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Mahabhringraj Hair Oil | Scientifically Proven Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Fall Control (200ml)
Shikakai is a humble pod-bearing plant deeply revered in Ayurvedic traditions and has been used for centuries to address all of your hair care needs.
Indian ayurvedic references have always advocated the incorporation of natural extracts like Shikakai in hair care to render healthy, long, lustrous locks from root to tip.
This is an all-encompassing guide about Shikakai, including the Ayurvedic view of this herb, its nutrient profile, and its numerous benefits for hair growth.
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Did you know?
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What is Shikakai?
Shikakai is scientifically known as Acacia concinna. It is a climbing shrub from the Indian Subcontinent. Shikakai gets its name from the Sanskrit words "shika," meaning hair, and "kai, " meaning to wash. This quite fits the bill for what we have traditionally used the Shikakai pods for.
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Aspect |
Details |
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Nature |
Climbing shrub |
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Origin |
Central and Southern India |
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Historical Use |
Natural hair cleanser in Ayurveda |
Shikakai has been used for hair care by people in the ancient days as an essential ingredient of Ayurvedic practices. Saponins, present in Shikakai, are natural cleansing agents and can be beneficial for your hair. Sugars include glucose, arabinose, and xylose. From shampoos, oils, and even hair masks to powders, all kinds of products containing this plant's pods, leaves, or bark have long been used to maintain good-quality tresses.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Shikakai
Here’s a look at the Ayurvedic attributes of Acacia concinna -
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Ayurvedic Classification |
Description |
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Rasa (taste) |
Astringent |
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Guna (properties) |
Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry) |
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Virya (potency) |
Ushna (hot) |
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Vipaka (post-digestive effect) |
Madhura |
That is why ancient Ayurveda texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita also mentioned the benefits of using Shikakai to maintain healthy hair. This is considered a great remedy for cleaning the scalp and strengthening hair roots, which can hence grow under better conditions. It also helps with problems like dandruff and scalp irritation.
Nutritional profile of Shikakai
Here is a detailed breakdown of the key nutrients found in Shikakai and how they contribute to hair health:
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Nutrient |
Concentration in Shikakai |
Contribution to Hair Health |
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Vitamin C |
High |
Supports collagen production for stronger hair strands. Promotes hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp. |
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Vitamin B |
Moderate |
Aids in hair growth and prevents premature greying. Helps maintain healthy hair follicles. |
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Iron |
Moderate |
Crucial for healthy hair follicles and for preventing hair loss. Supports oxygen delivery to the scalp for optimal hair growth. |
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Calcium |
Moderate |
Strengthens hair roots and prevents breakage. Supports the structure and integrity of hair. |
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Saponins |
High |
Natural cleansing agents that gently remove impurities from the scalp. Help maintain a healthy, balanced scalp environment. |
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Flavonoids |
Moderate |
Antioxidant properties that protect hair from damage. Support overall hair health and vitality. |
The nutrients present in the herb Shikakai work together to cater to different hair concerns, thus making it a versatile and useful ayurvedic product for enhancing the healthy growth of hair as well as ensuring freedom from many common problems related to hair.
Benefits of Shikakai for Hair Growth
The primary Shikakai benefits for hair growthare -
1. Cleansing properties
Shikakai, like soapberries and balanites aegyptiaca (desert dates), contains saponins, which are natural surfactant agents. They fit the definition of a surfactant to help remove dirt, oil, and product build-up from both scalp and hair without stripping natural oils away, which are necessary for healthy, happy tresses. pH Balance property of Shikakai maintains the scalp’s natural oils.
2. Strengthening hair roots
The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in the nutrient-rich Shikakai are beneficial for nourishing hair follicles and strengthening your scalp's roots. This prevents the hair shaft from breaking and forming split ends, meaning your long and healthy hair will last longer.
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Nutrient |
Role |
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Vitamins |
Strengthen follicles, prevent breakage |
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Minerals |
Support scalp health |
3. Promoting hair growth
Because Shikakai aids in strengthening hair roots it is also helpful in promoting hair growth. Because of this, Shikakai is widely used in all hair oils, masks, and shampoos as a part of Ayurvedic practices.
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Benefit |
Description |
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Improved Circulation |
Stimulates hair follicles |
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Scalp Health |
Reduces infections, promotes growth |
4. Dandruff and scalp health
The anti-fungal and antibacterial properties of Shikakai help prevent dandruff while simultaneously promoting a well-functioning, clean scalp. This, in turn, promotes healthy hair.
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Property |
Effect |
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Antifungal |
Prevents dandruff |
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Antibacterial |
Maintains scalp cleanliness |
How to Use Shikakai for Hair Growth
Let’s look at the various ways in which it can be used to get Shikakai benefits for hair growth.
1. Shikakai powder
For best results, mix the powder with water and, make a paste out of it, and apply it to the scalp as well as the hair & gently massage. Simply rinse clean and experience the cleansing, nourishing effects.
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Aspect |
Detail |
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Powder |
Hair cleanser. Strengthens roots. |
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Mixing Ratio |
1:2 (Shikakai to water) |
2. Shikakai oil
Mixing Shikakai with a carrier oil like coconut or almond can make for an ideal hair growth treatment. Apply the oil to your scalp and massage before washing off after about 30 min - 1 hour.
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Aspect |
Detail |
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Oil |
Scalp massage. Promotes growth. |
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Infusion Time |
2-3 weeks |
3. Shikakai shampoo
Using Shikakai in a shampoo formulation allows you to experience mild and soothing deep cleaning while administering Shikakai's rejuvenating components. Use a Shikakai-containing shampoo for complete hair care.
