10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Dry Scalp

Herbal tinctures for dry scalp are a natural solution to combat dry, itchy, and flaky skin on the scalp.

These potent liquid extracts are made by infusing herbs in water or alcohol, which helps to soothe and moisturize the scalp. Tinctures containing herbs like neem, lavender, and tea tree oil have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help to reduce dandruff, itchiness, and flakiness. By using herbal tinctures for dry scalp, individuals can experience improved hair growth, reduced irritation, and a healthier-looking head of hair.

For example, neem tincture has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp conditions, while lavender oil has calming effects that soothe itchy scalps.

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

1. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its soothing and moisturizing properties.

The aloe vera gel extracted from the plant contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that deeply nourish the scalp, calming irritation and flakiness. As it penetrates the skin, it hydrates the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness, while also promoting healthy hair growth.

By using an herbal aloe tincture on a regular basis, individuals with dry scalp can achieve a healthier, more balanced scalp environment that is better equipped to support overall hair health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a type of anthraquinone that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing redness and irritation associated with dry scalp.
• Aloe-vera-polysaccharides: These complex sugars have been shown to stimulate the production of ceramides, an essential component of the skin's barrier function, which can help lock in moisture and reduce dryness and flakiness on the scalp.
• Cinnamyl-alcohol: A phenolic compound found in Aloe vera, cinnamyl-alcohol has been reported to possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties, helping to control fungal infections and other microbial imbalances that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The gel from Aloe vera leaves is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help soothe and moisturize the scalp.
• Leaves: The extract from Aloe vera leaves also contains aloin, a compound that can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin cell growth on the scalp.
• Leaves: Aloe vera leaf extract has been shown to have anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, helping to control scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest mature aloe vera leaves from your garden or purchase from a local supplier weighing approximately 500g.
2. Wash the leaves thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any dirt or debris and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Chop the leaves into small pieces and macerate them in a 1:2 ratio with 95% ethanol for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from solids.
5. Store the aloe vera tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks to mature and age properly.

2. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, which combat the root causes of dryness and flakiness.

The tincture's oil extracts from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant deeply penetrate the scalp, soothing irritated skin and reducing inflammation. As a result, tea tree tinctures promote a healthy scalp environment, regulating oil production and preventing flakes from forming.

This natural remedy effectively treats dry scalp conditions, leaving hair feeling soft, smooth, and manageable.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: As an antimicrobial agent, cineole helps combat scalp infections and inflammation that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.
• Limonene: A natural solvent with antifungal properties, limonene helps reduce fungal growth on the scalp, which can cause irritation and dryness.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpenoid has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and irritation associated with dry scalp conditions, while also promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are the primary part used due to their high oil content, particularly cineole, which is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: Stems are also used, as they contain a similar composition of oils to the leaves, providing similar benefits for the scalp.
• Barks: Barks are occasionally used, as they contain some of the same therapeutic compounds as the leaves and stems, although in smaller amounts.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves of melaleuca alternifolia in the early morning when they are at their highest essential oil content.
2. Clean and dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven or with a food dehydrator to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Combine 1 part of the dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep it for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

3. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

The antiseptic qualities of lavender help to soothe and reduce redness, while also fighting off any underlying fungal or bacterial infections that may be contributing to the dryness. Additionally, lavender's moisturizing benefits can help to lock in moisture and calm the scalp, reducing flakiness and itchiness.

As a natural remedy, English lavender tinctures provide a gentle yet effective solution for soothing and treating dry scalp issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with dry scalp.

• Linalool: A terpene that helps with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate scalp irritation and itchiness.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene ester that contributes to the antiseptic and antifungal properties of Lavandula angustifolia, helping to control scalp infections and prevent further irritation.
• Lavandulol: A terpene that exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help combat scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp environment, reducing dryness and flakiness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for dry scalp.

• Leaves: They are used due to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm the scalp.
• Flowers: They are used due to their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healthy scalp conditions.
• Stems: They are used due to their ability to retain the plant's essential oils and provide a concentrated source of its therapeutic properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom for maximum potency.
2. Chop the harvested flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
3. Combine the chopped flowers with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

4. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The herb's essential oils stimulate blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy circulation and reducing flakiness. Additionally, rosemary tincture's antioxidant compounds help protect the scalp from environmental stressors and damage caused by styling products, leaving it feeling nourished and refreshed.

