10 Best Herbal Creams For Dry Scalp

Herbal creams for dry scalp are natural topical treatments that combine the healing properties of herbs with moisturizing ingredients to soothe and calm dry, itchy scalp conditions.

They help by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy hair growth. Examples include creams containing aloe vera, tea tree oil, and coconut oil, which can be found in products like Neem and Bhringaraj creams.

These creams can improve lives by reducing scalp irritation, promoting hair growth, and giving users confidence in their appearance.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for dry scalp, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with dry scalp because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in tea tree oil, such as terpinen-4-ol, inhibit the growth of fungi and yeast that can cause irritation and flaking on the scalp.

By reducing inflammation and preventing fungal overgrowth, tea tree creams create an environment that promotes healthy scalp function and reduces dryness, itchiness, and flakiness, helping to alleviate dry scalp symptoms and promote a healthier scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with dry scalp.

• Terpinen-4-ol: This compound exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce fungal and bacterial growth on the scalp, alleviating dry scalp conditions.
• Cineole: Cineole's antifungal and antiseptic properties help to soothe and calm an itchy scalp, while also reducing inflammation and promoting healthy scalp conditions.
• Melaleuca alternifolia oil: This compound has potent antifungal properties, which help to control fungal infections on the scalp, such as dandruff, and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help soothe and treat dry scalp conditions.
• Stems: Utilized for their essential oils, which contain compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healthy scalp skin.
• Barks: Employed for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and protect dry scalp skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for dry scalp.

1. Infuse 250g of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves in 1l of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
3. Combine 200g of the infused oil with 100g of beeswax and 50g of candelilla wax.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes until the beeswax and candelilla wax melt.
5. Pour the mixture into a mold or a glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

2. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, creams helps with dry scalp because of its exceptional soothing and moisturizing properties.

The essential oils present in lemongrass creams have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help to reduce irritation and flaking on the scalp. It also helps to balance the scalp's natural pH, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.

Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties lock in moisture, keeping the scalp hydrated and comfortable, thus providing relief from dryness and itchiness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus creams that help with dry scalp.

• Limonene: A terpene that helps with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy scalp environment, thereby alleviating itchiness and flakiness associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Citrral: A phenolic compound that possesses antifungal properties, helping to control fungal infections that can contribute to dry scalp conditions and promote a balanced scalp microbiome.
• Zingiberene: A sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing redness and discomfort associated with dry scalp conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly limonene and geraniol, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties beneficial for dry scalp treatment.
• Rhyzomes: They are used as they contain active compounds like citral and geraniol that help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.
• Roots: They are used because of their rich content of essential oils and nutrients that promote scalp health, reduce inflammation, and prevent fungal infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for dry scalp.

1. Gather 100g of dried cymbopogon citratus leaves and 50g of beeswax for this recipe.
2. Infuse 200ml of jojoba oil with the dried cymbopogon citratus leaves for 2-3 weeks.
3. Combine 100g of shea butter and 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Mix the infused jojoba oil with 20g of vitamin e oil and the combined shea butter and coconut oil mixture.
5. Pour the final mixture into a container and let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with dry scalp because of its natural soothing properties and rich moisturizing benefits.

It contains compounds like glycoproteins and vitamins A, C, and E that help to nourish and hydrate the scalp, reducing flakiness and itchiness. The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera also help to calm irritated skin and promote healthy hair growth, making it an effective treatment for dry scalp conditions.

Regular use of aloe vera creams can leave the scalp feeling smooth and refreshed.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with dry scalp.

• Saponins: Saponins help with dry scalp by creating a soothing and protective barrier on the skin, reducing inflammation and irritation that can lead to dryness and flakiness.
• Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, and E in Aloe vera creams help with dry scalp by promoting skin cell turnover, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides like Glucans in Aloe vera creams help with dry scalp by promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the growth of new skin cells to replace damaged or dead skin.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: Rich in gel, which provides moisturizing and soothing properties to help calm and hydrate the dry scalp.
• Seeds: Contain fatty acids and vitamins that promote skin and scalp health, reducing inflammation and itchiness.
• (optional) stems: Contain aloe-emodin, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the scalp.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dry scalp.

1. Gather 1 cup of aloe vera gel from mature leaves and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a bowl.
2. Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler to melt.
3. Combine 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil and 2 tablespoons of honey in the melted mixture.
4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and 1 teaspoon of lavender essential oil into the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes to an hour.

4. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with dry scalp because of its decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The camphor and eucalyptol present in Eucalyptus globulus creams help to reduce inflammation and itching associated with a dry scalp. The cooling sensation provided by the cream helps to calm the scalp, promoting relaxation and reducing flakiness.

