Long before there was an aisle of plastic bottles, there were herbs. Women across Africa, the Caribbean, and the American South were rinsing, steeping, and oiling their hair with plants that grew nearby — and passing down what worked.
Below are thirteen of the botanicals we work with most, what each one actually does, and how to use it at home. Many of these show up in our Herbal Hair Tea and throughout the Herbal Moisturizing Collection.
1. Lavender
Calming for an irritated, itchy scalp — and the reason so many wash days feel like a reset. Infuse into a carrier oil and use it for a slow scalp massage before you shampoo.
2. Fennel
Rich in vitamins and minerals that support strong strands and help reduce breakage. Steep fennel seeds and add the cooled liquid to your conditioner.
3. Coltsfoot Leaf
A traditional favorite for scalp comfort and flake reduction. Best used as a cooled herbal rinse after conditioning.
4. Catnip
Not just for cats. Catnip is used to stimulate the scalp and support fuller-looking hair. Infuse the leaves into your hair oil.
5. Hibiscus
Loaded with antioxidants, and one of the most-loved herbs in textured hair care. It nourishes the scalp and brings back shine. Crush the petals into a mask with conditioner.
6. Anise
Traditionally used to help with flaking and to improve the feel and texture of the hair.
7. Garlic
It will never smell luxurious, but garlic supports circulation at the scalp — which is where healthy growth starts. Mix a small amount of garlic juice with honey and apply to the scalp only.
8. Shavegrass (Horsetail)
High in silica, a building block for hair and skin. Brew it as a tea and use it as a strengthening rinse.
9. Clove
Warming and stimulating. Traditionally used for scalp comfort and to address itchiness. Infuse into your favorite hair oil — a little goes a long way.
10. Burdock Root
A powerhouse of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Widely used for scalp conditions and overall scalp health. Excellent in a mask.
11. Rosemary
The one everyone has heard of, and for good reason. Rosemary is used to strengthen hair and support a healthy scalp, and the scent is invigorating on its own. Try it as an infused shampoo or a scalp oil.
12. Cinnamon
Supports circulation to the scalp — and leaves a warm natural scent behind. Use sparingly; it can be stimulating on sensitive skin.
13. Peppermint
That cooling tingle isn't a gimmick. Peppermint invigorates the scalp, helps soothe irritation, and is one of the most refreshing herbs you can use on wash day.
How to actually use them
Hot oil method: Add your herbs (or one of our tea bags) to a carrier oil like olive, jojoba, or sweet almond. Sit the jar in a warm water bath for 30–60 minutes. Strain, cool, and apply to the scalp and lengths.
Herbal rinse: Steep in hot water like a tea, let it cool completely, and pour over your hair after conditioning. Do not rinse out.
Mask boost: Add cooled herbal liquid to your deep conditioner before applying.
A note on patch testing: herbs are potent. If you have sensitive skin or known allergies, test a small area first.
Don't want to DIY?
That's exactly why we make what we make. Our Herbal Hair Tea gives you the herbs pre-blended and ready to infuse, and our Herbal Moisturizing Shampoo already carries thirteen of them alongside mango butter and shea.
The plants did the work first. We just made it easier to use them.
