Last updated: Jul 07, 2024
10 best herbal essential oils for itchy scalp
Herbal essential oils for itchy scalp are a natural remedy that combines the potency of herbs with the benefits of aromatherapy to provide relief from an itchy, flaky scalp.
These oils work by calming inflammation, soothing itchiness, and promoting healthy hair growth. Examples of herbal essential oils that help with itchy scalp include tea tree oil, lavender oil, and chamomile oil, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
By using these oils in a shampoo or massage blend, individuals can experience improved scalp health, reduced dandruff, and enhanced overall well-being, ultimately improving their daily lives.
The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for itchy scalp, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.
The oil's natural antimicrobial agents help to reduce inflammation and irritation on the scalp, providing relief from itchy and flaky skin. Additionally, lavender's calming effects can also promote relaxation and reduce stress, common triggers for itchy scalps.
When massaged into the scalp, English lavender essential oils create a calming and refreshing environment, allowing the skin to heal and soothe naturally.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antiseptic: English lavender essential oil has antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth on the scalp, reducing itchiness and flaking.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lavender oil's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe irritated skin and reduce redness, providing relief from itching and discomfort associated with an itchy scalp.
- Calming: The calming effects of lavender oil can help to relax and calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that may contribute to itchiness on the scalp.
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, lavender roots help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and irritation.
- Seeds: Lavender seeds contain a high concentration of volatile oils that target skin issues like itching and inflammation, making them effective against itchy scalps.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh or dried lavender flowers lavendula angustifolia in the morning after dew has evaporated and dry them completely.
- Combine 100g of dried lavender flowers with 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14-21 days shaking the jar every day to facilitate infusion and allow the essential oils to release from the flowers.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids and reserve the infused oil.
- Allow the infused oil to stand at room temperature for 24 hours before bottling it in dark glass containers with tight-fitting lids for up to 6 months use as an herbal essential oil treatment for itchy scalp.
2. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, which effectively combat dandruff, flakiness, and itchiness caused by fungal or bacterial infections.
The oil's anti-inflammatory properties also soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort. Additionally, tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate excess sebum and dead skin cells, promoting a healthy scalp environment that allows for optimal hair growth.
This natural remedy can provide relief from itchy scalp conditions, leaving your scalp feeling calm, cool, and collected.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antifungal properties: TTO's antifungal activity helps to combat fungal infections such as ringworm, which can cause itching and irritation on the scalp.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: TTO's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and redness caused by irritants or allergic reactions, providing relief from itchiness and discomfort.
- Antimicrobial properties: TTO's antimicrobial activity helps to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can contribute to an itchy scalp, such as staph infections or dandruff.
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Known for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, tea tree leaves are often used to create essential oils that can help soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, tea tree roots are valued for their ability to reduce redness and irritation associated with an itchy scalp.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for itchy scalp.
- Gather high-quality melaleuca alternifolia leaves in sufficient quantity for the desired oil yield.
- Dry the leaves thoroughly by spreading them out in a single layer and allowing them to air dry for 7-10 days.
- Steam distill the dried leaves using a glass still or a commercial essential oil distiller with water at a ratio of 1:5 for 4 hours.
- Collect and filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or paper towels to remove impurities and sediment.
- Bottle the final product in dark glass containers and store it in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months, shaking well before use.
3. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
It has been shown to reduce dandruff, itching, and flaking caused by fungal and bacterial infections. The oil's antioxidant compounds also help soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort.
Additionally, rosemary oil stimulates blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and improving circulation, which can help alleviate itchy feelings and leave the scalp feeling calm and refreshed.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Rosemary essential oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation on the scalp, which can contribute to itchiness.
- Anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties: The antifungal and antimicrobial properties of rosemary essential oil help combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchy scalps by preventing their growth and spread.
- Stimulating and improving blood circulation properties: Rosemary essential oil's ability to stimulate and improve blood circulation helps increase oxygenation and nutrient supply to the scalp, which can alleviate itchiness and promote healthy hair growth.
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves of rosemary contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Roots: Rosemary roots have been used traditionally in aromatherapy to reduce dandruff and other scalp irritations, due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves from your garden or purchase high-quality dried herbs in bulk.
- Dry the harvested leaves for at least 24 hours to reduce moisture content using air circulation or a dehydrator.
- Blend 50 grams of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 200 ml of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
- Steep the herbal mixture in a glass jar for 2 weeks, shaking daily, allowing the oils to infuse and extract beneficial compounds.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding solids and preserving the aromatic essential oil.
4. Salvia officinalis
Sage essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
The oil's ability to soothe and calm irritated skin helps to reduce itching and flaking associated with conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. Sage oil also has natural antifungal and antibacterial qualities that can help control the growth of yeast and bacteria on the scalp, which can contribute to itchy and flaky patches.