Regular application of Eucalyptus globulus creams can help to soothe and moisturize the scalp, leading to a healthy and balanced scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with dry scalp.

• Cineole: This terpene acts as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing redness and itchiness associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids help protect the scalp from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting a healthy scalp environment and reducing the symptoms of dry scalp.
• Tannins: These phenolic compounds possess astringent properties, which help to reduce oil production and minimize flaking, thereby providing relief from dry scalp conditions and promoting a balanced scalp environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe and calm a dry scalp.
• Barks: Barks are used because they contain a high amount of salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells from the scalp, promoting healthy scalp growth.
• Buds: Buds are used due to their rich content of essential oils, including eucalyptol, which provides anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to help calm and soothe a dry, itchy scalp.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for dry scalp.

1. Gather 20 grams of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves and 500 grams of a base cream with a ph level between 4.5 and 5.5.
2. Infuse 200 milliliters of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil with the dried eucalyptus globulus leaves for 4 to 6 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil and combine it with the base cream and add 2 milliliters of vitamin e oil as an antioxidant.
4. Mix the ingredients well and add 5 milliliters of a natural preservative such as phenonip to extend the shelf life.
5. Fill the mixture into sterile containers and label them properly before storing them in a cool and dry place for up to 12 months.

5. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, creams helps with dry scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.

The herb's essential oils, particularly camphor, borneol, and bornyl acetate, have been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. Additionally, rosemary's ability to improve blood circulation and promote a healthy scalp environment can help to reduce flaking and itchiness associated with dry scalp conditions.

This natural remedy can provide relief and promote a healthy, balanced scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis creams that help with dry scalp.

• Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene helps with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, rosmarinic acid helps soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and itchiness associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing the growth of fungi and bacteria that can contribute to dry scalp conditions, promoting a balanced scalp ecosystem.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high content of antioxidants and essential oils that help soothe and calm dry scalp irritations.
• Flowers: Flowers are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce irritation and promote a healthy scalp.
• Stems: Stems are used for their high content of rosmarinic acid, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and promote blood flow to the scalp.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for dry scalp.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the early morning when the dew is still present.
2. Steam distill the leaves for 2 hours to extract the essential oil with a yield of 2 percent.
3. Mix 1/4 cup of distilled water with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Combine the essential oil with 1/2 cup of distilled water and add it to the mixture from step 3.
5. Whisk the mixture for 10 minutes and pour it into a container for 30 minutes cooling time before use.

6. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with dry scalp because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

The thymol content in thyme cream creates an environment that is unfavorable for fungal growth, thereby reducing irritation and inflammation associated with dry scalp. Additionally, thyme's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and flakiness. By promoting a healthy scalp environment, thyme creams can help alleviate dry scalp symptoms and promote a balanced scalp ecosystem.

This makes it a popular natural remedy for dry scalp issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with dry scalp.

• Thymol: Thymol, a monoterpene compound, has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help to control the growth of fungi and bacteria that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, another monoterpene compound, has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe dry, itchy scalps.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the scalp from damage, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are used due to their antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are used for their antioxidant and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation on the scalp, while also promoting a balanced scalp pH.
• Barks: Although less common, thyme bark is sometimes used for its antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections and other scalp conditions that may contribute to dryness and irritation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dry scalp.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves at peak potency in the morning for best results.
2. Dry the fresh leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1/4 cup of dried thymus vulgaris leaves with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a saucepan.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 2 hours while gently stirring every 30 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and store the herbal cream in a cool dark place.

7. Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, creams helps with dry scalp because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in wormwood cream, such as thujone and camphor, soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and flaking. The cream's anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce redness and swelling, promoting a healthy scalp environment. By addressing the underlying causes of dry scalp, wormwood cream can help to alleviate symptoms and promote a balanced scalp ecosystem.

This leads to healthier and more manageable hair.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium creams that help with dry scalp.

• Thujone: Thujone is a terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and itching associated with dry scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
• Cineol: Cineol is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and protect the scalp from irritation and infection, reducing dryness and flakiness.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce redness, itching, and irritation associated with dry scalp, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp ecosystem.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: Known for their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm the scalp.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing scalp irritation and promoting healthy skin.
• Stems: Contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote hair growth, addressing dry scalp issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for dry scalp.

