By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Oily Hair
Herbal teas for oily hair are a natural remedy that uses the antioxidants and antifungal properties of herbs to balance the scalp's oil production and reduce greasiness.
Examples of beneficial herbal teas include peppermint, sage, and rosemary, which help to purify the scalp and stimulate blood flow.
By incorporating these teas into one's hair care routine, individuals can experience reduced oiliness, improved scalp health, and a fresher, cleaner feel, ultimately enhancing their overall confidence and well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for oily hair, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Sesamum indicum
- 3. Camellia sinensis
- 4. Cymbopogon citratus
- 5. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 6. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 7. Ginkgo biloba
- 8. Lavandula angustifolia
- 9. Thymus vulgaris
- 10. Eucalyptus globulus
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for oily hair?
- What ailments similar to oily hair are treated with herbal teas?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with oily hair because of its unique ability to balance scalp pH and reduce oil production.
The gel from the aloe plant contains salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the scalp, removing dead skin cells and impurities that can clog pores and contribute to oily hair. By drinking aloe vera tea, you can promote a healthy scalp and reduce oiliness, leaving your hair looking cleaner and healthier for longer.
It also helps to regulate hair growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with oily hair.
- Chromone: Chromone, specifically aloin, has been shown to reduce oil production in the scalp, thereby helping to control oily hair.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Aloe vera help to balance the scalp's natural pH, reducing oil production and preventing excessive oil buildup on the hair.
- Saponins: Saponins in Aloe vera have astringent properties, which help to reduce oiliness and clean the scalp, promoting a healthier and more balanced scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part for teas, as they contain a high concentration of aloin and aloe-emodin, which help to balance oil production and reduce inflammation in the scalp.
- Stems: Aloe vera stems are also used for teas, as they contain compounds like aloe-ester and aloe-glycoprotein that help to regulate oil production and promote a healthy scalp.
- Barks: Although less commonly used, aloe vera bark is sometimes used for teas, as it contains aloe-verine, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and help to soothe an itchy scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for oily hair.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling aloe vera gel to avoid contamination.
- Cut an aloe vera leaf lengthwise to extract the gel inside with a spoon.
- Mix 3 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot.
- Serve the aloe vera tea immediately and let it cool to room temperature within 30 minutes.
2. Sesamum indicum
Sesamum indicum, also known as sesame, teas helps with oily hair because of its natural astringent and antiseptic properties.
The tea's active compounds help to balance the scalp's pH levels, reduce oil production, and control sebum buildup. Sesame tea also has antifungal properties that prevent infections and inflammation, promoting a healthy scalp environment. Regular consumption of sesame tea can help to regulate the scalp's natural oil production, leading to reduced oiliness and a healthier-looking mane.
This natural remedy offers a chemical-free solution for oily hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesamum indicum teas that help with oily hair.
- Sesamin: Sesamin, a lignan constituent, has been found to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in controlling the growth of bacteria and fungi on the scalp that contribute to oily hair.
- Sesamolin: Sesamolin, another lignan constituent, is known to have antioxidant properties that help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp, thereby controlling the production of sebum and reducing oily hair.
- Fatty acids: Sesamum indicum teas contain fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which help in regulating the production of sebum in the scalp, thereby reducing oily hair and promoting healthy hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sesame used to make teas for oily hair.
- Seeds: Sesame seeds are often used to make teas that help balance oil production and reduce greasiness due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Sesame leaves are used in teas to control sebum production, reduce dandruff, and soothe an itchy scalp.
- Flowers: Sesame flowers are used in teas to help reduce excess oil and promote a healthy scalp due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sesame for oily hair.
- Harvest 2-3 grams of sesamum indicum leaves and flowers at dawn on a dry day.
- Dry the harvested sesamum indicum leaves and flowers in a warm place for 2-3 days.
- Grind 1-2 grams of dried sesamum indicum leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground powder in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to serve warm or at room temperature immediately.
3. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, teas helps with oily hair because of its astringent properties.
The catechins present in Camellia sinensis teas help to balance the scalp's natural pH, reducing oil production and promoting a healthy scalp environment. Additionally, the antioxidants in these teas help to regulate the hair growth cycle, preventing excessive oil secretion and promoting a balanced hair texture. This makes Camellia sinensis teas an effective natural remedy for controlling oily hair.
Regular consumption can lead to a healthier and more balanced scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis teas that help with oily hair.
- Catechins: These powerful phenolic compounds help reduce oil production in the scalp by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in oil secretion, thereby minimizing hair oiliness.
- Flavonoids: As potent antioxidants, flavonoids like Quercetin help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to oily hair.
- Theaflavins: These unique flavanols formed during tea fermentation have been shown to possess anti-androgenic properties, which can help regulate sebum production in the scalp and reduce oily hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: Used to make tea that helps to balance oil production in the scalp and reduce dandruff.
- Buds: Used to make tea that helps to regulate oil production and soothe an itchy scalp.
- Stems: Not commonly used, but some teas may use Camellia sinensis stems to add antioxidants and help balance oil production in the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for oily hair.
- Select 5 grams of high-quality camellia sinensis leaves for a single serving of tea.