As a result, sage essential oils can provide relief from an itchy scalp and promote healthy, balanced skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antioxidant properties: Sage essential oil's antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress on the scalp, which can contribute to itchiness and irritation.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Sage essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and redness on the scalp, providing relief from itching and discomfort caused by conditions like dandruff or psoriasis.
- Antifungal and antibacterial properties: Sage essential oil's antifungal and antibacterial properties help combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness, irritation, and flaking on the scalp.
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: Sage roots are a popular choice for making essential oils due to their potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated scalps.
- Barks: The barks of the sage plant contain flavonoids and terpenes that have antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, making them effective in treating itchy scalp conditions caused by fungal or bacterial infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh or dried salvia officinalis leaves from the garden or store-bought sources weighing approximately one ounce.
- Cleanse the harvested leaves by gently rinsing them with warm water and pat drying with a paper towel to remove impurities.
- Combine the cleansed leaves with one cup of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a clean glass jar for maceration overnight at room temperature.
- After eight hours, strain the mixture through cheesecloth into another container discarding the solids and retain the herbal-infused carrier oil.
- Transfer the infused oil to a double boiler or a steam distillation apparatus to extract the essential oils from the infused oil for two to three hours yielding approximately 10ml of salvia officinalis essential oil.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The oil's ability to reduce inflammation soothes irritated skin, providing relief from itching and discomfort. Additionally, thyme's antimicrobial properties help eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
This natural remedy effectively calms the itch, leaving hair feeling soft, clean, and refreshed.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antibacterial: Thyme essential oil's antibacterial properties can help combat scalp infections, such as folliculitis or ringworm, which may be causing itchiness and discomfort.
- Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in thyme essential oil can reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or eczema on the scalp.
- Antifungal: Thyme essential oil's antifungal properties can help control fungal overgrowth, which may be contributing to itchiness, flakiness, and other symptoms of conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help soothe and calm irritated scalps.
- Seeds: Containing anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce redness and itchiness associated with scalp conditions.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves from your garden or a trusted supplier weighing approximately 100g.
- Wash the harvested leaves with distilled water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris gently stirring for 10 minutes.
- Steam distill the washed leaves using a steam distillation apparatus at atmospheric pressure for 30-40 minutes.
- Separate the essential oil from the hydrosol mixture by cooling the distillation flask in an ice bath then separating layers within 20 minutes.
- Store the resulting thymus vulgaris essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids away from direct sunlight for up to one year.
6. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as calendulin and triterpenoids, soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and redness associated with itchiness. Additionally, the oil's natural antimicrobial properties help to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to scalp issues.
As a result, pot marigold essential oils provide a gentle yet effective solution for relieving itchy scalps and promoting overall scalp health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Anti-inflammatory: Pot Marigold essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with an itchy scalp.
- Antimicrobial: The antimicrobial properties of the oil can help combat fungal infections, such as dandruff, that often contribute to itchiness on the scalp.
- Antioxidant: Pot Marigold essential oil's antioxidant properties can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to itchiness and flakiness.
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: Potent anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and calm irritated scalps.
- Flowers: Antimicrobial and antifungal compounds combat fungal infections, reducing itchiness.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh calendula flowers and dry them thoroughly using a food dehydrator at 135°f for 24 hours.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 50 grams of ground calendula powder with 250 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days, shaking the jar daily to allow the oil to infuse with the herbal properties.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and allowing the oil to settle before use.
7. Helichrysum italicum
Curry plant essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
When massaged into the scalp, it soothes and calms irritated skin, reducing redness and flaking. The oil's natural antibacterial properties also help to control fungal and yeast overgrowth that can contribute to itchiness. Additionally, curry plant essential oils have been shown to promote healthy circulation, which can help to reduce itching caused by poor blood flow.
Overall, it provides a natural and effective solution for relieving an itchy scalp.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in curry plant essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antiseptic properties: Herbal curry plant essential oil has antiseptic properties that help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth on the scalp, which can contribute to an itchy scalp.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The anti-inflammatory properties of curry plant essential oil can help to soothe and calm irritated skin on the scalp, reducing itchiness and redness.
- Antioxidant properties: Curry plant essential oil contains antioxidants that help to protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to dryness, itchiness, and flakiness.
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: Curry plant roots have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves of the curry plant contain antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that can help reduce inflammation and prevent fungal infections causing itchiness.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh helichrysum italicum leaves in the early morning and wash them gently with distilled water.
- Dry the leaves in a warm, dry place or using a food dehydrator on low heat for 2 hours.
- Crush the dried leaves into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or blender.
- Mix 1 part helichrysum italicum powder with 2 parts carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil in a glass bottle and shake well.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 24 hours before straining the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle.
8. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The oil's compounds, such as cineole and terpinen-4-ol, have been shown to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with itchiness. Additionally, the oil's natural antimicrobial properties help to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to itchy scalp conditions like dandruff and psoriasis.
By addressing these underlying issues, Tasmanian blue gum essential oils can provide long-lasting relief from an itchy scalp.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antimicrobial properties: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil's antimicrobial properties help to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness, redness, and flakiness on the scalp.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and itching caused by an itchy scalp, providing relief from discomfort and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Antioxidant properties: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil's antioxidant properties help protect the scalp from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to itchiness, dryness, and flakiness.
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: The roots of the Tasmanian blue gum plant have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, making them effective in soothing and calming an itchy scalp.
- Barks: The barks of the Tasmanian blue gum plant contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and itching, providing relief from an itchy scalp.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for itchy scalp.
- Harvest eucalyptus globulus leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal oil content and freshness.
- Dry the harvested leaves for at least 7 days to reduce moisture content and preserve quality.
- Steam-distill 100 grams of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 500 milliliters of water for 4 hours to extract essential oils.
- Filter the distillation liquid using a paper filter or coffee filters to remove impurities and sediment.
- Store the extracted essential oil in dark glass bottles, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
9. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.
It effectively calms and cools the scalp, reducing irritation and itchiness caused by conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. The oil's natural antiseptic properties also help to prevent infection, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Additionally, lemon balm's calming effects can ease mental stress and anxiety, which are often linked to itchy scalps.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antibacterial: Herbal lemon balm essential oil has antibacterial properties, which helps to combat bacterial infections on the scalp that can cause itching and irritation, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy hair growth.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lemon balm essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with an itchy scalp, making it more comfortable to manage.
- Antifungal: The antifungal properties of lemon balm essential oil can help to combat fungal infections such as ringworm and athlete's foot, which can cause itching, burning, and flaking on the scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: The roots of lemon balm are valued for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing an itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Lemon balm leaves contain compounds that help reduce redness and inflammation, providing relief from itching and irritation on the scalp.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for itchy scalp.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves at peak freshness and dry them thoroughly to prevent spoilage.
- Steam-distill the dried melissa officinalis leaves using a still or apparatus for optimal oil extraction.
- Monitor and collect the distilled essential oil as it condenses into a container, aiming for 20-30ml yield after 4 hours of distillation.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove impurities and sediment, then store in dark glass bottles at room temperature.
- Allow the melissa officinalis essential oil to mature for at least 2 weeks before using, shaking the bottle daily to ensure even blending of constituents.
10. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass essential oils helps with itchy scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
It soothes irritated skin, reducing redness and itching caused by conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. The oil's citrusy scent also helps to calm the scalp, promoting relaxation and reducing tension that can exacerbate itchiness.
Additionally, lemongrass essential oils has natural astringent properties that help to balance the scalp's natural pH, removing dirt and excess oil that can irritate the skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass essential oils that aid with itchy scalp.
- Antioxidant properties: Lemongrass essential oil's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to itchy scalps.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in lemongrass essential oil, such as citral and geraniol, help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing itchiness and discomfort.
- Antimicrobial properties: Lemongrass essential oil's antimicrobial properties can help to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchy scalps, such as dandruff, ringworm, and psoriasis.
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make essential oils for itchy scalp.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, lemongrass roots help soothe and calm itchiness on the scalp.
- Buds: Containing high levels of citral, a natural antiseptic and antifungal agent, lemongrass buds effectively combat scalp infections that cause itchiness.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh cymbopopgon citratus leaves in the early morning ensuring maximum oil content.
- Wash the harvested leaves gently with distilled water to remove dirt and debris taking approximately 15 minutes.
- Dry the washed leaves using a food dehydrator at 60 degrees celsius for 8 hours or air dry them for 24 hours.
- Steam distill the dried cymbopogon citratus leaves using a commercial steam distillation unit with a distillation ratio of 1:5 taking approximately 2-3 hours.
- Filter and bottle the extracted essential oil in dark glass containers and store it in a cool dry place for future use taking approximately 30 minutes.
How to best treat itchy scalp with herbal essential oils?
The best way to treat itchy scalp with herbal essential oils is by mixing a few drops of tea tree oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
Apply the blend to your scalp, massage gently, and leave it on for 30 minutes before shampooing.
This combination soothes inflammation, reduces itchiness, and promotes healthy hair growth.
What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal essential oils?
Ailments similar to itchy scalp that are treated with herbal essential oils are eczema, acne/essential-oils.html">acne, and skin rashes.
Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat these conditions due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help soothe and calm irritated skin. Other herbs like lavender, chamomile, and geranium are also used to reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, and improve skin clarity.
These natural oils can be applied topically or added to bath water for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.