By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Frizzy Hair
Herbal decoctions for frizzy hair are liquid extracts made by infusing herbs in water, which can be used as a natural treatment to tame and smooth out unruly locks.
These decoctions help to balance the scalp's natural pH, reduce frizz, and add shine to dull hair. Examples of herbal decoctions that benefit frizzy hair include peppermint, rosemary, and lavender, which can be used individually or in combination to create a customized blend.
By incorporating these herbal remedies into their daily routine, individuals with frizzy hair can enjoy smoother, more manageable tresses that require less styling products and give them increased confidence to take on the day.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for frizzy hair, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 2. Urtica dioica
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Cymbopogon citratus
- 5. Matricaria chamomilla
- 6. Thymus vulgaris
- 7. Calendula officinalis
- 8. Equisetum arvense
- 9. Artemisia absinthium
- 10. Lavandula angustifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for frizzy hair?
- What ailments similar to frizzy hair are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with frizzy hair because it promotes healthy scalp circulation, which in turn enhances follicle function.
The herb's antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties also help to strengthen hair strands, reducing breakage and tangles. Additionally, rosemary's astringent qualities can help to balance the pH of the scalp, reducing frizz-causing moisture buildup.
Regular use of rosemary decoctions as a hair rinse or treatment can leave hair looking sleek, smooth, and manageable, with a healthy shine.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce frizz by its ability to stabilize and protect the hair cuticle, leading to smoother and more manageable hair.
- Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene that may help reduce frizz by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the degradation of hair proteins, resulting in stronger and less prone to frizz.
- Bornyl acetate: A terpene that may help reduce frizz by its antioxidant properties, which can help protect the hair from environmental stressors and damage caused by free radicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: Rosmarinus officinalis leaves are rich in antioxidants and essential oils that help to smooth and tame frizzy hair.
- Flowers: The flowers of Rosmarinus officinalis are a good source of antioxidants and can help to reduce frizz and add shine to the hair.
- Stems: The stems of Rosmarinus officinalis contain a high amount of rosmarinic acid, which is known to help reduce frizz and add moisture to the hair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for frizzy hair.
- Gather 1 tablespoon of dried rosmarinus officinalis and add to a small saucepan.
- Boil 8 ounces of water in the saucepan for 5 minutes over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes to release the flavors.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a cup to separate the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool before serving or storing in the refrigerator.
2. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with frizzy hair because it richly nourishes and moisturizes the scalp and hair, leaving locks soft, silky, and manageable.
The antioxidants and vitamins in stinging nettle help to repair damaged cuticles, reducing frizz and flyaways. Additionally, its natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe an itchy scalp, allowing for a healthy environment for hair growth.
As a result, frizzy hair becomes tamer, more manageable, and looks healthier with regular use of stinging nettle decoctions as part of your hair care routine.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Saponins: Saponins may help with frizzy hair by creating a protective barrier on the hair shaft, reducing moisture loss and preventing damage that leads to frizz.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic and sinapic acids, have antioxidant properties that can protect the hair from environmental stressors and oxidative damage, potentially reducing frizz.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids, like berberine, may help with frizzy hair by reducing inflammation in the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth, and protecting the hair from damage caused by inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used due to their high content of antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help to nourish and protect the hair.
- Roots: The roots are used for their rich mineral content, including silica, which helps to strengthen and smooth the hair, reducing frizz and breakage.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used for their high content of mucilage, a natural emollient that helps to moisturize and smooth the hair, reducing frizz and flyaways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for frizzy hair.
- Harvest urtica dioica leaves and stems in early spring or late summer when they are at their highest potency.
- Clean and chop 30-60 grams of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems into small pieces to release their medicinal properties.
- Combine chopped urtica dioica with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil at high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the decoction for 10-30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly to enhance its potency.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove any remaining plant material.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with frizzy hair because they provide an intense moisturizing treatment that smooths and tames unruly locks.
