without stripping natural oils. After that, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all residue. Shikakai acts as a natural conditioner, so there’s technically no need for an additional conditioner after. However, if you feel the need to, use a light, silicone-free conditioner just at the ends of your hair to prevent weighing it down.
Using shikakai 1-2 times a week is generally sufficient. Overdoing it might dry out the hair further, especially if you have a naturally dry scalp. Remember, the effects may take some time to manifest; patience is key. Also, while using shikakai, try to avoid chemical shampoos or treatments that could counteract its benefits. If you continue to experience excessive dryness, it might be worth reassessing diet and hydration, as these also strongly impact hair health. If problems persist, consult a specialist to ensure there aren’t other underlying conditions.