- Rinse the camellia sinensis leaves in cold water for 10 seconds to remove impurities.
- Boil fresh water in a teapot for 3-5 minutes or until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Steep the camellia sinensis leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release flavors.
- Strain the tea into a cup and let it cool for 2-3 minutes to reach a comfortable temperature.
4. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with oily hair because of its natural astringent and antiseptic properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, help to balance the scalp's natural oil production and reduce excess sebum. This, in turn, minimizes the appearance of greasiness and leaves hair looking healthier and more manageable.
Regular consumption of lemongrass tea may also help to regulate the scalp's pH levels, promoting a balanced and healthy scalp environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with oily hair.
- Limonene: This terpene helps reduce sebum production, thereby controlling oily hair and scalp conditions.
- Geraniol: As a natural astringent and antiseptic, geraniol helps to balance the scalp's natural pH, reducing oil production and preventing clogged pores.
- Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help to control the growth of bacteria and fungi on the scalp, which can contribute to oily hair and scalp conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Cymbopogon citratus for teas as they are rich in essential oils, particularly limonene and geraniol, which help in balancing oil production in the scalp.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are also used for teas as they contain a high concentration of citronella oil, which helps in reducing oil production and promoting a healthy scalp.
- Roots: The roots are sometimes used for teas as they contain a mix of essential oils, including geraniol and limonene, which help in balancing oil production and reducing dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for oily hair.
- Harvest 1-2 bunches of the herb, cutting the stalks at a 45-degree angle to promote new growth.
- Rinse the harvested herb in cold running water to remove any dirt or debris from the roots.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried herb or 2-3 sprigs of fresh herb in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Serve the tea hot or iced, garnished with a slice of citrus fruit and a sprig of the herb.
5. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with oily hair because of its stimulating properties that improve blood circulation to the scalp.
This increased flow of oxygen and nutrients helps to balance the oil production in the hair follicles, reducing excess oil and greasiness. Additionally, rosemary's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help to control scalp infections and irritation, promoting a healthy scalp environment and reducing the likelihood of oily hair.
Regular consumption of rosemary tea may also help to strengthen hair follicles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with oily hair.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene helps reduce oil production in the scalp by inhibiting the activity of sebum-producing enzymes, thereby controlling oily hair.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic diterpene has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the scalp, reduce irritation, and promote a balanced oil production, leading to healthier and less oily hair.
- Bornyl acetate: This monoterpenic compound has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help control scalp infections and promote a healthy scalp environment, reducing the likelihood of oily hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: Leaves: The leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis are commonly used to make tea for oily hair as they contain rosmarinic acid, which helps to balance scalp pH and reduce oil production.
- Flowers: Flowers: The flowers of Rosmarinus officinalis are used in tea for oily hair as they have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Leaves: Buds: Buds: Rosmarinus officinalis buds are also used to make tea for oily hair as they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce oil production and soothe the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for oily hair.
- Gather 2 teaspoons of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves and store them in an airtight container.
- Heat 8 ounces of water in a kettle to a rolling boil for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Steep the rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before serving.
6. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, teas helps with oily hair because of its natural antiseptic and antifungal properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as cineole and terpinen-4-ol, work to balance the scalp's pH, reducing oil production and preventing clogged pores. This results in a healthier scalp and reduced oiliness, leaving hair looking cleaner and fresher for longer.
Regular use of tea tree tea may also help to purify the scalp, reducing dandruff and promoting a balanced hair growth cycle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with oily hair.
- Cineole: This terpene helps reduce sebum production, which can contribute to oily hair.
- Cymene: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help control the growth of bacteria on the scalp, which can lead to oily hair and dandruff.
- Linalool: This terpene has a balancing effect on the scalp's oil production, helping to regulate sebum levels and reduce the appearance of oily hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and essential oils, which help to balance oil production in the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
- Buds: The buds contain antimicrobial properties that help to control oil and reduce inflammation in the scalp, leading to a healthier and more balanced hair.
- Stems: The stems are used to extract essential oils, which have antiseptic and antifungal properties that help to regulate oil production and prevent scalp irritations.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for oily hair.
- Harvest 10-20 grams of dried leaves from the melaleuca alternifolia plant with scissors.
- Steep the dried leaves in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes gently.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup immediately.
- Add honey or other sweeteners to taste but no more than 1 teaspoon per cup.
- Allow the tea to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to your guests.
7. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with oily hair because of its ability to balance scalp sebum production.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth. The tea's anti-oxidant properties also work to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing the production of excess oil that can lead to oily hair.
Regular consumption of Ginkgo biloba tea may help to achieve a healthier, more balanced scalp and hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with oily hair.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds can help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which may help to slow down the production of sebum, a major contributor to oily hair.
- Bilobalide: A sesquiterpene trilactone found in Ginkgo biloba, bilobalide has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce the occurrence of scalp conditions that contribute to oily hair.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid found in Ginkgo biloba, quercetin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce the production of sebum and promote a healthier scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: Leaves of Ginkgo biloba are often used to make teas for oily hair as they have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to balance the scalp's natural oil production.
