By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Itchy Scalp
Herbal teas for itchy scalp are natural remedies made from various plant extracts that help alleviate scalp irritation and itching.
These teas work by soothing and calming the scalp, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy hair growth. Examples of herbal teas for itchy scalp include peppermint, chamomile, and tea tree oil, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
By using these teas, individuals can find relief from itchy scalp conditions, improving their overall quality of life and reducing stress related to scalp irritation.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for itchy scalp, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Urtica dioica
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Cymbopogon citratus
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 7. Thymus vulgaris
- 8. Santalum album
- 9. Calendula officinalis
- 10. Ginkgo biloba
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for itchy scalp?
- What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal teas?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The active compounds in Melaleuca alternifolia, such as terpinen-4-ol, have been shown to effectively combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause scalp irritation and itchiness. By reducing the presence of these microorganisms, the tea can help to soothe and calm the scalp, providing relief from itchy and flaky skin.
Regular use can promote a healthy scalp and reduce the occurrence of itchy scalp conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Cineole: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
- Limonene: A terpene with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, limonene helps to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness on the scalp.
- Cymene: A terpene with antimicrobial and antifungal properties, cymene helps to eliminate fungal infections that can cause itchiness and dandruff on the scalp.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of compounds like cineole, which has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
- Stems: Utilized for their similar composition to leaves, which contains cineole and other beneficial compounds for scalp health.
- Barks: Employed for their ability to provide a soothing and calming effect on the scalp, often due to the presence of various bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh leaves from mature plants with dark green and lance-shaped leaves about 4-6 inches long.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 100-150 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours to prevent oil loss.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle to enhance extraction.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids to enjoy its medicinal properties.
2. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties.
The tea is rich in antioxidants, which help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and irritation. The presence of flavonoids and other compounds in stinging nettle tea may also help to reduce dandruff and promote a healthy scalp environment.
Regular consumption of Urtica dioica tea may lead to a reduction in itchiness and flakiness, promoting a balanced scalp and overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with itchy scalp conditions.
- Aluminum: Although not as commonly discussed, the presence of aluminum has been shown to help soothe and reduce irritation of the scalp, potentially alleviating itchy sensations.
- Fisetin: As a flavonoid, fisetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help calm the scalp and reduce the itching associated with conditions such as eczema or dermatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of urticine, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica contain similar anti-inflammatory properties to the leaves, making them a popular choice for teas to soothe itchy scalp conditions.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are also used to make teas, as they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh leaves and stems of urtica dioica in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Rinse the harvested urtica dioica in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop 2-3 teaspoons of urtica dioica leaves and stems into small pieces for steeping.
- Steep the chopped urtica dioica in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release flavonoids.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup for serving.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel inside the aloe vera plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help to calm irritation and reduce inflammation in the scalp. As a result, aloe vera teas can provide relief from itchy scalps, promoting a healthy scalp environment and preventing conditions like dandruff and eczema.
Regular consumption of aloe vera teas may also promote hair growth and strengthen hair follicles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Chlorogenic acid: This phenolic compound helps reduce inflammation in the scalp, alleviating itchiness and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, an anthraquinone derivative, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and calm itchy scalps caused by fungal or bacterial infections.
- Catechins: Catechins, a type of flavonoid, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp, thereby alleviating itchiness and promoting hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The most commonly used part of Aloe vera for teas, as they contain the highest concentration of anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds.
- Stems: The stems of Aloe vera are also used to make teas, as they contain a significant amount of the gel-like substance that provides relief from itchy scalp.
- Flowers: Aloe vera flowers are used in some teas, as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an itchy scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for itchy scalp.
- Harvest aloe vera gel from mature leaves by cutting them at the base with a sharp knife carefully.
- Wash the harvested aloe vera gel thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine 1-2 tablespoons of the aloe vera gel with 8 ounces of boiling water to make tea.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes then strain the liquid to remove any remaining pulp.