As a result, rosemary tinctures provide relief for dry, itchy scalps, promoting a healthy and balanced hair growth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps with dry scalp by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce redness and irritation associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Bornyl acetate: This terpene has antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections that may contribute to dry scalp, such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and protect the scalp from further irritation and infection, promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of antioxidants and essential oils that help soothe and moisturize the scalp.
• Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing scalp irritation and promoting healthy hair growth.
• Stems: Utilized for their ability to provide a cooling effect on the scalp, reducing itchiness and flakiness associated with dry scalp conditions.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the morning when they are at their most potent.
2. Clean and dry the rosmarinus officinalis leaves thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure quality.
3. Combine one part rosmarinus officinalis leaves with one part high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for four to six weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

5. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's natural compounds work together to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and flakiness associated with a dry scalp. Additionally, thyme's ability to stimulate blood flow promotes healthy hair growth by increasing oxygenation and nourishment to the scalp, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and manageable.

As a result, using herbal thyme tinctures can bring relief from dry scalp symptoms, promoting a healthy and vibrant head of hair.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: A phenolic compound that acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.
• Carvacrol: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated scalp skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with dry scalp.
• Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the scalp from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of thymol, an antifungal compound that helps combat scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm an itchy scalp, reducing dryness and irritation.
• Buds: Thyme buds are often used for their antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help eliminate scalp infections and promote a balanced scalp environment.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves from a pesticide-free area at dawn when dew is still present.
2. Chop the harvested thymus vulgaris leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped thymus vulgaris leaves with 50% vodka by volume in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and store in a cool dark place.

6. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated skin.

The herb's antifungal and antibacterial compounds help to reduce flaking, itchiness, and redness associated with a dry scalp. Additionally, sage's moisturizing properties help to lock in moisture and hydrate the scalp, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and healthy-looking.

Regular use of sage tincture can also promote healthy hair growth and improve overall scalp health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp, thus alleviating dry scalp symptoms.
• Salvianolic acid b: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties that help to protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy scalp conditions.
• Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce redness and irritation on the scalp, making it an effective remedy for dry scalp.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for dry scalp.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are the most commonly used part to make tinctures for a dry scalp due to their high concentration of essential oils that promote scalp health.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain a significant amount of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to soothe and protect the scalp from irritation and dryness.
• Buds: The buds of Salvia officinalis are rich in anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing redness and inflammation associated with a dry scalp.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-3 handfuls of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.
3. Combine 250-500 grams of dried salvia officinalis with 750-1000 ml of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the container every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate clean container discarding the solids.

7. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated skin.

The aloe-like substance in chamomile, apigenin, binds to skin cells, reducing redness and itching associated with dry scalp conditions. Additionally, chamomile's antifungal and antibacterial properties help regulate the scalp's natural balance, preventing fungal and bacterial overgrowth that can contribute to flaking and itchiness.

By promoting a healthy scalp environment, chamomile tinctures gently alleviate symptoms of dry scalp, leaving the scalp feeling calm, soothed, and revitalized.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with dry scalp.

• Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation and soothe itchy scalp, providing relief from dry scalp irritation.
• Bisabolol: Bisabolol is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to calm and protect the scalp from irritation and infection associated with dry scalp.
• Α-bisabolol oxide: α-Bisabolol oxide is a sesquiterpene that has antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to control the growth of microorganisms that can contribute to dry scalp conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for dry scalp.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high essential oil content, particularly chamazulene and apigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties for skin irritations.
• Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain a higher concentration of essential oils than the flowers and are often used to create a stronger tincture for addressing scalp conditions.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant also contain essential oils that can help soothe and calm the scalp, although they are less commonly used than the flowers and seeds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest mature flowers in their full bloom and dry them completely to preserve their medicinal properties for up to a year.
2. Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar for a strong tincture.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for at least 2-6 weeks to allow for extraction and steeping.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
5. Label and date the tincture bottle and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

8. Pelargonium graveolens

Geranium tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its remarkable ability to balance the scalp's natural oil production.