- Buds: The buds of Ginkgo biloba contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy scalp, making them suitable for teas to combat oily hair.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are sometimes used in teas for oily hair due to their ability to stimulate blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the scalp, which can help to regulate oil production.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for oily hair.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves according to your desired strength.
- Steep the measured leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active ingredients.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.
- Add honey or sugar to taste if desired to sweeten the bitter flavor of the tea.
- Allow the tea to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving and consuming the herbal infusion.
8. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with oily hair because it promotes a balanced scalp and reduces excess oil production.
The tea's antiseptic and antifungal properties combat scalp irritations and infections that can contribute to oily hair. Additionally, the tea's calming properties help to reduce stress, which can cause oil glands to overproduce.
By regulating oil production and promoting a healthy scalp, Lavandula angustifolia tea can help to achieve a cleaner and healthier-looking mane.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with oily hair.
- Linalool: This terpene helps to reduce the production of sebum, the natural oil produced by the hair follicles, thereby reducing the appearance of oily hair.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene ester, linalyl acetate has antiseptic and antifungal properties that help to control the growth of bacteria and fungi that can contribute to oily hair and scalp conditions.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe an itchy scalp, reduce inflammation, and prevent the buildup of oil and dirt on the hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent properties that help balance oil production in the scalp.
- Flowers: They are used for their calming and antiseptic effects, which can reduce oil production and promote a healthy scalp.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to help regulate oil production and reduce inflammation in the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for oily hair.
- Harvest 20-30 dried flowers of lavandula angustifolia for 1 teaspoon dosage at 7-8 am.
- Steep the dried flowers in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes at 10 am.
- Strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth at 10:15 am.
- Drink the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours at 10:30 am.
- Consume 1-2 cups of the herbal tea 2-3 times a day for optimal benefits at 11 am.
9. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with oily hair because it possesses antiseptic and antifungal properties that control scalp infections and reduce oil production.
The tea's astringent properties also help to tighten pores and balance the scalp's natural pH, preventing excessive oil secretion. Additionally, thyme tea's ability to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy scalp circulation may help to reduce dandruff and other scalp irritations associated with oily hair.
This can result in a healthier and more balanced scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with oily hair.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol helps with oily hair by its antimicrobial properties, which reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to oil production and scalp irritation.
- Thymol: Thymol helps with oily hair by its astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce oil production, balance the scalp's pH, and prevent bacterial growth.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene helps with oily hair by its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce scalp inflammation and irritation, thereby reducing the production of oil and promoting a healthier scalp.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: Rich in antiseptic and astringent properties, thyme leaves help to balance the scalp's oil production and reduce dandruff.
- Buds: Thyme buds have antifungal properties that help control the growth of fungus-related hair problems, such as dandruff and itchiness.
- Flowers: Thyme flowers have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing oiliness and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for oily hair.
- Harvest 25-30 fresh or dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers for the tea preparation.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the harvested thymus vulgaris in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Add honey or sugar to taste the tea according to personal preference for sweetness.
- Serve the herbal thymus vulgaris tea immediately after preparation while it is still warm.
10. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with oily hair because its antiseptic and antibacterial properties help to control oil production and purify the scalp.
The tea's decongestant properties also help to reduce inflammation and promote blood flow, allowing for a healthier scalp environment.
By reducing oil buildup and promoting a balanced scalp, Eucalyptus globulus tea can help to regulate oil production and leave hair looking and feeling cleaner for longer.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with oily hair.
- Cineole: This terpene helps to reduce oil production in the scalp by creating an astringent effect, which tightens pores and reduces sebum release.
- Ferulic acid: As a phenolic compound, ferulic acid exhibits antioxidant properties that help to balance the scalp's natural oil production and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to oily hair.
- Linalool: This terpene has astringent and antiseptic properties that help to regulate the scalp's natural pH balance and reduce excessive oil production, thereby controlling oily hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for oily hair.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for oily hair because of their antiseptic and decongestant properties that help to balance the scalp and reduce oil production.
- Buds: They are used to make teas for oily hair because of their astringent and antiseptic properties that help to dry out excess oil and reduce inflammation on the scalp.
- Barks: They are used to make teas for oily hair because of their antiseptic and astringent properties that help to reduce oil production and prevent bacterial growth on the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for oily hair.
- Harvest a sufficient amount of fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves for tea making typically around 2 to 4 teaspoons.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks until they become crumbly.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried leaves for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for oily hair?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with oily hair is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and rosemary.
Peppermint tea helps to balance the scalp's pH and reduce oil production, while chamomile tea soothes the scalp and reduces inflammation. Rosemary tea, rich in antioxidants, promotes healthy hair growth and improves circulation to the scalp.
By steeping these teas in hot water, then applying the cooled liquid to the hair and scalp, you can achieve a healthy, balanced, and oil-free mane.
What ailments similar to oily hair are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to oily hair that are treated with herbal teas are acne, dandruff, and eczema.
Certain herbs like chamomile, calendula, and tea tree extract have natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and redness associated with these conditions.
By incorporating herbal teas into one's routine, individuals can achieve a balanced and healthy scalp and skin, alleviating symptoms of oily hair-related issues.