The antioxidants and vitamins present in aloe vera help to lock in moisture, reducing frizz and flyaways while leaving hair soft and silky to the touch. Additionally, aloe's natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe the scalp, calming irritation and promoting healthy hair growth.
Regular use of herbal aloe decoctions can lead to manageable, sleek, and shiny hair that looks great and feels amazing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Glucomannans: These polysaccharides help to lock in moisture and reduce frizz by forming a protective film on the hair shaft, preventing moisture loss and tangles.
- Aloin: A phenolic compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, aloin helps to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and frizz caused by dryness and damage.
- Vitamins and minerals: These nutrients help to strengthen and nourish the hair, reducing breakage and frizz by promoting healthy hair growth and improving the hair's natural moisture balance.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part for hair decoctions due to their high concentration of aloin and other compounds that help to soothe and calm frizzy hair.
- Gel from leaves: The gel extracted from the leaves of Aloe vera is widely used for its moisturizing properties, which help to hydrate and smooth out frizzy hair.
- Aloe vera juice from leaves: The juice extracted from the leaves of Aloe vera is another popular part used to make decoctions for frizzy hair due to its ability to nourish and protect the hair from damage.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for frizzy hair.
- Select high-quality aloe vera leaves with thick green skin and firm texture weighing about 2 pounds.
- Harvest the leaves by cutting them from the plant using a sharp knife or gardening tool.
- Wash the leaves thoroughly in cold running water for about 5 minutes to remove dirt and impurities.
- Crush the leaves using a juicer or blender to release their gel and juice for about 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to extract the clear liquid for about 10 minutes.
4. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass decoctions helps with frizzy hair because of its unique properties that work to tame and smooth the hair cuticle.
The antibacterial and antifungal compounds in lemongrass help to reduce product buildup and purify the scalp, allowing for a healthier environment for hair growth. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties soothe the hair follicles, reducing frizz and flyaways, leaving hair feeling soft, silky, and manageable.
Regular use of lemongrass decoctions can lead to a reduction in frizz, adding shine and luster to unruly locks.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Limonene: It acts as an antifungal agent, helping to control scalp infections that may contribute to frizzy hair.
- Citrral: As a natural solvent, it helps in removing dirt and product buildup from the hair and scalp, leading to smoother, less frizzy hair.
- Β-caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe an irritated scalp and reduce frizz.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly limonene, which helps to smooth and control frizzy hair.
- Rhyzomes: They are utilized for their citral content, which has properties that help to balance the scalp's pH and reduce frizz.
- Stems: They are often included in decoctions due to their ability to help strengthen hair follicles and reduce frizz caused by hair loss or breakage.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for frizzy hair.
- Harvest 30g of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems from a clean environment.
- Wash the harvested cymbopogon citratus in cold running water for 5 minutes to remove dirt.
- Chop the cleaned cymbopogon citratus into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped cymbopogon citratus in 200ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile decoctions helps with frizzy hair because it calms the scalp and soothes dryness.
The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile reduce irritation and itching, allowing for a healthier scalp environment that promotes smoother locks. As an added bonus, chamomile's natural antiseptic and antifungal properties help to regulate sebum production, reducing frizz-causing oil buildup on the hair surface.
By using chamomile decoctions as a pre-shampoo treatment or as a leave-in conditioner, you can tame unruly strands and achieve a more manageable, silky texture.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid compound that helps to reduce frizz by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the oxidation of lipids, thereby maintaining the integrity of hair cuticles and reducing moisture loss.
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol that helps to calm and soothe the scalp, reducing irritation and inflammation that can contribute to frizzy hair, while also providing a protective barrier against environmental stressors.
- Matricarin: A sesquiterpene lactone that helps to reduce frizz by inhibiting the activity of keratinases, enzymes that break down keratin proteins in hair, leading to frizz and unmanageability.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound that soothes and calms the scalp.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antioxidant properties, which help to reduce frizz by protecting hair from environmental stress.
