12 February 2011

Infusing the good stuff...Take 2: Essential Oils

Thanks for all the encouragement on the last post looking at petroleum and mineral oil. Now onto an alternative. What do I mean? Well, we can start with words such as PEPPERMINT, LAVENDER, JOJOBA or even TEA TREE. Now some of these oils may be found in greases, shampoos etc that contain mineral oil and petroleum; but in what quantities I cannot say.          

There are, however, some manufacturers out there whose products will contain no mineral oil, petroleum nor parabens. I read on some blogs and websites that is important to have healthy hair by using natural products containing predominantly - and at times, only - essential oils. But, many never say what they are or what exactly I should be looking out for. One useful website even went as far as to break everything down for easier reading. 

And, I also came across some entities who produce Vegan Shampoos and Conditioners! Not sure how these products would work on our ethnic hair though.

Here goes my DISCLAIMER: Please desist from quoting and paraphrasing anything I have written in this post as I am NOT a qualified anything to do with science. 

So, this post is not just to help me out but you, too.

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?
These liquids are distilled or derived from the stem, leaves, etc of a plant. They are aromatic and therapeutic in nature; and, are highly concentrated and for this reason, a little goes a long way.



WHAT EXACTLY ARE THEY SO GOOD AT DOING?
Here is just a short list and what most sources had to say about:
Basil:                        Helps to promote growth.

Chamomile:              Helps to soothe scalp.


Clary Sage/Sage:     Helps to combat dandruff.  Sage is excellent at clarifying the scalp.

Lavender:                Promotes hair growth and soothes the scalp.

Peppermint:            This is good for soothing and stimulating the scalp. It also helps with hair growth.

Tea tree:                Purifies the scalp.

Ylang ylang:          Just like Tea tree oil, Ylang ylang purifies the scalp.


From my experience, I have used Olive oil on my scalp since starting my locs as I thought it would help with the itch. NOPE! It made me scratch even worse so I know that it won't work for me. So, remember that alot of these oils you will go thru by trial and error especially if you are keen on doing your own spritz., shampoos, etc. at home. Have a look at this regimen using Apple Cider Vinegar. Maybe sometime, I'll do a post on mixing certain of these oils together.

Leave your comments.
Lots of love,

Naturaleza.