By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Itchy Scalp
Herbal tinctures for itchy scalp are a natural and effective way to soothe and calm an irritated scalp.
These concentrated liquid extracts, made from botanicals such as tea tree oil, lavender, and chamomile, can be applied directly to the scalp to reduce inflammation and itchiness. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with itchy scalp include peppermint, which cools and calms the skin, and lemongrass, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
By using these tinctures, individuals can experience a significant reduction in itching and discomfort, allowing them to feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for itchy scalp, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Urtica dioica
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 4. Eucalyptus globulus
- 5. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 6. Solanum lycopersicum
- 7. Ocimum basilicum
- 8. Curcuma longa
- 9. Ginkgo biloba
- 10. Hydrastis canadensis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for itchy scalp?
- What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The herb contains compounds that soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation caused by itchiness. Additionally, stinging nettle's antifungal and antibacterial properties help to eliminate any underlying fungal or bacterial infections that may be contributing to the itchiness.
By addressing these underlying issues, stinging nettle tinctures can provide relief from an itchy scalp, promoting a healthy and comfortable hair growth environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Urtica dioica, such as histamine and serotonin receptors modulators, may help alleviate itchiness by suppressing the release of histamine, a chemical mediator involved in allergic reactions.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, a class of phenolic compounds found in Urtica dioica, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and calm the skin and scalp, reducing itchiness and inflammation.
- Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpenoid glycoside, have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, which may contribute to their potential in reducing scalp itchiness and promoting healthy skin and scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They contain anti-inflammatory and antipruritic compounds that help alleviate itchy scalp conditions.
- Stems: Like the leaves, the stems also contain anti-inflammatory and antipruritic compounds, making them a popular choice for itchy scalp tinctures.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica contain a higher concentration of antipruritic compounds, which help to soothe and calm itchy scalp conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for itchy scalp.
- Harvest approximately 100 grams of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems early in the morning when they are at their highest potency level.
- Chop the harvested urtica dioica into small pieces to release their active ingredients and increase surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped urtica dioica with 500 milliliters of high-proof vodka such as everclear in a clean glass container.
- Steep the urtica dioica and vodka mixture in a cool dark place for approximately 2 to 3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin.
The tincture's natural ingredients, such as aloe vera gel and essential oils, work together to calm the scalp and reduce itching caused by conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or eczema. Additionally, aloe's moisturizing effects help to hydrate the scalp, reducing dryness and flaking that can lead to itchiness.
As a result, aloe tinctures provide fast and effective relief from itchy scalps, promoting a healthy and comfortable hair growth environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce itching and irritation on the scalp.
- Alkaloids: Aloe-emodin has been found to possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent infections and reduce inflammation on the scalp, thus alleviating itchiness.
- Polysaccharides: Acemannan has been found to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce redness, itching, and irritation on the scalp, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of aloin and aloe-emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that soothe itchy scalps.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes contain a compound called acemannan, which is known to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help to reduce itchiness and promote healthy scalp growth.
- Stems: The stems of Aloe vera contain a high amount of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and folic acid, which help to nourish and moisturize the scalp, reducing itchiness and flakiness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves for tincture preparation with a length of 4 to 6 inches.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
- Combine the chopped aloe vera pieces with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:5.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
3. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause irritation.
The tannins in tea tree oil also have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and swelling associated with an itchy scalp. Additionally, tea tree's antifungal properties help to control the growth of yeast on the scalp, a common culprit behind dandruff and flakiness.
By targeting these underlying causes, tea tree tinctures provide natural relief from itchiness and promote healthy, balanced skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Cineole: This terpene helps reduce inflammation and soothe itchy scalp by creating a cooling effect and numbing the area.
- Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help combat fungal and bacterial infections that may cause scalp irritation and itchiness.
- Catechin: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with itchy scalp conditions, while also protecting the scalp from further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the primary source of melaleuca oil, which is commonly used to treat itchy scalps due to its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
- Buds: The buds are another rich source of melaleuca oil and are often used to create tinctures for their potential to soothe and calm itchy scalps.
- Stems: The stems of Melaleuca alternifolia may also be used to create tinctures, as they contain some amount of melaleuca oil and may help alleviate itchy scalp issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 1 part of melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers with a clean pair of scissors when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Grind 1 part of dried melaleuca alternifolia material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 part of ground melaleuca alternifolia powder in 2 parts of 80% ethanol at a ratio of 1:2 for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to separate the tincture from the plant material.
4. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its unique blend of essential oils, which work synergistically to calm and soothe irritated skin.
The antifungal and antibacterial properties of the tincture help to reduce inflammation and prevent the overgrowth of yeast on the scalp, a common cause of itchiness.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in Tasmanian blue gum help to reduce redness and itching, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Cineole: It helps with itchy scalp by reducing inflammation and providing anti-itch relief due to its analgesic and antiseptic properties.
- Catechin: It helps with itchy scalp by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and itchiness.
- Α-pinene: It helps with itchy scalp by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing redness and swelling associated with itchy scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high oil content, particularly eucalyptol, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The bark is used for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm itchy scalps.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief from itchiness, often attributed to their eucalyptol content.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for itchy scalp.
- Harvest eucalyptus globulus leaves and flowers at peak potency by cutting them early in the morning when dew is present.
- Dry the eucalyptus globulus leaves and flowers using a food dehydrator on 95 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours.
- Combine 1 part eucalyptus globulus leaves and flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every 2 days.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label the tincture.
5. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied topically, rosemary's natural oils soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and itching caused by conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. Additionally, rosemary's antifungal and antibacterial properties help to control the growth of yeast and bacteria that can contribute to scalp irritation.
By addressing these underlying causes, rosemary tinctures provide effective relief from itchy scalp issues, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, reducing inflammation and soothing the scalp to alleviate itchiness.
- Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm the scalp and reduce itching caused by inflammation or irritation.
- Bornyl acetate: A monoterpenoid that has antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to control fungal infections that can cause an itchy scalp and reduce inflammation to alleviate discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm an itchy scalp.
- Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to reduce scalp irritation.
- Flowers: Rich in essential oils and antioxidants, which can help to calm and soothe an itchy scalp, while also promoting healthy hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for itchy scalp.
- Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and stems in the morning when the plant is at its highest oil content.
- Clean and dry the harvested rosmarinus officinalis material thoroughly to prevent contamination.
- Combine 250 grams of the dried rosmarinus officinalis with 750 milliliters of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.
6. Solanum lycopersicum
Tomato tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of their natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in tomato, such as lycopene and beta-carotene, help to reduce redness and swelling associated with an itchy scalp. Additionally, the astringent and antiseptic qualities of tomato can help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and flakiness.
As a result, using herbal tomato tinctures as a natural remedy can provide relief from the discomfort and irritation caused by an itchy scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solanum lycopersicum tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help soothe and calm irritated skin on the scalp, reducing the sensation of itchiness.
- Phenolic glycosides: These compounds have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections that may be contributing to an itchy scalp.
- Saponins: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help soothe and protect the skin on the scalp from irritation and infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tomato used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: They are used for their antipruritic properties, which help to relieve itchiness and inflammation on the scalp.
- Fruits: The ripe or unripe fruit of the tomato plant is used in tinctures due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe an itchy scalp.
- Seeds: Tomato seeds are used for their potential to reduce inflammation and itching caused by skin conditions on the scalp, as well as for their antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tomato for itchy scalp.
- Harvest ripe solanum lycopersicum fruits and clean them thoroughly to prevent contamination.
- Chop the solanum lycopersicum fruits into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine 1 part of the chopped solanum lycopersicum with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks while shaking the container daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal tincture.
7. Ocimum basilicum
Basil tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The herb's essential oils, particularly eugenol and linalool, work together to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. By applying basil tincture directly to the scalp, you can calm the itchiness caused by dandruff, psoriasis, or other conditions.
Additionally, basil's antifungal properties help combat fungal infections that can contribute to itchy scalps, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ocimum basilicum tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp, providing relief from itchiness.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm the scalp and alleviate itchiness.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect the scalp from damage, reduce inflammation, and soothe itchiness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of basil used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: Ocimum basilicum leaves are commonly used in tinctures due to their high antioxidant and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm the scalp.
- Flowers: The flowers of Ocimum basilicum are used in tinctures to take advantage of their anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, which help reduce itching and inflammation on the scalp.
- Stems: The stems of Ocimum basilicum are used in tinctures due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to dry out the scalp and reduce itching and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic basil for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh ocimum basilicum leaves and flowers by cutting them at the base of the plant.
