By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Dry Scalp
Herbal teas for dry scalp are a natural remedy that involves steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing brew that calms and moisturizes the scalp.
They help by providing anti-inflammatory properties, reducing flaking and itchiness, and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Examples include peppermint, chamomile, and rosemary teas, which can be consumed or used as a scalp treatment to improve scalp health and reduce dryness, ultimately improving one's confidence and overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for dry scalp, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Sesamum indicum
- 2. Urtica dioica
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Taraxacum officinale
- 5. Echinacea angustifolia
- 6. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 7. Cymbopogon citratus
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Thymus vulgaris
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for dry scalp?
- What ailments similar to dry scalp are treated with herbal teas?
1. Sesamum indicum
Sesamum indicum, also known as sesame, teas helps with dry scalp because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea is extracted from the seeds of the sesame plant, which are known to have moisturizing and soothing effects on the scalp. The antioxidants present in sesame tea help to nourish and protect the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.
Additionally, sesame tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to calm irritation and promote a healthy scalp environment, leading to a relief from dry scalp conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesamum indicum teas that help with dry scalp.
- Fatty acids: Fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, help with dry scalp by moisturizing and nourishing the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds, such as sesamol, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.
- Sesamin: Sesamin, a lignan present in Sesamum indicum, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy scalp, alleviating dry scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sesame used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Seeds: They are used due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm the scalp.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry scalp.
- Flowers: They are used for their cooling and soothing effects, which can help calm dry, itchy scalps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sesame for dry scalp.
- Measure 2 teaspoons of dried sesamum indicum flowers for every 8 ounces of water required.
- Heat 1 cup of water in a saucepan over medium heat to boiling point for 5 minutes.
- Add the measured sesamum indicum flowers to the boiling water and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container.
- Discard the solids and serve the tea hot or allow it to cool for later consumption.
2. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with dry scalp because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea has been found to stimulate blood flow and reduce irritation on the scalp, creating a healthy environment for hair growth. Urtica dioica's antifungal and antibacterial properties also help to control scalp infections, which can contribute to dryness and flakiness.
By soothing and calming the scalp, Urtica dioica tea promotes a balanced scalp ecosystem, leading to a healthier and more hydrated scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with dry scalp.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Urtica dioica, such as aucubin and isochlorogenic acid, help reduce inflammation and soothe dry scalp irritation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol in Urtica dioica have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm dry scalp redness and itching.
- Saponins: Saponins found in Urtica dioica, like urticine and 3,4-dioxygenated isomers, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, contributing to a healthy scalp environment and reducing dryness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are commonly used to make teas for dry scalp because they contain compounds like histamine and chlorogenic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
- Stems: Urtica dioica stems are also used to make teas for dry scalp as they contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can soothe and calm the scalp.
- Roots: Urtica dioica roots are another part used to make teas for dry scalp, as they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can promote healthy scalp conditions and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for dry scalp.
- Harvest a handful of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the early morning when they are at their highest potency level.
- Rinse the urtica dioica leaves and stems with cold filtered water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried urtica dioica leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove any solids.
- Let the tea cool to a comfortable temperature before drinking it within 30 minutes of preparation.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with dry scalp because of its soothing and nourishing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium. These nutrients help to moisturize and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and itching associated with dryness.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in aloe vera also promote healthy hair growth and improve scalp circulation, leading to a healthier and more balanced scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with dry scalp.
- Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone compound has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and flakiness associated with dry scalp.
- Saponins: These glycosides have emollient and moisturizing properties, which help lock in moisture and reduce dryness, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce redness, itching, and irritation caused by dry scalp, while also preventing infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: The gel inside Aloe vera leaves is commonly used due to its soothing and hydrating properties, which help to calm and moisturize the scalp.
- Leaves: The juice extracted from Aloe vera leaves is rich in vitamins and minerals, providing essential nutrients to promote healthy scalp growth and alleviate dryness.
- Leaves: The outer layer of Aloe vera leaves contains salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells from the scalp, reducing flakiness and itchiness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dry scalp.
- Gather 200ml of aloe vera gel from 2-3 aloe vera leaves that have been allowed to mature for 3-4 months.
- Combine the aloe vera gel with 1 liter of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large container to remove excess pulp and gel.
