Shikakai can indeed be a wonderful traditional remedy for dry and brittle hair, providing a gentle cleansing effect without stripping your scalp of its natural oils. In the Siddha-Ayurvedic tradition, shikakai is prized for its ability to maintain balance in the scalp’s environment by soothing the pitta dosha and nourishing the scalp tissues. Here’s how you might approach using shikakai for best results.
To begin with, it is most commonly used in powder form. A simple method is to make a paste by mixing the shikakai powder with warm water. Aim for a yogurt-like consistency. Once ready, apply this to your scalp and hair, ensuring even coverage. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water. There’s no need to apply shampoo afterward; shikakai naturally cleans your hair.
If you’re experiencing hair loss or significant discomfort, shikakai can be combined with other Ayurvedic herbs like amla or reetha for additional benefits. These can enhance hair strength and reduce shedding. Use a 1:1 ratio with these powders when making your paste. Be mindful, though; if your scalp feels dry, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to the mixture for added moisture.
Quality matters, so ensure you’re sourcing a good quality, organic shikakai to avoid impurities that may harm your scalp. As for frequency, using shikakai once or twice a week is generally recommended.
Given that your hair has been falling out as well, it could also be beneficial to assess your diet and lifestyle since hair quality often reflects internal health. Enhance your diet with foods rich in iron and vitamins, and manage stress through practices like yoga or meditation, subtly supporting your hair health from the inside. If hair fall persists, consult a healthcare professional to ensure no underlying health issues are causing the symptoms.