The antifungal and antibacterial properties of geranium tincture help to reduce dandruff and flaking, while its anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated scalps.

Additionally, geranium's regenerative properties promote healthy hair growth by stimulating blood flow to the scalp, resulting in a hydrated and balanced scalp that is better equipped to manage dryness and irritation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pelargonium graveolens tinctures that help with dry scalp.

• Geraniol: Helps with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin cell growth, while also exhibiting antifungal properties to combat scalp infections.
• Linalool: Contributes to soothing and calming the scalp, reducing irritation and redness associated with dry scalp conditions, and may also help to regulate the scalp's natural pH balance.
• Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits potent antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the scalp from oxidative stress and damage, while also reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of geranium used to make tinctures for dry scalp.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly geraniol and linalool, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help soothe and calm the scalp.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their fragrance and essential oils, which help to moisturize and nourish the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness.
• Stems: The stems are used for their essential oils, which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce irritation and promote healthy scalp conditions.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh pelargonium graveolens leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris.
2. Dry the plant material in a warm place for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
3. Use a coffee grinder to grind the dried material into a fine powder and store it in an airtight container.
4. Combine 250ml of 95% ethanol with the plant powder in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
5. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth to obtain the tincture.

9. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its invigorating properties that stimulate blood flow and soothe irritation.

The menthol in peppermint oil helps to loosen and remove flakes, reducing itchiness and discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with dry scalps.

As a result, peppermint tinctures can help to restore balance and health to the scalp, leaving it feeling cool, calm, and refreshed.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with dry scalp.

• Menthol: Menthol has a cooling effect on the scalp, which can help reduce inflammation and itchiness associated with dry scalp.
• Menthone: Menthone, a monoterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
• Mentha phenolic acids: Mentha phenolic acids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that 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 peppermint used to make tinctures for dry scalp.

• Leaves: They contain menthol and menthone, which help to cool and soothe the scalp, reducing itchiness and flakiness associated with dry scalp conditions.
• Stems: They are rich in antioxidants and menthol, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp circulation.
• Roots: They contain menthone and limonene, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help to control scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of the day.
2. Clean the leaves and flowers thoroughly with a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep 250 grams of the herb in 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove the plant material.
5. Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid and keep it in a cool place for up to 2 years.

10. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with dry scalp because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The tincture's antifungal and antibacterial compounds also help to combat infections that can contribute to flaking and itchiness. Additionally, Kansas coneflower is rich in antioxidants, which promote healthy hair growth and reduce oxidative stress.

By incorporating a Kansas coneflower tincture into your skincare routine, you can effectively tackle dry scalp issues and enjoy a healthier, more radiant mane.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with dry scalp.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help with dry scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting skin health, which can contribute to a more balanced scalp environment.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm an irritated scalp, potentially alleviating dryness and itchiness.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in this plant may support the immune system and promote skin integrity, which can help protect the scalp from damage and promote a healthy environment to combat dryness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for dry scalp.

• Roots: Roots are the primary part used for tinctures due to their high concentration of echinacoside and alkaloids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties beneficial for scalp health.
• Leaves: Leaves are also commonly used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm dry scalp irritations.
• Stems: Stems are another part often used for their purported antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in combating scalp infections and promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried echinacea angustifolia roots in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
3. Combine 1 part of chopped roots with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

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

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

Tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties reduce flaking and itching, while neem oil's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the scalp. Rosemary oil's stimulating properties promote blood flow, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing dryness. Mix equal parts of each oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, and apply it to the scalp to experience the benefits of a healthy, flake-free scalp.

Regular use can lead to improved scalp health.

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

Ailments similar to dry scalp that are treated with herbal tinctures are eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

These skin conditions often exhibit symptoms of flakiness, redness, and itchiness, which can be soothed by the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties found in herbal tinctures. Certain herbs such as aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil are commonly used to calm irritated skin and promote healing.

By applying these tinctures topically or consuming them orally, individuals can experience relief from symptoms and improve overall skin health.