- Serve the herbal aloe vera tea warm or chilled garnished with a slice of fresh aloe vera.
4. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause itchiness. Additionally, lemongrass tea's antifungal properties can help to control the growth of fungal infections that can contribute to an itchy scalp.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for those suffering from dandruff, eczema, and other scalp conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Citral: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, helping to soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Limonene: A terpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, potentially reducing irritation and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Cymbopogonolide: A phenolic compound that has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which may help alleviate itchiness and promote scalp health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of citral, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Utilized for their ability to provide relief from itchy scalps due to their oil content and antioxidant properties.
- Rhyzomes: Employed for their soothing and calming effects, often attributed to their essential oil and citral content.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 20g of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems in the early morning for optimal flavor.
- Rinse the harvested cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems with cold running water to remove any dirt.
- Chop the rinsed cymbopogon citratus into fine pieces to release their oils and flavors.
- Steep 5g of the chopped cymbopogon citratus in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain and discard the solids to serve the herbal tea hot or chilled within 30 minutes.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's active compounds, linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy scalp. By reducing fungal growth and calming inflammation, lavender tea can provide relief from itchy scalp conditions, such as dandruff and psoriasis.
Regular consumption may also promote a balanced scalp pH, leading to a healthier and itch-free scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and soothe itchy scalp by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene that has anti-pruritic properties, helping to calm and reduce the sensation of itchiness on the scalp.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the scalp, thus alleviating itchiness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe and calm itchy scalp conditions.
- Flowers: Utilized for their calming and antifungal effects, helping to reduce irritation and promote a healthy scalp.
- Stems: Employed for their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing itchiness and preventing further scalp infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh lavender flowers on a dry sunny morning when they are in full bloom.
- Rinse the lavender flowers gently with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry the lavender flowers in a single layer using paper bags and a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers with 1 quart of boiling water to make a soothing tea.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes before straining and serving the tea in a cup.
6. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The herb's essential oils, such as camphor and bornyl acetate, have anti-inflammatory effects that soothe and calm irritated scalp skin. Additionally, rosemary's ability to improve circulation may help reduce dandruff and other scalp irritations.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy scalp conditions, rosemary teas can provide relief from itchy scalp symptoms and promote a healthy, balanced scalp ecosystem.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Camphor: It helps with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and providing a cooling sensation that soothes the scalp.
- Bornyl acetate: This terpene helps by acting as an anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent, which can reduce irritation and infection that contribute to itchy scalp.
- Rosmarinic acid: It helps by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which can reduce redness, swelling, and itchiness associated with scalp irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They are commonly used to make teas due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly camphor and borneol, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe an itchy scalp.
- Flowers: The fragrant flowers of Rosmarinus officinalis are used to make teas that can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth, thereby alleviating itchy scalp issues.
- Buds: The buds of the plant contain a high amount of essential oils, including camphor and thujone, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help relieve itchy scalp conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for itchy scalp.
- Gather 2 tablespoons of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves for every 8 ounces of water needed.
- Boil the water in a pot for 5-7 minutes over high heat to reach 212 degrees fahrenheit.
- Steep the dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to release.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove leaves.
- Serve the rosmarinus officinalis tea hot or iced according to your preference within 30 minutes.
7. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, help to reduce inflammation and eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness. Additionally, thyme teas have antiseptic properties that soothe and calm the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing the urge to scratch.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate itchy scalp issues, making it a popular choice for those seeking a chemical-free solution.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Thymol: Thymol is a terpene that helps with itchy scalp by exhibiting antifungal and antibacterial properties, reducing the growth of pathogens that can cause irritation.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene that helps with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate itching and discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic diterpene that helps with itchy scalp by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They are commonly used to make teas for itchy scalp due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: They are used to create teas for itchy scalp relief, likely due to their ability to soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Buds: They are used to make teas for itchy scalp, possibly because of their antimicrobial properties that help combat scalp infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for itchy scalp.
