10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Itchy Scalp

Herbal decoctions for itchy scalp are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to soothe and calm an itchy scalp.

These decoctions work wonders by reducing inflammation, combating fungal and bacterial infections, and promoting healthy scalp circulation. For example, a decoction of neem leaves or tea tree oil can help to alleviate itchiness and flakiness, while a blend of lavender and chamomile can promote relaxation and reduce stress.

By using these natural remedies, individuals with itchy scalps can enjoy a more comfortable and confident daily life, free from the constant urge to scratch and worry about scalp health.

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

1. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties.

The decoction soothes and calms the scalp, reducing redness and irritation caused by itching. Nettle's astringent properties also help to reduce excess oil production, which can contribute to itchiness. Additionally, nettle contains antioxidants that promote healthy skin and hair growth, reducing flakiness and dandruff.

By using a stinging nettle decoction as a scalp treatment, individuals with an itchy scalp can experience relief from discomfort and achieve a healthier, more balanced scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with itchy scalp.

• Histamine-reducing flavonoids: These flavonoids help to alleviate itchy scalp by reducing the release of histamine, a chemical that can exacerbate itching and inflammation.
• Quercetin: As a potent anti-inflammatory agent, quercetin helps to soothe and calm the itchy scalp, reducing redness and inflammation associated with itchiness.
• Allicin: Allicin has been shown to exhibit antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help to treat scalp conditions such as dandruff and itchiness caused by fungal or bacterial infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are commonly used due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as histamine-releasing chemicals and flavonoids.
• Roots: Urtica dioica roots are often utilized for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help to calm itchy scalps and reduce irritation.
• Stems: Urtica dioica stems are sometimes used in decoctions for their high content of flavonoids and other antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote skin health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for itchy scalp.

1. Gather fresh or dried urtica dioica leaves and stems in quantities of 30-60 grams for a decoction.
2. Combine the collected urtica dioica with 2-3 liters of water in a large pot for a decoction.
3. Bring the urtica dioica and water mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the urtica dioica decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a bowl for separation.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for later use.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The natural gel inside aloe leaves contains powerful compounds that calm irritated skin, reducing redness and itching associated with conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. As the decoction is applied to the scalp, these compounds work to normalize skin pH levels, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy scalp function.

This can help alleviate discomfort and flaking, leaving the scalp feeling calm, comfortable, and well-balanced.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Aloin: Aloin, a anthraquinone glycoside, helps to reduce inflammation and itching by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting the healing of skin lesions.
• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a lignan, has anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, which help to soothe and calm an itchy scalp by reducing redness and swelling.
• Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpene saponin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help to reduce itching and inflammation by modulating the immune response and promoting skin barrier function.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most used part of Aloe vera as they contain high amounts of gel, which is rich in soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve itchy scalp.
• Stems: Stems of Aloe vera contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help to calm and soothe an itchy scalp.
• Roots: Roots of Aloe vera are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and prevent infections that may cause an itchy scalp.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Select fresh aloe vera leaves with firm green skin and tender gel inside for best results.
2. Wash the aloe vera leaves with cold water to remove dirt and other contaminants thoroughly.
3. Chop 100-200 grams of aloe vera leaves into small pieces to increase surface area.
4. Steep the chopped aloe vera pieces in 1 liter of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh to remove solids completely.

3. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its antimicrobial properties, which target and eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce redness and swelling, while its antifungal properties combat dandruff and other scalp conditions. Additionally, tea tree decoctions soothe and calm the scalp, providing instant relief from itching and discomfort.

This natural remedy is an effective and gentle way to alleviate itchy scalp issues without harsh chemicals.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: It helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp, thereby providing relief from itchy scalp conditions.
• Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which help to control fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchy scalp conditions, such as dandruff and scalp irritation.
• Caryophyllene oxide: It has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and swelling in the scalp, providing relief from itchy scalp conditions and promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Melaleuca alternifolia to make decoctions for an itchy scalp due to their high content of eucalyptol, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Buds: The buds are used because they contain a high concentration of essential oils, which can help soothe and calm itchy scalp irritations.
• Stems: The stems are used in decoctions for itchy scalp due to their ability to provide relief from inflammation and itching, likely due to the presence of bioactive compounds like flavonoids and terpenes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh leaves from melaleuca alternifolia plants in the morning for optimal oil content.
2. Rinse the leaves thoroughly with clean water to remove dirt and impurities from the surface.
3. Chop the leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for efficient extraction.
4. Steep the chopped leaves in 1 quart of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to release their active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant material completely.

4. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum decoctions helps with itchy scalp because its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin and calm redness.