- Add a sweetener such as honey to taste and stir well to combine with the herbal tea.
- Serve the aloe vera tea warm or chilled and enjoy as a soothing digestive aid.
4. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with dry scalp because it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The tea's high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids promotes blood circulation to the scalp, reducing inflammation and itchiness. Additionally, dandelion's diuretic properties help to remove toxins and excess oil from the scalp, creating an environment conducive to healthy hair growth.
By soothing and balancing the scalp, dandelion tea can effectively alleviate dryness and promote a healthy, flake-free scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with dry scalp.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps alleviate dry scalp by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and itching associated with scalp conditions.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties, luteolin helps combat dry scalp by protecting the scalp from oxidative stress and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin, taraxasterol has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and protect the scalp from irritation and infection, addressing dry scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are often used to make teas due to their high content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that can help soothe and calm the scalp.
- Flowers: Taraxacum officinale flowers are commonly used to make teas because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that can help reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new hair.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are sometimes used to make teas because they contain sesquiterpenes and other compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy scalp environment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dry scalp.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in the early morning for optimal freshness and potency.
- Rinse the harvested taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale with 8 ounces of boiling water for a standard serving.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale tea and serve hot or chilled immediately after preparation.
5. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with dry scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The herbal tea can help reduce irritation and inflammation in the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth. Additionally, Echinacea angustifolia's moisturizing properties can help lock in moisture, soothing and calming the dry scalp. Its natural antifungal properties can also prevent the overgrowth of fungi that can contribute to dryness and itchiness.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for dry scalp issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with dry scalp.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides, particularly echinacoside, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and protect the scalp, reducing irritation and inflammation associated with dry scalp.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia, such as echinamine, may help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, promoting a healthy scalp environment and alleviating dry scalp symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation on the scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment and addressing dry scalp issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Roots: Used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Barks: Utilized for their antifungal and antibacterial properties to help combat fungal and bacterial infections causing dry scalp.
- Leaves: Employed for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for dry scalp.
- Gather 30-60 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia root and 1 teaspoon of dried mint leaves for added flavor.
- Boil 1 liter of water in a pot and bring to a rolling boil for 5 minutes.
- Add the dried echinacea angustifolia root to the boiling water and steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
- Discard the solids and let the tea cool to a comfortable temperature for consumption within 10 minutes.
6. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with dry scalp because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's essential oils, such as camphor and bornyl acetate, have been shown to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and flaking associated with dry scalp conditions. Additionally, rosemary's ability to improve blood circulation may help to nourish and stimulate the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing the appearance of dryness and itchiness.
This natural remedy provides relief and comfort to those suffering from dry scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with dry scalp.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps alleviate dry scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting skin hydration due to its antioxidant properties.
- Carnosic acid: A terpene that has been shown to inhibit the growth of Malassezia, a fungus that contributes to scalp irritation and dryness, thereby helping to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Bornyl acetate: A terpene that possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: Used in teas for dry scalp due to their antifungal and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and treat scalp irritations.
- Flowers: Utilized in teas for dry scalp because of their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that promote healthy scalp conditions.
- Stems: Used in teas for dry scalp due to their ability to stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth, thus helping to combat dry scalp issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for dry scalp.
- Harvest the rosmarinus officinalis leaves by cutting them with scissors in the morning when they are at their highest oil content.
- Rinse the harvested leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the plant surfaces.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of the dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves per 8 ounces of boiling water for the infusion.
- Steep the leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse.
- Strain the tea and discard the leaves to serve the rosmarinus officinalis tea hot or iced as desired.
7. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with dry scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The tea's high content of essential oils, particularly citral and geraniol, helps to soothe and calm irritated scalps, reducing redness and flakiness. Additionally, the tea's antiseptic properties help to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.
Regular consumption of lemongrass tea may promote a healthy scalp and reduce the appearance of dandruff and flaky skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with dry scalp.
- Citral: This terpene helps with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy scalp conditions through its antimicrobial properties.
- Limonene: A monoterpenoid compound, limonene has been shown to improve scalp health by reducing dandruff and promoting the growth of beneficial scalp microbiota.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound with antifungal properties, eugenol helps with dry scalp by inhibiting the growth of fungi that contribute to dandruff and other scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cymbopogon citratus are commonly used to make teas for dry scalp due to their high content of citral, a compound that helps to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Cymbopogon citratus are also used to make teas for dry scalp, as they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp conditions.
