By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Itchy Scalp
Herbal creams for itchy scalp are topical treatments containing plant extracts that help soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
These creams work by reducing inflammation, killing fungal and bacterial infections, and promoting a healthy scalp environment. Examples include creams with aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile, which have been shown to provide relief from itchiness, redness, and flakiness.
By using these creams, individuals can alleviate discomfort and enjoy improved scalp health, leading to increased confidence and a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for itchy scalp, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Urtica dioica
- 3. Melissa officinalis
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Sesamum indicum
- 6. Camellia sinensis
- 7. Artemisia absinthium
- 8. Echinacea angustifolia
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Tilia platyphyllos
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for itchy scalp?
- What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal creams?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help to calm irritation and reduce redness on the scalp. Additionally, aloe vera creams can help to lock in moisture, relieving dryness and itchiness.
It can also promote a healthy scalp environment, allowing hair to grow strong and healthy while minimizing the occurrence of itchy scalp conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Polysaccharides: They help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and itching associated with conditions like dandruff and eczema.
- Saponins: These natural compounds have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help control the growth of yeast and fungi that can contribute to scalp irritation and itchiness.
- Vitamins and minerals: They possess antioxidant properties that help protect the scalp from damage, promote skin cell regeneration, and reduce inflammation, ultimately alleviating itchiness and promoting a healthy scalp.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe vera for skincare products, including creams for itchy scalp, due to their high content of soothing and moisturizing compounds like aloe-emodin and aloin.
- Gel from the leaves: Specifically, the clear gel extracted from the leaves is used for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Aloe vera extract from the leaves: The extract from the leaves is also used, as it contains a high concentration of active compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for itchy scalp.
- Extract 20 ounces of aloe vera gel from 3 to 4 aloe vera leaves using a knife or spoon.
- Combine 1/4 cup of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of beeswax in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until the beeswax melts.
- Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to the melted beeswax mixture.
- Pour the aloe vera gel into the saucepan with the melted mixture and stir until well combined.
2. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb contains compounds like flavonoids and saponins that help to calm and reduce inflammation on the scalp, thereby alleviating itchiness and discomfort.
Additionally, stinging nettle creams often contain other ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera that further enhance their soothing and moisturizing effects, making them an effective natural remedy for itchy scalp conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the itching and inflammation caused by an itchy scalp.
- Phenolic compounds: These flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects, which can help alleviate itching and soothe the scalp.
- Steroids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation, itching, and irritation on the scalp.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used to make creams for an itchy scalp due to their high content of anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used to make creams for an itchy scalp because they contain compounds that help to soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are also used to make creams for an itchy scalp, as they possess anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce itching and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for itchy scalp.
- Gather 30g of fresh urtica dioica leaves and 200ml of oil with a melting point around 35°c for infusing.
- Infuse the urtica dioica leaves in the oil for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- Mix the infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at 60°c to 70°c for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
3. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its soothing and antifungal properties.
The herb contains rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory effects that calm irritated skin and reduce redness. Additionally, Melissa officinalis has antimicrobial properties that help combat fungal infections, such as dandruff and ringworm, that can cause itchy scalp.
By using Melissa officinalis creams, individuals can experience relief from itchy scalp and promote a healthy scalp environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Linalool: A terpene, linalool has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm the itchy scalp, reducing irritation and redness.
- Roscavin: A phenolic compound, roscavin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce inflammation and itching associated with scalp conditions, promoting healthy scalp skin.
- Limonene: A terpene, limonene has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat fungal and bacterial infections causing scalp itchiness, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing itchy scalps.
- Roots: The roots contain bioactive compounds that help to calm and reduce inflammation, providing relief from itchy scalp conditions.
- Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis have been used in traditional medicine to treat skin and scalp issues, including itchiness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for itchy scalp.
- Infuse 50g of melissa officinalis leaves in 500ml of jojoba oil for 2 hours under low heat.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding solids.
- Combine the strained oil with 50g of beeswax and 20g of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture under gentle heat for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until beeswax and shea butter melt.
- Allow the mixture to cool and solidify completely before transferring it to a storage container.
4. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream calms and soothes the skin, reducing irritation and redness associated with itchy scalps. The plant's natural antifungal and antibacterial properties help combat scalp infections and conditions such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, promoting a healthy scalp environment and relieving itchy sensations.
Regular use of Calendula officinalis cream can lead to a reduction in itchy scalp symptoms and promote a balanced scalp ecosystem.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Phenolic acids: They help with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and fighting off fungal and bacterial infections that can cause irritation and itchiness.
- Flavonoids: They help with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and acting as an antioxidant to protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to itchiness and irritation.
- Triterpenoids: They help with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and acting as an antifungal agent to combat infections that can cause itchiness and irritation on the scalp.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing itchy scalps.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used, they still contain some of the plant's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate itchy scalp symptoms.
- Seeds: They are often overlooked but are known to contain some of the plant's medicinal properties, which can contribute to the effectiveness of creams for itchy scalps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Infuse 1 cup of flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Pour the cooled mixture into small tin containers and label them for storage and use.
5. Sesamum indicum
Sesamum indicum, also known as sesame, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream, rich in sesamin and sesamolin, helps to calm the skin and reduce inflammation, providing relief from itchy scalp conditions such as dandruff and eczema. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of the cream help to protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy hair growth and a smooth, itch-free scalp.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe and calm the scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesamum indicum creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Fatty acids: Oleic acid helps soothe and calm the itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy skin barrier.
- Sesamin: Sesamin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce redness and itchiness of the scalp by fighting off free radicals and soothing irritated skin.
- Sesquiterpenes: Sesquiterpenes, such as Sesquilin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help to combat scalp infections and reduce itchiness by controlling the growth of fungal and bacterial pathogens.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sesame used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Seeds: Sesame seeds are commonly used to make creams for itchy scalp due to their anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
- Leaves: Sesame leaves are used to make creams for itchy scalp due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm the scalp.
- Seeds: Sesame seeds are also used to make creams for itchy scalp due to their omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp and hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sesame for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 500g of sesamum indicum flowers at dawn to ensure optimal potency retention.
- Dry the flowers at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Grind 200g of dried sesamum indicum flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 50g of the ground powder with 100g of cold-pressed coconut oil and 20g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture continuously for 10 minutes and allow it to cool before transferring to a container.
6. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The antioxidants present in Camellia sinensis help to calm and reduce inflammation on the scalp, providing instant relief from itchiness and irritation. The natural ingredients in these creams also help to balance the pH of the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness, and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Regular use can lead to a reduction in itchiness and a healthier scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and itching associated with an itchy scalp.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help soothe the scalp, reduce inflammation, and alleviate itchy sensations.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, which help reduce itching, inflammation, and redness caused by allergic reactions or skin irritations.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Stems: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and itching associated with an itchy scalp.
- Barks: They possess astringent properties that can help to reduce irritation and itching on the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for itchy scalp.
- Infuse 10 grams of dried camellia sinensis leaves in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a bowl to separate solids from liquid.
- Combine 50ml of the camellia sinensis liquid with 100g of distilled water and 20g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat while stirring occasionally for 10-15 minutes until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before whipping it with a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
7. Artemisia absinthium
Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties.
The plant's essential oils, particularly thujone, have been shown to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and itching. The antifungal properties of wormwood also help control scalp infections, such as dandruff and fungal dermatitis, which can cause itchiness.
Additionally, wormwood's astringent properties help balance the scalp's pH, creating an environment that promotes healthy hair growth and reduces itchiness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Thujone: A sesquiterpene ketone that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and irritation that cause an itchy scalp.
- Lupulin: A sesquiterpene that has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that contribute to scalp itchiness.
- Absinthol: A sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, which can help soothe and calm the itchy scalp, reducing the urge to scratch.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Stems: The stems are used for their astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and itchiness on the scalp.
- Buds: The buds are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce irritation and soothe an itchy scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 100g of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers at peak potency for maximum oil yield.
- Infuse 50g of the dried plant material in 500ml of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil for 4 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material.
- Mix 200g of the infused oil with 100g of beeswax and 50g of vitamin e oil in a double boiler.
