Herbal hair care is becoming increasingly popular because these remedies are natural, effective, and budget-friendly compared to synthetic products. Herbal solutions are available in oils, shampoos, conditioners, sprays, creams, powders, and tonics. If you’re looking to boost hair growth and scalp health naturally, here are the 10 best herbs for hair you should know about.
1. Arnica Montana for Hair Growth
Arnica montana, or mountain arnica, is widely known as one of the best herbs for strengthening hair and stimulating growth.
Benefits of Arnica:
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Stimulates hair follicles by improving scalp circulation
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Reduces dandruff and scalp infections
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Strengthens roots, preventing thinning
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Balances excess scalp oil
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Promotes thicker, shinier hair
How to Use:
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Oil Massage: Dilute arnica oil with coconut, almond, or jojoba oil. Massage gently for 10–15 minutes, leave for 30 minutes, then wash with mild shampoo.
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Hair Mask: Mix arnica oil with aloe vera gel and honey/yogurt. Apply for 20–30 minutes, then rinse.
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Shampoo Add-On: Add 5–10 drops of arnica oil to your shampoo.
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Overnight Treatment: Apply diluted arnica oil, cover with a towel/cap overnight, and wash in the morning.
⚠️ Always dilute arnica oil, patch-test before use, and avoid oral consumption.
2. Henna (Mehndi) for Hair Growth
Henna is both a natural dye and conditioner that strengthens hair while imparting a natural shine and color.
Benefits of Henna:
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Acts as a natural conditioner
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Makes hair strong, thick, and moisturized
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Removes excess oil and dirt
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Prevents dandruff recurrence
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Promotes faster hair growth
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Reduces split ends and nourishes damaged hair
3. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) for Hair
Amla is rich in Vitamin C, iron, carotene, and antioxidants that deeply nourish the scalp.
Benefits of Amla:
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Prevents dandruff
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Strengthens follicles
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Slows greying
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Boosts collagen for new growth
How to Use:
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Massage scalp with amla oil
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Add amla powder to DIY masks
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Drink fresh amla juice for internal nourishment
4. Bhringraj – “King of Herbs”
Praised in Ayurveda as a cure for hair fall and premature greying, bhringraj enhances both the quantity and quality of hair.
Benefits:
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Reduces dandruff and scalp issues
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Improves circulation
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Prevents stress-induced hair fall
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Deeply conditions hair
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Darkens premature grey strands naturally
How to Use:
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Oil: Massage with bhringraj oil (Mahabhringraj oil recommended).
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Powder: Use in DIY hair masks mixed with other herbs.
5. Jatamansi (Spikenard) for Hair
Traditionally used for hair thickening, jatamansi stimulates hair follicles and improves scalp health.
Benefits:
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Reduces premature greying
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Enhances scalp condition
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Boosts hair strength and volume
How to Use:
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Powder: Mix with water to form a paste, apply for 20–30 minutes, then rinse.
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Oil: Massage with jatamansi oil; blend with henna for natural coloring.
6. Hibiscus for Hair Growth
Rich in flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals, hibiscus is backed by both Ayurveda and science for boosting growth.
Benefits:
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Strengthens follicles
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Prevents thinning and breakage
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Reduces hair fall
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Improves scalp health
How to Use:
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Powder Paste: Mix hibiscus and amla powders with water; apply for 30–40 minutes.
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Hair Pack: Blend hibiscus powder with curd, honey, and water.
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Oil Massage: Massage scalp with hibiscus-infused oil.
7. Bahera (Bibhitaki) for Hair
An Ayurvedic tonic for stronger and shinier hair, bahera also supports scalp cleanliness.
Benefits:
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Promotes strong, lustrous hair
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Prevents dandruff and excess oil buildup
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Delays premature greying
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Encourages thicker strands
8. Shikakai – “Fruit for the Hair”
A time-tested Ayurvedic herb, shikakai is packed with vitamins and antioxidants for strong, long hair.
Benefits:
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Moisturizes hair naturally
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Prevents hair fall
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Delays greying
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Soothes dandruff and itchy scalp
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Promotes shiny, lustrous hair
How to Use:
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Cleansing Mask: Mix shikakai, reetha, and amla powders with a little neem oil. Apply for 20 minutes and rinse.
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Growth Mask: Blend shikakai powder with avocado oil, apply for 20 minutes, then wash.
9. Brahmi for Hair
Brahmi rejuvenates the scalp, strengthens follicles, and combats stress-related hair fall.
Benefits:
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Prevents split ends and breakage
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Soothes dandruff and itchiness
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Strengthens roots and promotes growth
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Slows greying
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Calms scalp and reduces stress-induced fall
How to Use:
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Strengthening Mask: Mix brahmi, amla, and tulsi powders with coconut oil and water. Apply, dry, and rinse.
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Rejuvenating Mask: Combine brahmi, hibiscus, and reetha powders into a paste; apply for an hour before washing.
10. Aloe Vera (Ghrit Kumari) for Hair
Aloe vera is one of the most versatile herbs for scalp hydration and hair repair.
Benefits:
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Fights bacterial & fungal scalp infections
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Deeply hydrates dry, brittle hair
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Repairs cuticles, restoring shine
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Protects against sun damage
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Provides keratin-like proteins for strength
How to Use:
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Spray aloe vera juice mixed with water on hair for softness
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Add aloe gel/powder to hair masks
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Drink fresh aloe juice for internal benefits
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