Long before bottled shampoo, women in South Asia washed their hair with three humble ingredients: amla, reetha and shikakai. Today, as more people look for chemical-free hair care, this traditional trio is making a strong comeback.
What Each Ingredient Does
- Reetha (Soapnut): Contains natural saponins that create a mild lather and clean the scalp without stripping all its oils.
- Shikakai (Acacia concinna): A gentle cleanser with a naturally low pH that leaves hair soft and easy to detangle.
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants; traditionally used to strengthen roots, reduce hair fall and delay greying.
Benefits of Amla Reetha Shikakai
- Cleans without sulphates, parabens or artificial fragrance.
- Helps reduce dandruff and an itchy scalp.
- Strengthens hair and reduces breakage.
- Adds natural shine and volume.
- Suitable for the whole family, including people with sensitive scalps.
How to Wash Hair With Amla Reetha Shikakai
- Take 2–3 tablespoons of Amla Reetha Shikakai Mix (more for long hair).
- Add warm water to make a smooth, runny paste — or boil the powder in 2 cups of water for 5 minutes, cool and strain for a liquid shampoo.
- Wet your hair and massage the paste into the scalp for 3–5 minutes.
- Leave it on for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with plain water.
- Use 2–3 times a week.
Tip: It will not foam like shampoo — that is normal. Less foam does not mean less cleaning.
Pre-Wash Oiling for Best Results
Oil your hair the night before with Amla Reetha Shikakai Mix Oil or coconut oil. The herbal wash removes the oil gently and leaves hair nourished, not dry.
Tips for Different Hair Types
- Oily hair: Use a little more reetha and wash every 2–3 days.
- Dry hair: Add a spoon of yoghurt or aloe vera gel to the paste.
- Dandruff: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the mix.
Precautions
Keep the paste away from your eyes — reetha stings. Do a patch test first if you have sensitive skin. Amla may slightly darken very light or bleached hair.
Complete Hair Care Bundle
Get the powder, oil and more in one box with the Amla Reetha Shikakai Haircare Bundle, or explore the full Beauty Corner.
Related read: Tea Tree Oil for Acne, Dandruff and Skin
Frequently Asked Questions
Can amla reetha shikakai stop hair fall?
It strengthens hair and reduces breakage from harsh chemicals. Hair fall caused by medical or hormonal issues needs a doctor's advice.
Can I use it on coloured hair?
It is gentle, but amla may affect some hair colours. Test on a small section first.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medicine or managing a health condition, please talk to your doctor or hakeem before adding a new herb or supplement to your routine.