10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Itchy Scalp

Herbal essential oils are natural remedies that can help alleviate an itchy scalp by soothing irritation and reducing inflammation.

Oils such as lavender, tea tree, and peppermint are commonly used due to their antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can combat dandruff and scalp infections. These oils can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied directly to the scalp or mixed into a shampoo for regular use. They also have a calming effect that may help reduce stress-related itching.

However, it's important to perform a patch test first to avoid any allergic reactions.

1. Melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, is a popular essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia.

It is widely recognized for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties, making it a valuable natural remedy for various skin conditions, including an itchy scalp. When diluted properly with a carrier oil, tea tree oil can help reduce dandruff, fungal infections, and irritation that contribute to scalp itchiness. Its ability to soothe the skin and combat common scalp pathogens makes it a favored choice in both aromatherapy and dermatological treatments.

Regular use of tea tree oil in scalp treatments may provide relief from persistent itchiness and promote a healthier, more comfortable scalp environment.

2. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herb used in essential oils for its calming and therapeutic properties.

The essential oil derived from this plant is widely recognized for its ability to soothe skin irritations, making it a valuable remedy for an itchy scalp. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help reduce scalp inflammation and combat fungal or bacterial infections that may contribute to itching. When diluted with a carrier oil, lavender essential oil can be safely applied to the scalp to provide relief and promote a healthier environment for hair growth.

Regular use of lavender essential oil may help alleviate chronic scalp conditions and improve overall scalp health.

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a versatile herbal plant whose essential oil is widely used for its therapeutic properties, including its ability to soothe an itchy scalp.

The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of the leaves and flowers, resulting in a fragrant, stimulating oil rich in compounds like camphor and cineole. It is known to improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can reduce dandruff and alleviate itchiness caused by dryness or irritation. When diluted properly with a carrier oil, rosemary essential oil can be safely applied to the scalp to provide a calming and refreshing effect.

Its natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties also make it effective in treating scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis.

4. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as blue gum eucalyptus, is a popular source of essential oil used for its therapeutic properties, including its ability to soothe an itchy scalp.

The essential oil contains compounds like cineole and limonene, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce scalp irritation and fungal infections. When diluted properly with a carrier oil, eucalyptus globulus oil can be applied topically to relieve itching and promote a healthier scalp environment. Its fresh, cooling aroma also has a calming effect, making it a favored choice in natural remedies for scalp care.

However, it is important to perform a patch test before use to avoid potential skin sensitivities.

5. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon bark, is a popular source of essential oils used for its therapeutic properties.

The essential oil derived from this plant contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. When applied topically, cinnamon essential oil can help alleviate an itchy scalp by reducing fungal infections and soothing irritation. It is often diluted with a carrier oil before use to prevent skin irritation.

However, individuals with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before applying it to the scalp.

6. Common teucrium (Teucrium marum)

Teucrium marum, also known as germander, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their antifungal and antiseptic properties, making them beneficial for soothing an itchy scalp.

The essential oils derived from this plant may help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections like dandruff, which often contribute to scalp irritation. These oils can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically to the scalp for a calming and therapeutic effect. Due to their natural potency, it is important to use them sparingly and consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Overall, Teucrium marum essential oils offer a natural alternative for managing itchiness and promoting a healthier scalp environment.

7. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a medicinal plant whose essential oil has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties.

The essential oil of ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which possess anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. When applied topically, ginger essential oil can help alleviate an itchy scalp by reducing irritation and fungal infections that often contribute to the condition. It is typically diluted with a carrier oil before use to prevent skin irritation.

Due to its soothing and purifying effects, ginger essential oil is a valuable natural remedy for those seeking relief from an itchy scalp.

8. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

These oils can help alleviate an itchy scalp by reducing irritation and soothing the skin. The essential oils from yarrow may also help regulate sebum production, making them beneficial for individuals with oily or sensitive scalps. When diluted properly, yarrow essential oil can be applied topically to the scalp as part of a natural remedy for dandruff and itchiness.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially if you have a history of allergies or skin sensitivities.

9. Pogostemon (Pogostemon cablin)

Pogostemon cablin, also known as patchouli, is a versatile herb commonly used in the production of essential oils, which can be beneficial for an itchy scalp.

The essential oil derived from this plant contains compounds like patchouli alcohol and sesquiterpenes, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritation and reduce dandruff. When applied topically, patchouli essential oil can help alleviate itchiness and promote a healthier scalp environment. However, it is important to dilute the oil with a carrier oil before use to prevent skin irritation.

This natural remedy is often used in aromatherapy and scalp treatments for its calming and therapeutic effects.

10. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a popular herb used in aromatherapy and natural remedies for its potent essential oils.

The essential oil derived from thyme contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties. These properties make thyme essential oil a beneficial remedy for itchy scalp caused by fungal infections or bacterial imbalances. When diluted properly, it can be applied topically to soothe irritation and promote scalp health.

Regular use of thyme essential oil may help reduce inflammation and provide relief from persistent scalp itchiness.