In the quest for healthy, shiny hair, many gardeners turn to the benefits of nature. So, why not combining gardening and beauty by creating a plant-based lotion specifically designed to make your hair radiant? In this tutorial, we will teach you how to make a homemade lotion using selected plants known for their ability to enhance and shine your hair. Besides being economical and eco-friendly, this plant lotion recipe is an excellent way to personalise your hair care. So, put down your gardening gloves, take off your boots, and it's time to take care of yourself!
Why choosing a plant-based lotion?
Plants have been used for millennia for their medicinal, healing, and aesthetic properties. In the realm of hair care, they offer a natural alternative to industrial products often filled with chemical components.
Natural ingredients deeply nourish hair, providing shine and vitality without the unwanted side effects of synthetic products found in industrial care.
Moreover, making your own lotion allows you to customise the formula according to the specific needs of your hair while contributing to the reduction of plastic waste. In short, it’s an ecological and beneficial approach for both your hair and the planet.
Which herbs and plants to choose?
The first step in creating your lotion is to choose the right plants for your hair needs. Here are a few known for their effectiveness in hair care:
- Dioecious nettle (Urtica dioica): Rich in minerals and vitamins, this variety of nettle is ideal for adding strength and shine to hair.
- German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): This chamomile is known for its lightening and soothing properties, making it ideal for light or sensitive hair.
- Common rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Not only excellent in cooking, this variety of rosemary also stimulates hair growth and leaves a pleasant fragrance.
Tip: You can also mix different plants to create a lotion with multiple effects.
Required materials
Making a plant lotion does not require a sophisticated arsenal of tools. You will need:
- 250 ml of apple cider vinegar
- 100 ml of coconut oil
- A large bowl
- A saucepan
- A filter or fine sieve
- A glass bottle or jar to store your lotion
- A wooden spoon
- A funnel
- 50 grams of fresh plants or 25 grams of dried plants.
Tip: you can prepare a lotion with three plants to obtain the multiple benefits of them. For fresh plants: 25g of dioecious nettle with 15g of German chamomile and 10g of common rosemary. For dried plants, use 12g of dioecious nettle with 7g of German chamomile and 5g of common rosemary.
Preparation steps
1- If your plants are fresh, rinse them with clear water to remove any residues and insects.
2- Place the plants in a large bowl. You can mix the three types of plants or prepare separate lotions according to your needs.
3- Add 100 ml of coconut oil to the mixture.
4- Use a wooden spoon to thoroughly mix the oil with the plants, then transfer the mixture to a saucepan.
5- Add the apple cider vinegar and mix again.
6- Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it steep for 20 to 30 minutes.
7- Use a coffee filter or fine sieve to separate the plants from the lotion, keeping only the liquid.
8- Using a funnel, transfer the lotion into an airtight glass bottle.
Storage and shelf life
- Store the bottle in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
- If well stored, the lotion can last up to 1 month, especially if kept in the refrigerator. However, it is recommended to regularly check its colour and smell to ensure it is still good to use.
- Shake the bottle well before each use. If the lotion has been stored in the refrigerator, place it at room temperature for a few minutes before applying.
Use and application
To fully enjoy the benefits of your plant lotion, it is important to apply it correctly. Follow these steps for shiny, healthy hair:
Frequency of application
Use this lotion 2 to 3 times a week for optimal results.
Instructions for use
- Before the first application: perform a patch test 24 hours prior to use to check for any allergic reactions.
- For better absorption of the ingredients, apply the lotion to clean, damp hair, ideally after your usual shampoo.
- Pour a generous amount of the lotion into the palm of your hand and apply it to your hair, focusing on the lengths and ends.
- Gently massage the scalp with your fingers to stimulate blood circulation.
- Leave the lotion on for 20 to 30 minutes. To maximise effectiveness, you can wrap your hair in a warm towel during this time.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. If necessary, you can then apply your usual conditioner.
- With regular use, you should notice an improvement in terms of shine, softness, and overall health of your hair.
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