- Buds: The buds of Cymbopogon citratus are used to make teas for dry scalp, as they contain essential oils that help to stimulate hair growth and reduce dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for dry scalp.
- Harvest 20 fresh stalks of the plant by cutting them close to the ground using scissors or pruning shears.
- Rinse the harvested stalks under cold running water for 2 minutes to remove impurities.
- Chop the stalks into smaller pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter for 5 minutes.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped stalks in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the oils.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve and serve hot or chilled immediately.
8. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with dry scalp because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The menthol content in peppermint tea helps to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and itchiness. Additionally, peppermint tea's cooling sensation can help to reduce flaking and promote a healthy scalp environment.
The tea's ability to stimulate blood flow and improve circulation can also help to nourish the scalp and promote hair growth, making it a popular natural remedy for dry scalp issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with dry scalp.
- Menthol: Menthol helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp, providing relief from dryness and itchiness associated with dry scalp.
- Limonene: Limonene has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help control scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp environment, reducing dryness and flakiness.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation on the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing dryness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Stems: They contain menthone, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and promote blood flow to the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.
- Buds: They are also used, as they contain a high amount of menthol and menthone, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to relieve a dry scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dry scalp.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh or 10-20 grams of dried mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning.
- Clean the harvested plant material thoroughly by gently rinsing it with cold water for 5 minutes.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried plant material or 2 teaspoons of fresh plant material in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove the plant material.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before serving and consuming within 30 minutes.
9. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with dry scalp because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria that can contribute to dry scalp conditions. Additionally, thyme has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated scalp skin, promoting a healthy scalp environment and reducing dryness and flakiness.
This makes thyme tea a popular natural remedy for dry scalp issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with dry scalp.
- Thymol: Thymol has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help control the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp that can lead to dry scalp conditions.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and itching associated with dry scalp conditions.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the scalp from damage, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves of Thymus vulgaris are used to make teas for dry scalp due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Flowers: Thyme flowers are used to make teas for dry scalp as they possess anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and irritation on the scalp.
- Buds: Thyme buds are used to make teas for dry scalp due to their high concentration of essential oils, which have antimicrobial properties that help to control fungal and bacterial infections on the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dry scalp.
- Harvest 20 to 30 fresh thymus vulgaris leaves from the plant at dawn when the dew is still present.
- Rinse the thymus vulgaris leaves with filtered water to remove dirt and debris.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Allow the thymus vulgaris infusion to steep for 5 to 10 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the thymus vulgaris tea into a cup and serve hot or chilled within 30 minutes.
10. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with dry scalp because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's flavonoids, such as apigenin and luteolin, help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy blood flow to the scalp. Additionally, sage's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.
As a result, sage tea can help to promote a healthy, balanced scalp and alleviate dryness and itchiness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with dry scalp.
- Ursolic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation associated with dry scalp conditions.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenol antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the scalp from oxidative stress and promote a healthy scalp environment, reducing dryness and dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for dry scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help soothe and protect the scalp.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are used to create teas that promote hair growth and reduce inflammation, making them beneficial for dry scalp treatments.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for dry scalp.
- Gather 1/2 cup of dried salvia officinalis leaves and 1 quart of boiling water for steeping.
- Infuse 1 teaspoon of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Add honey to taste to sweeten the tea if desired for flavor enhancement.
- Allow the tea to steep for an additional 2-3 minutes to release more flavors.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for dry scalp?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with dry scalp is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and rosemary.
Peppermint tea helps to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation, while chamomile tea calms and cools the scalp, reducing redness and itchiness. Rosemary tea promotes blood circulation, which helps to stimulate hair growth and nourish the scalp. Drinking a combination of these teas can provide relief from dry scalp symptoms and promote a healthy scalp environment.
This blend can be consumed hot or cold, sweetened with honey or lemon to taste.
What ailments similar to dry scalp are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to dry scalp that are treated with herbal teas are skin issues such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and calendula have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.
These teas can be used topically as a compress or added to bath water for relief from dry, itchy skin.