- Clean the ocimum basilicum leaves and flowers by gently washing them with cold water to remove any dirt.
- Combine the clean ocimum basilicum leaves and flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking of the jar.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle to collect the tincture.
8. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation, providing relief from itchy scalps caused by conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. Additionally, turmeric's antifungal and antibacterial properties help combat underlying infections that can contribute to scalp itchiness.
By reducing inflammation and combating fungal and bacterial overgrowth, turmeric tinctures provide a holistic approach to addressing itchy scalps and promoting healthy hair growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Curcuminoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe itchy scalp conditions.
- Tumerones: Tumerones are sesquiterpene compounds found in turmeric, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to calm and disinfect the scalp and reduce itchiness.
- Ar-turmerone: This sesquiterpene compound has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe itchy scalp conditions, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds like curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe itchy scalps.
- Roots: Roots are also widely used as they contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate itchiness.
- (there are only two parts, but i've included the third most commonly used part for information purposes) stems: Stems, although less commonly used, may contain some bioactive compounds, but their effectiveness is generally lower compared to rhyzomes and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 100 grams of fresh curcuma longa roots and clean them thoroughly under running water.
- Cut the roots into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar.
- Fill a glass jar with 1000 milliliters of 40% ethanol and add the root pieces.
- Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the liquid to a clean glass bottle.
9. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its unique blend of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and soothing properties.
The tincture's ability to calm irritation and reduce redness provides instant relief from itching and scratching. Additionally, the tincture's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can cause itchiness, leaving the scalp feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
By incorporating maidenhair tree tinctures into your hair care routine, you can say goodbye to itchy scalps for good!.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce irritation and inflammation on the scalp, thereby alleviating itchiness.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help control scalp infections and irritation that may cause itchiness.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and promoting healthy scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the scalp.
- Seeds: The seeds are also widely used for their ginkgolic acids, which have been reported to have antipruritic (anti-itch) properties.
- Leaves: Some herbal remedies also use the leaves due to their ability to promote blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which may help alleviate itchy scalp conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for itchy scalp.
- Gather 1 cup of ginkgo biloba leaves and 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the ginkgo biloba leaves in the vodka for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid from the jar using cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Store the tincture in the refrigerator to slow down the extraction process for up to 6 months.
- Shake the jar thoroughly before use and take 20 to 30 drops of the tincture 2 to 3 times daily.
10. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal tinctures helps with itchy scalp because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compound berberine in goldenseal has been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, providing relief from itchy scalps caused by conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. Additionally, goldenseal's antibacterial properties help combat fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to itching and flaking.
By reducing inflammation and killing bacteria, herbal goldenseal tinctures effectively calm an itchy scalp, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with itchy scalp.
- Alkaloids: Berberine, a primary alkaloid in Hydrastis canadensis, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and combat scalp infections that cause itchiness.
- Triterpenoids: The presence of triterpenoids, specifically beta-amyrin and oleanolic acid, in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures may help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itchiness and irritation associated with conditions like dandruff or eczema.
- Phenolics: The phenolic compounds in Hydrastis canadensis, including vanillic acid and protocatechuic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that can help alleviate itchiness and promote a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for itchy scalp.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help soothe an itchy scalp.
- Leaves: The leaves contain similar compounds as the roots, such as berberine, which may help to reduce inflammation and itching associated with scalp conditions.
- Rhyzomes: Although less commonly mentioned than roots, rhyzomes may also contain berberine and other compounds that could contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of the tincture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for itchy scalp.
- Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh or 1-2 pounds of dried roots in late summer or early fall.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine them with 80-100 proof vodka or glycerin in a glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks or 1-2 months.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids.
- Bottle the tincture and label it with the date and ingredients used and store it in a cool dark place.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for itchy scalp?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with itchy scalp is a blend of Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and Calendula (Calendula officinalis).
Tea Tree oil's antimicrobial properties help combat fungal and bacterial infections, while Lavender oil's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the scalp.
Calendula oil's antioxidant properties promote skin regeneration and reduce irritation, making this combination a powerful natural remedy to alleviate itchy scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
What ailments similar to itchy scalp are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to itchy scalp that are treated with herbal tinctures are eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
These conditions can cause dryness, redness, and irritation on the skin, leading to discomfort and itching.
Herbal tinctures such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm these conditions, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin regeneration.