The decoction's antimicrobial agents also help to control the growth of yeast and fungi that can contribute to itchiness. Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum's gentle astringent properties help to balance the scalp's natural pH, reducing irritation and flaking.

By promoting healthy skin and reducing inflammation, Tasmanian blue gum decoctions provide effective relief from itchy scalp conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: Cineole, a terpene, helps to reduce inflammation and relieve itchy scalp by acting as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent.
• Eucalyptol: Eucalyptol, another terpene, has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the itchy scalp, reducing irritation and discomfort.
• Α-pinene: α-pinene, a terpene, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to reduce itching and inflammation on the scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used for their antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties to soothe an itchy scalp.
• Barks: Used for their analgesic and antiseptic properties to reduce inflammation and itching on the scalp.
• Buds: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to calm and clean an itchy scalp.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Collect fresh or dried eucalyptus globulus leaves in amounts of 1-2 tablespoons per 1 cup of water.
2. Rinse the eucalyptus globulus leaves to remove dirt and debris from the herbal material.
3. Combine the eucalyptus globulus leaves with 1 cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the eucalyptus globulus decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
5. Store the herbal eucalyptus globulus decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

5. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The natural compounds in rosemary, such as camphor and borneol, help to reduce redness and swelling associated with itchy scalp conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. Additionally, rosemary's antioxidant properties help to soothe irritated skin and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and discomfort.

By using a rosemary decoction as a hair rinse, individuals can experience relief from an itchy scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Bornyl acetate: A terpene found in rosemary, bornyl acetate helps with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, thus alleviating itchiness and discomfort.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm an itchy scalp, reducing redness and irritation.
• Cineole: A terpene with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, cineole helps to reduce itching and flaking by controlling fungal and bacterial infections that may be contributing to scalp irritation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Leaves: Rosmarinus officinalis leaves are commonly used in decoctions for an itchy scalp due to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm irritated skin.
• Stems: Rosmarinus officinalis stems are used in decoctions for an itchy scalp because they contain essential oils that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healthy scalp conditions.
• Leaves: Rosmarinus officinalis leaves are also used in decoctions for an itchy scalp due to their ability to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy hair growth, reducing the appearance of itchiness and flakiness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25g of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves or 10g of dried leaves for decoction.
2. Rinse the rosmarinus officinalis leaves with filtered water to remove impurities and debris.
3. Combine the rinsed rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 1l of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Solanum lycopersicum

Tomato decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of their potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.

The antioxidants present in tomatoes soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and itchiness associated with conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. Additionally, the antibacterial agents in tomato decoctions help eliminate fungal infections that can cause flakiness and irritation on the scalp.

By using a herbal tomato decoction as a hair rinse, individuals can enjoy a healthy, flake-free scalp and shiny, manageable locks.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solanum lycopersicum decoctions that help with itchy scalp.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with itchy scalp conditions.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp, leading to relief from itchiness and flakiness.
• Carotenoids: As an antioxidant, lycopene can help protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to itchy scalp conditions and promote healthy skin and hair growth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tomato used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
• Fruits: Tomatoes contain lycopene, a potent antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and promote skin health, which may alleviate itchy scalp issues.
• Seeds: Tomato seeds are rich in saponins, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to control scalp infections and itchiness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tomato for itchy scalp.

1. Harvest 250g of fresh solanum lycopersicum fruit at the peak of ripeness for best flavor and potency.
2. Wash the solanum lycopersicum thoroughly with filtered water to remove dirt and impurities from the surface.
3. Chop the solanum lycopersicum into small pieces to increase the surface area for decoction.
4. Combine 30g of chopped solanum lycopersicum with 1l of filtered water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the decoction for 20-30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.

7. Ocimum basilicum

Basil decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's active compounds, such as eugenol and citronellol, work synergistically to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause irritation and itchiness on the scalp. Additionally, basil's calming and soothing properties help reduce redness and inflammation, providing relief from itchy scalps caused by conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or eczema.

As a result, herbal basil decoctions offer a natural and effective way to alleviate itchy scalp discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ocimum basilicum decoctions that help with itchy scalp.

• Eugenol: Eugenol, a phenolic compound found in Ocimum basilicum, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm the itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of microorganisms that cause irritation.
• Borneol: Borneol, a terpene found in Ocimum basilicum, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection on the itchy scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
• Cineole: Cineole, a terpene found in Ocimum basilicum, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection on the itchy scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment and alleviating itchiness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of basil used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of essential oils and antioxidants, which help soothe and calm itchy scalp conditions.
• Seeds: Basil seeds are used for their anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help to reduce itching, redness, and irritation associated with scalp conditions.
• Flowers: Basil flowers are used for their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help to prevent infections and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic basil for itchy scalp.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh leaves of ocimum basilicum in the morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
2. Clean the leaves thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris that may be present.
3. Chop the leaves finely to increase their surface area and release their active compounds.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create a decoction.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids and discard the solids.

