Shikakai
Shikakai or Acacia Concinna is a climber with thorny, brown branches. The plant is full of vitamins and anti-oxidants which enhances hair growth and a lustrous mane. owing to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, it can be used for medicinal purposes on wounds and skin problems.
Shikakai Benefits for Hair
It is a well-known fact that Shikakai is an age-old remedy for hair related problems but did you know that it has other benefits too. Let us explore its several therapeutic benefits and uses.
1. Hair Growth
The herbal remedy of Shikakai for hair growth has been coming down through ages. Shikakai powder when mixed with henna powder and yoghurt adds sheen to your hair and also aids hair growth.
2. Cleanser
It acts as a hair cleanser. Although it does not work up a rich lather, it cleans your hair effectively without any harsh effects to the hair or scalp.
3. Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Properties
The anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties prevent lice, dandruff or skin problems like scabies, psoriasis and eczema from occurring. Shikakai can also be used as an antiseptic to heal wounds.
4. Heals Wounds
When Shikakai paste mixed with turmeric paste is applied to cuts and bruises, it gets cured.
5. Controls Hair Fall
The vitamins and anti-oxidants prevent hair loss and as a result, cures balding too
6. Used in Making Detergents
Due to the presence of saponins, it is used as an ingredient to make detergents and moreover being a good cleanser can effectively be used for cleaning purposes. The water used in boiling Shikakai and Reetha together can be used to wash delicate fabrics and remove solid stain marks.
7. Used for Good Oral Health
The herbal benefits of Shikakai are not only for hair and skin. Rinsing mouth regularly with Shikakai in lukewarm water help good oral health. It further cures gum diseases and prevents bad breath and building up of plaque. Gurgling with Shikakai and warm water can cure tonsillitis and throat infection.
8. Balances Blood Sugar Level
Taking Shikakai powder regulates normal blood sugar levels. It neither allows the blood sugar level to decrease nor increase thereby keeping it balanced.
9. Cures Diseases
Apart from the skin and oral diseases, Shikakai helps cure Black fever (during malaria) and Jaundice. When the pods of the Shikakai are powdered and applied over the Leprosy affected area, it can cure the dreaded disease.
How to Use Shikakai for Hair
Shikakai can be utilized in a variety of ways to increase the benefits it offers. These are some of the commonly used techniques:
1. Shikakai Hair Wash (Shampoo Replacement)
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Mix shikakai powder in water to make semi-thick paste.
- Hair should be damp and then apply the paste to your scalp the tips.
- Relax and massage gently. Leave for 5-10 minutes.
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Rinse the area with water that is lukewarm.
- Make use of 1-2 times per week to cleanse gently.
2. Hair Mask for Nutrition and Conditioning
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Mix Shikakai Powder curls (for the dry and brittle hair) as well as a tablespoon of coconut oil to create an extremely smooth paste.
- Apply it to the hair and scalp, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse.
- To combat dandruff, Add fenugreek powder into the mix.
3. Shikakai Hair Oil
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Add Shikakai Powder into the coconut, basil or avocado oil, and allow it to infuse for two weeks and shake the bottle every now and then.
- Apply the oil to your scalp a couple of times per week and wash it off after a couple of hours.
4. Shikakai Water/Decoction (Conditioning Rinse)
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Cook 1 tbsp shikakai in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes, strain and let cool.
- Apply as a last wash after shampooing your hair to provide natural conditioning and shine.
FAQ's Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What exactly is Shikakai and what is its purpose?
A: Shikakai is a Natural Ayurvedic herb that is used to cleanse hair gently. It is a great ingredient to use in liquid or powder form to make shampoo or hair mask.
Q2 Does Shikakai work with all kinds of hair?
A: It is true that Shikakai works for every hair kinds. It is particularly beneficial for those with oily, dandruff-prone and sensitive scalps due its mild pH balance.
Q3: Can Shikakai assist with dandruff and hair fall?
A: Absolutely. Shikakai strengthens hair roots, decreases hair fall and also has antifungal properties that aid in treating and stop the growth of dandruff.