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Aspect |
Detail |
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Shampoo |
Daily cleanser. Nourishes hair. |
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Benefits |
Maintains natural oils. Reduces dandruff. |
4. DIY Shikakai Hair Masks
Mix the powder with honey, yoghurt, or aloe vera to create your own Shikakai hair mask. Simply apply the mask onto the scalp and hair, let it sit for 20-30 minutes, and rinse it clean. This deep-conditioning treatment will help stimulate your hair growth and promote healthier locks.
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Aspect |
Detail |
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Yoghurt |
Conditioning. Strengthens hair. |
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Aloe Vera |
Moisturising. Soothing. |
Comparison table: Shikakai vs. other Ayurvedic Hair Care Ingredients
Here is a comparison table for Shikakai, Reetha, Amla, and Hibiscus based on ingredients, properties, benefits, and use in Ayurveda:
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Ingredient |
Key Ingredients |
Properties |
Benefits |
Use in Ayurveda |
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Shikakai (Acacia concinna) |
Saponins, amino acids, vitamins A, D, C, K, calcium, iron, magnesium |
Cleansing, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, pH balancing |
Cleanses hair and scalp, promotes hair growth, treats dandruff |
Used as a natural shampoo, hair conditioner, and treatment for hair and scalp issues |
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Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi) |
Saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acids |
Cleansing, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory |
Cleanses hair and scalp, treats dandruff and hair fall, conditions hair |
Used as a natural shampoo and hair cleanser, especially for oily hair and scalp |
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Amla (Emblica officinalis) |
Vitamin C, tannins, flavonoids, amino acids |
Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, hair growth-promoting |
Promotes hair growth, prevents premature greying, treats dandruff, conditions hair |
Used as a hair tonic, conditioner, and treatment for various hair and scalp issues |
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Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) |
Mucilage, flavonoids, anthocyanins, amino acids |
Cleansing, conditioning, hair growth promoting |
Cleanses hair, promotes hair growth, conditions hair, prevents hair fall |
Used as a natural shampoo, hair conditioner, and treatment for hair growth and hair fall |
Scientific Studies and Evidence
Shikakai has passed several scientific studies on its effect, the most important being hair care. Studies have demonstrated that Shikakai's saponins, vitamins, and antioxidants can help cleanse the scalp, improve hair strength, and stimulate the growth of new hair. Traditional Ayurveda practices also share anecdotal evidence supporting the benefits of Shikakai for a range of hair-related problems.
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Study |
Findings |
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Pradhan et al. |
Shikakai reduces water surface tension |
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Antibacterial and Antifungal Studies |
Effective against various** bacteria and fungi |
** [ Bacteria and fungi include Bacillus subtilis, Ganoderma lucidum, Proteus vulgaris, Micrococcus luteus, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Cryptococcus neoformans and Penicillium marneffei, Streptococcus aeruginosa, dermatophytes, Escherichia coli ]
Do check our related guides:
- how to use Kalonji seeds for hair growth
- benefits of heena for hair
- Ways to increase hair volume
- ayurvedic natural hair colors benefits
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Although Shikakai is generally safe for topical application, skin irritation and allergic reactions are some common side effects. You should do a patch test before you start using Shikakai on your hair. Before using Shikakai-based products, please consult your doctor if you have sensitive skin, eczema, or other scalp issues.
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Potential Consideration |
Precaution |
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Allergic Reaction |
Perform patch test |
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Sensitivity |
Use diluted preparations initially |
Conclusion
With deep Ayurvedic roots and an impressive nutritional profile, Shikakai is a botanical worth adding to your natural arsenal for healthy, vibrant hair. Its powerful cleansing, strengthening, and growth-stimulating properties make it worth including in a well-rounded hair care regime. Using Shikakai in your routine gives you access to the ancient wisdom of Ayurvedic hair care.
FAQs
1. Is Shikakai suitable for all hair types?
Yes, Shikakai is generally suitable for all hair types, including dry, oily, and normal hair. Its gentle cleansing properties make it a versatile option.
2. Can Shikakai be used daily?
Shikakai can be used daily, but it's recommended to start with 2-3 times per week and gradually increase the frequency based on your hair's response.
3. How long does it take to see results from using Shikakai?
The results from using Shikakai can vary, but most people report seeing improvements in hair growth, strength, and scalp health within 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
4. Can Shikakai be used with other hair care products?
Yes, Shikakai can be combined with other Ayurvedic ingredients like Amla, Reetha, or Hibiscus for a more comprehensive hair care routine.
5. Is Shikakai safe for coloured or chemically treated hair?
Shikakai is generally safe for coloured or chemically treated hair, but it's always a good idea to do a patch test first and monitor your hair's response.
References
- Shikakai is scientifically known as Acacia concinna (https://www.sciencedirect.com/)
- Saponins, present in Shikakai, are natural cleansing agents.(https://www.sciencedirect.com/)
- Sugars include glucose, arabinose, and xylose ((https://www.sciencedirect.com/
- pH Balance property of Shikakai maintains the scalp’s natural oils.(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
- Shikakai reduces water surface tension (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
- Bacteria and fungi include Bacillus subtilis, Ganoderma lucidum, Proteus vulgaris, Micrococcus luteus, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Cryptococcus neoformans and Penicillium marneffei, Streptococcus aeruginosa, dermatophytes, Escherichia coli (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