- Whip the cooled mixture to a smooth consistency before transferring it to a storage container.
8. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe irritated skin.
The natural compounds present in Echinacea angustifolia, such as alkylamides and polyacetylenes, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing. These creams can also help to balance the scalp's pH, creating a healthy environment for hair growth and reducing the occurrence of itchy scalp conditions.
This makes Echinacea angustifolia creams a popular natural remedy for itchy scalp issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically echinacoside, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with itchy scalp, providing relief from discomfort.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Echinacea angustifolia, such as echinamine and echinacenine, have been shown to have antipruritic effects, which help to soothe and calm itchy scalp conditions.
- Tannins: Tannins in Echinacea angustifolia help to reduce itching and inflammation by constricting blood vessels and reducing the release of histamine, a chemical mediator involved in allergic reactions and itching.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Roots: High in isobutyl amide, a compound that may help soothe itchy scalps.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for itchy scalp relief.
- Buds: Contain compounds like alkylamides that may help reduce inflammation and itching.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of dried echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the plants are mature.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 150f for 2-3 hours or until completely dry.
- Grind the dried echinacea roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Combine the powdered echinacea with 1 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
- Stir the mixture until it thickens and forms a smooth, creamy texture over 10-15 minutes.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compound, glycyrrhizin, found in licorice root, calms irritation and reduces redness associated with itchy scalps. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat scalp infections and balance the scalp's natural pH, leading to a healthier scalp environment.
This results in a reduction in itchiness and flakiness, promoting a comfortable and manageable scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and itching in the scalp.
- Isoflavones: These plant-derived flavonoids have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the scalp from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing itchiness.
- Licoflavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and promoting healthy hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps soothe and calm itchy scalps.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and itching on the scalp.
- Barks: The barks are used because they have been traditionally used to treat skin conditions, including itchy scalps, due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for itchy scalp.
- Extract 500g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots using 2.5 liters of 80% ethanol at room temperature for 2 weeks.
- Filter the resulting liquid to obtain 1 liter of crude extract which contains 20% glycyrrhizic acid.
- Mix 200g of distilled water with the crude extract to obtain a final concentration of 10% glycyrrhizic acid.
- Combine 300g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt at 40-50°c.
- Add the aqueous glycyrrhizic acid solution to the melted mixture of beeswax and coconut oil while stirring at 60-70°c for 10 minutes.
10. Tilia platyphyllos
Tilia platyphyllos, also known as broad-leaved lime, creams helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The presence of flavonoids and tannins in the plant helps to calm and reduce inflammation in the scalp, providing relief from itching and irritation. The cream's moisturizing properties also help to balance the scalp's natural pH, reducing dryness and itchiness.
Regular use can lead to a healthier and more balanced scalp, reducing the occurrence of itchy scalp conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos creams that help with itchy scalp.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Tilia platyphyllos creams have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and inflammation.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Tilia platyphyllos creams have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help prevent infection and reduce inflammation in the scalp, alleviating itchiness and discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Tilia platyphyllos creams have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp, leading to a decrease in itchiness and promotion of healthy scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make creams for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe and calm irritated scalp skin.
- Buds: Contain astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and itching on the scalp.
- Barks: Have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in healing and soothing itchy scalp skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 1 bunch of tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers in the early morning for maximum potency.
- Clean and dry the harvested leaves and flowers by air drying them for 7 days.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of dried tilia platyphyllos in 1 cup of oil in a double boiler for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Mix the infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a heat-proof bowl.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for itchy scalp?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with itchy scalp is a blend of neem and tea tree oil cream, followed by a mixture of aloe vera and coconut oil cream.
Neem cream helps to reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections, while tea tree oil cream soothes and calms the scalp. Aloe vera and coconut oil cream moisturizes and nourishes the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
This combination provides long-lasting relief from itchiness and flakiness.
What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to itchy scalp that are treated with herbal creams are skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
These creams can also be used to soothe insect bites, minor burns, and skin irritations caused by allergic reactions or poison ivy/oak/sumac.
Herbal ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help calm itchy skin, reduce redness, and promote healing.