1. Extract 20 grams of artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers in a 1:2 ratio with jojoba oil for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids immediately.
3. Combine 100 grams of beeswax with 50 grams of shea butter and melt the mixture in a double boiler for 30 minutes.
4. Add 20 grams of the artemisia absinthium infusion to the melted wax mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify completely.

8. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with dry scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The cream soothes and calms the scalp, reducing irritation and redness associated with dryness. The natural antibacterial compounds in Calendula help to combat scalp infections, promoting a healthy scalp environment. Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to hydrate the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness, leading to a healthier and more balanced scalp.

This results in a reduced appearance of dandruff and other scalp irritations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with dry scalp.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm an itchy, irritated dry scalp.
• Flavonoids: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, Quercetin can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin cell growth, contributing to a reduction in dry scalp symptoms.
• Carotenoids: This antioxidant can help protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, promoting a healthy environment that can help alleviate dry scalp conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Flowers: They are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm the scalp.
• Leaves: They are used for their moisturizing and emollient properties, which help to hydrate and soften the scalp.
• Seeds: They are used for their oil content, which is rich in fatty acids and helps to nourish and protect the scalp.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry scalp.

1. Harvest calendula flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately to preserve their medicinal properties.
2. Combine 100 grams of dried calendula flowers with 500 milliliters of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally, to infuse the oil.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
5. Mix the infused oil with beeswax and a small amount of vitamin e oil to create a smooth and stable cream.

9. Sesamum indicum

Sesamum indicum, also known as sesame, creams helps with dry scalp because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream's nourishing and moisturizing ingredients deeply penetrate the scalp, soothing itchiness and reducing flakiness. Sesame oil's high linoleic acid content helps to lock in moisture, hydrating the scalp and promoting a healthy scalp environment. This natural remedy gently calms irritation, leaving the scalp feeling smooth and comfortable, perfect for those struggling with dry, irritated scalps.

Regular use can lead to improved scalp health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesamum indicum creams that help with dry scalp.

• Sesamol: It helps with dry scalp by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and irritation associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Sesamin: This lignan constituent helps with dry scalp by promoting blood circulation to the scalp, reducing dandruff and flaking associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Fatty acids: These help with dry scalp by providing moisturizing and emollient properties, soothing and hydrating the scalp to reduce dryness and itchiness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sesame used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Seeds: The seeds are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which help to soothe and moisturize the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.
• Leaves: The leaves contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm and soothe the scalp, reducing irritation and promoting healthy hair growth.
• Seeds: Sesame seeds also contain natural humectants that help to lock in moisture, leaving the scalp feeling soft and hydrated.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sesame for dry scalp.

1. Harvest 100g of dried sesamum indicum flowers and leave them to steep in 500ml of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids retaining the oil for further processing.
3. Mix 50g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter with 100ml of the infused oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes stirring occasionally until the beeswax and shea butter have melted.
5. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool and solidify before scooping into containers for use.

10. Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with dry scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The cream's main active ingredient, methyl salicylate, helps to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing flakiness and itchiness associated with dry scalp. Additionally, Gaultheria procumbens contains salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the scalp, removing dead skin cells and promoting a healthy scalp environment.

This natural combination helps to alleviate dry scalp symptoms, promoting a smooth and comfortable scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with dry scalp.

• Salicin: It helps with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe an irritated scalp.
• Methyl salicylate: It helps with dry scalp by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling, and promoting blood flow to the scalp, which can help to alleviate dryness and itchiness.
• Gaultherin: It helps with dry scalp by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect the scalp from damage, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for dry scalp.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used due to their rich content of tannins, which help to soothe and protect the scalp.
• Roots: The roots are often used because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce irritation and promote healing on the scalp.
• Barks: The barks are sometimes used as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that can help to moisturize and calm the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for dry scalp.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in mid-summer when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the harvested gaultheria procumbens in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
3. Steep 2 tablespoons of dried gaultheria procumbens in 8 ounces of jojoba oil for 2 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids in 10 minutes.
5. Whip 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter for 5 minutes.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dry scalp?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with dry scalp is a blend of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem.

Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that combat dandruff and itchiness. Aloe vera soothes and hydrates the scalp, reducing inflammation and flakiness.

Neem, rich in antioxidants, helps to regulate the scalp's natural oil production and prevent further dryness. Applying a mixture of these three herbal creams can provide long-lasting relief and promote a healthy scalp.

Regular use can also prevent future dry scalp issues.

What ailments similar to dry scalp are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to dry scalp that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and itching associated with these conditions.

Additionally, herbal creams may be used to treat skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and seborrheic keratoses, offering natural alternatives to traditional treatments.