- Seeds: They are used due to their ability to stimulate hair growth and improve the overall health of the scalp, reducing frizz and promoting smooth hair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for frizzy hair.
- Harvest 10-15 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from a trusted source.
- Clean the flowers thoroughly to remove any debris or contaminants immediately.
- Combine the cleaned flowers with 200ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse slowly.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the final herbal liquid.
6. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme decoctions helps with frizzy hair because its antifungal and antibacterial properties help to soothe an itchy scalp, reducing dandruff and flakiness that can contribute to frizz.
The decoction's moisturizing qualities also nourish the hair follicles, leaving strands soft and silky.
Additionally, thyme's natural astringent properties help to tighten the cuticle of the hair, reducing volume and adding shine, resulting in a smoother, more manageable hairstyle that is less prone to frizz.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound found in Thymus vulgaris, can help reduce frizz by acting as an antifungal agent, preventing the growth of fungi that can lead to hair damage and frizz.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol present in Thymus vulgaris, may help to reduce frizz by possessing antioxidant properties, which can help protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors.
- Cineole: Cineole, a terpenic compound found in Thymus vulgaris, can help to reduce frizz by acting as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent, which can help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and contributing to healthier, less frizzy hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: Used due to their high antioxidant and antifungal properties, which help to balance the scalp's pH and reduce frizz.
- Stems: Employed for their astringent properties, which help to tighten the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and adding shine.
- Buds: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help to calm an itchy scalp and reduce frizz.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for frizzy hair.
- Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in the morning when the dew is still present on the plants.
- Dry the fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the thymus vulgaris leaves to release their active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids to prepare a ready-to-use drink.
7. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with frizzy hair because its antifungal and antibacterial properties gently soothe the scalp, reducing irritation and itchiness that can contribute to frizz.
The decoction's antioxidants also help protect the hair shaft from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to dryness and unruliness.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in pot marigold help calm the cuticle layer of the hair, leaving it smooth, silky, and manageable.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help to lock moisture in the hair shaft, reducing frizz and adding shine by forming a protective barrier against humidity and environmental stressors.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals, reducing damage to the hair cuticle and preventing frizz-causing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and itchiness that can contribute to frizzy hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Flowers: The flowers are commonly used to make decoctions for frizzy hair due to their rich content of fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that help to nourish and moisturize hair.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their ability to provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help to protect hair from damage and promote healthy hair growth.
- Seeds: The seeds are sometimes used to make decoctions for frizzy hair due to their high content of fatty acids and vitamins, which can help to nourish and moisturize hair, reducing frizz and improving hair texture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for frizzy hair.
- Harvest the fresh or dried flowers at the peak of their bloom for optimal potency.
- Measure out 1 tablespoon of dried flowers or 2 tablespoons of fresh flowers for every cup of water.
- Combine the flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
8. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail decoctions helps with frizzy hair because of its unique ability to strengthen and repair damaged hair follicles.
The high silica content in horsetail helps to fortify hair strands, reducing breakage and frizz caused by rough cuticles. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties in horsetail soothe the scalp, reducing irritation and dryness that can lead to frizzy locks.
By using a horsetail decoction as a pre-shampoo treatment or hair mask, you can achieve smooth, silky, and manageable hair that's less prone to frizz and flyaways.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Silica: Silica in Equisetum arvense helps with frizzy hair by strengthening hair follicles and improving hair texture, reducing the appearance of frizz and flyaways.
- Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds in Equisetum arvense have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect hair from damage and reduce frizz caused by environmental stressors and heat styling.
- Saponins: Saponins in Equisetum arvense may help with frizzy hair by creating a protective barrier on the hair shaft, reducing moisture loss and preventing frizz and breakage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Roots: Equisetum arvense roots are used due to their high content of saponins, which help to cleanse and soothe the scalp.