- Harvest a handful of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers from a nearby garden or pot.
- Rinse the thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and medicinal properties to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea into a cup and serve hot or allow it to cool before drinking.
8. Santalum album
Santalum album, also known as sandalwood, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as santalol and sesquiterpenes, soothe and calm irritated scalp skin, reducing inflammation and redness. The antimicrobial properties of sandalwood tea help to eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
This natural remedy can provide relief from itchy scalp issues, promoting a comfortable and itch-free scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Santalum album teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Santalol: Santalol, a sesquiterpene, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and irritation associated with an itchy scalp.
- Fragrance compounds: Santalum album tea contains a variety of fragrance compounds, including santalene and bergamotene. These compounds have been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infections that may contribute to an itchy scalp.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid and vanillic acid, are present in Santalum album tea and have been found to possess antioxidant properties. These antioxidants can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sandalwood used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Rhyzomes: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to soothe an itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties to help combat scalp infections and irritation.
- Barks: Employed for their antioxidant properties to reduce inflammation and promote healthy scalp conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sandalwood for itchy scalp.
- Dry the 20-40 grams of santalum album leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50-60 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours.
- Grind the dried santalum album leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the powdered santalum album with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes before straining it using a tea strainer or cheesecloth.
- Discard the solids and serve the herbal tea hot or chilled within 30 minutes of preparation.
9. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The antioxidants present in Calendula can soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and irritation that may be causing itchiness. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help combat dandruff and fungal infections that may contribute to an itchy scalp.
This natural remedy can provide relief and promote healthy scalp conditions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural solution to itchy scalp issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Carotenoids: Carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp, which can contribute to itchiness.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid found in Calendula, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can soothe itchy scalps and promote healthy skin.
- Triterpenoids: Calendula triterpenes have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate itchiness, reduce dandruff, and promote a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe itchy scalps.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for teas as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and irritation associated with an itchy scalp.
- Stems: The stems are sometimes used for teas due to their ability to provide a gentle, soothing effect that may help calm itchy scalp conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh calendula flowers by hand during peak bloom and dry them thoroughly to preserve potency for 30 minutes.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers for every 8 ounces of boiling water required for steeping for 5-7 minutes.
- Steep the calendula flowers in boiling water and let it sit for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining plant material and discard solids.
- Store the cooled calendula tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume as a calming herbal remedy.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tea has been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated scalps, reducing itchiness and flaking. Ginkgo biloba's flavonoids and terpenoids help to improve blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing dandruff.
By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy scalp environment, Ginkgo biloba teas provide a natural solution to itchy scalp issues, promoting a comfortable and healthy head of hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with itchy scalp.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation to the scalp, which may help soothe and calm irritation.
- Bilobalide: As a sesquiterpene triterpene, bilobalide may help in reducing neuroinflammation and itching sensations, which could be beneficial for itchy scalp conditions.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help in reducing itchiness and inflammation in the scalp, thus providing relief from itchy scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe itchy scalps.
- Buds: Ginkgo biloba buds are used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with itchy scalps.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used due to their rich content of ginkgolic acids, which may have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that can help combat scalp infections and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for itchy scalp.
- Measure out 30-60 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves per liter of water for a standard tea dosage.
- Crush the dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder.
- Combine the powdered ginkgo biloba leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan or teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for itchy scalp?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with itchy scalp is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and calendula.
Peppermint tea soothes and cools the scalp, reducing inflammation and itching. Chamomile tea calms and relaxes the scalp, while calendula tea promotes skin health and reduces redness.
This combination can be made by steeping equal parts of dried peppermint, chamomile, and calendula leaves in hot water, then straining and applying it as a final rinse after shampooing.
What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to itchy scalp that are treated with herbal teas are eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of herbs such as chamomile, calendula, and tea tree can soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote healing.
These teas may be used as a warm compress or added to bath water for a relaxing and therapeutic experience.