8. Curcuma longa

Turmeric decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The curcumin present in turmeric also exhibits antifungal and antibacterial activities, effectively combating fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itching and flaking on the scalp. Additionally, turmeric's natural antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress, promoting a healthy scalp environment and alleviating discomfort.

Regular use of turmeric decoctions can lead to a significant reduction in itchy scalp symptoms, promoting a calm and comfortable head.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with itchy scalp.

• Curcumin: It helps with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
• Demethoxycurcumin: It helps with itchy scalp by exhibiting potent antioxidant properties, which help in neutralizing free radicals and preventing damage to scalp tissues.
• Tumerone: It helps with itchy scalp by possessing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing redness and inflammation, and preventing the growth of pathogens that can cause itchiness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa, as they contain high amounts of curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and calm itchy scalps.
• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are also used to make decoctions for itchy scalp due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Leaves: The leaves are used in some decoctions for their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help to combat fungal infections and soothe itchy scalps.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for itchy scalp.

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried curcuma longa root and 2 cups of water for the decoction.
2. Combine the dried root in a saucepan with the water and bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by half.
4. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume 1/2 cup as needed.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's antioxidant-rich compounds help to soothe and calm irritated scalps, reducing inflammation and redness. Additionally, the decoction's antifungal and antibacterial properties work to eliminate any underlying fungal or bacterial infections that may be contributing to the itchiness.

As a result, maidenhair tree decoctions provide long-lasting relief from itchy scalp symptoms, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with itchy scalp.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and itching on the scalp.
• Bilobalide: This terpene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm itchy scalp conditions by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones have anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itching) properties, which can help alleviate itchy scalp conditions by reducing inflammation and itching.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to soothe and calm the itchy scalp.
• Seeds: Utilized for their anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce itching and inflammation.
• Buds: Employed for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties to prevent infections and promote a healthy scalp.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for itchy scalp.

1. Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
2. Rinse 30-60 grams of ginkgo biloba leaves with filtered water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the ginkgo biloba leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Steep the chopped ginkgo biloba leaves in 1 liter of boiling water for 30-60 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.

10. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal decoctions helps with itchy scalp because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The berberine content in goldenseal has been shown to reduce inflammation and combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness and irritation. By soothing the scalp and reducing inflammation, goldenseal decoctions can provide relief from itching, flaking, and discomfort associated with conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema.

Regular use of goldenseal decoctions may also help to balance the natural pH of the scalp, promoting a healthy and comfortable hair growth environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with itchy scalp.

• Berberine: A bioactive alkaloid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and controlling fungal or bacterial infections that may cause itchiness.
• Berbamine: Another alkaloid present in Goldenseal, berbamine has shown anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which may help soothe an itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and combating fungal infections that cause itchiness.
• Hydrastine: A phenolic compound found in Goldenseal, hydrastine has been reported to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and controlling infections that may cause itchiness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for itchy scalp.

• Roots: They are the primary part used for medicinal purposes due to their high concentration of berberine and hydrastine, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe an itchy scalp.
• Leaves: The leaves contain similar compounds to the roots, making them a suitable alternative for topical use in decoctions to alleviate scalp irritation.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes, or underground stems, of Hydrastis canadensis also contain berberine and hydrastine, which contribute to their use in decoctions for treating itchy scalp conditions.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for itchy scalp.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of dried hydrastis canadensis root from a reputable supplier or wildcrafted source.
2. Grind the dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle to enhance extraction.
3. Combine 2-4 grams of the powdered root with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass measuring cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes in a covered container to allow for proper extraction of compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove solids.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for itchy scalp?

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

Neem decoction has antifungal and antibacterial properties that reduce inflammation and soothe itchy skin. Aloe vera decoction moisturizes and calms the scalp, while tea tree decoction has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that promote a healthy scalp environment. Combining these decoctions can provide long-lasting relief from itchy scalp and promote overall scalp health.

Regular use can lead to a healthy, itch-free scalp.

What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to itchy scalp that are treated with herbal decoctions are eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Decoctions made from herbs such as neem, turmeric, and calendula can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and itchiness.

Additionally, herbal decoctions may also be used to treat other skin issues like dermatitis, rashes, and minor wounds.