- Leaves: Equisetum arvense leaves are used because they contain anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to calm frizzy hair and reduce irritation.
- Rhyzomes: Equisetum arvense rhyzomes are used as they are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the hair from damage and promote healthy growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for frizzy hair.
- Harvest fresh equisetum arvense stems to a maximum of 30 grams by cutting them just above ground level.
- Cut the harvested stems into small pieces and dry them for 24 hours at 30 degrees celsius temperature.
- Measure out 2 grams of dried equisetum arvense per 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 10 minutes then reduce heat and simmer for an additional 20 minutes at 95 degrees celsius.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean container for use.
9. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood decoctions helps with frizzy hair because of its natural ability to balance the scalp's pH levels, reducing excess oil production and tightening cuticles.
The astringent properties of wormwood also help to absorb moisture, leaving the hair shaft smoother and more manageable. Additionally, wormwood's antifungal and antibacterial properties can help combat dandruff and other scalp issues that contribute to frizz.
By incorporating wormwood into your hair care routine, you can achieve a sleeker, less frizzy look with reduced flyaways.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Thujone: Thujone has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe the scalp and reduce irritation that can contribute to frizzy hair.
- Volatile oils: The volatile oils present in Artemisia absinthium, such as camphor, borneol, and pinene, have antimicrobial properties that can help control scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp environment, leading to less frizzy hair.
- Absinthin: Absinthin has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals and reduce frizz by maintaining the cuticle's integrity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties that help to control frizz and add shine to hair.
- Stems: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing frizz.
- Roots: They are used due to their ability to promote hair growth, reduce frizz, and add strength to hair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for frizzy hair.
- Harvest fresh artemisia absinthium leaves and stems in the early morning or late evening when the plant is at its highest potency.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content and preserve medicinal properties.
- Chop 2-3 teaspoons of dried artemisia absinthium into small pieces to increase surface area for decoction.
- Steep the chopped plant material in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to release active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.
10. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender decoctions helps with frizzy hair because its unique properties help to smooth and tame unruly locks.
The antifungal and antibacterial agents in lavender work to soothe an irritated scalp, reducing flaking and dandruff that can contribute to frizz. Additionally, the calming effects of lavender oil help to reduce stress and tension, which can also cause hair to become brittle and prone to frizz.
By incorporating English lavender decoctions into your hair care routine, you can achieve a softer, smoother, and more manageable mane.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with frizzy hair.
- Linalool: This terpene helps reduce frizz by smoothing hair cuticles and improving hair's overall texture.
- Linalyl acetate: As a component of the lavender oil, it has a calming effect on the scalp, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy scalp environment that aids in reducing frizz.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antioxidant properties that help protect hair from damage caused by free radicals, leading to smoother and less frizzy hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for frizzy hair.
- Leaves: Used for their antifungal properties to help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing frizz.
- Flowers: Used for their calming and antiseptic properties to help reduce frizz and add shine to hair.
- Stems: Used for their astringent and antifungal properties to help balance the scalp's pH and reduce frizz.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for frizzy hair.
- Gather 20g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and store them in a cool dry place.
- Combine the dried flowers with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool before transferring it to a dark glass bottle for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for frizzy hair?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with frizzy hair is a blend of neem, amla, and brahmi.
Neem helps to purify the scalp and reduce dandruff, while amla promotes healthy hair growth and reduces frizz. Brahmi, also known as gotu kola, soothes and calms the scalp, reducing inflammation and promoting a smooth, silky texture.
Mix equal parts of each decoction and apply it to your hair for 30 minutes before shampooing for optimal results and a frizz-free mane.
What ailments similar to frizzy hair are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to frizzy hair that are treated with herbal decoctions are conditions characterized by dryness, brittleness, and lack of moisture.
These include eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, which are often alleviated by the anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties of herbs such as aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula.
Additionally, herbal decoctions can help soothe and calm irritated skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and burns, promoting healthy, hydrated skin.