In the quest for a healthy scalp and beautiful hair, the simplest and most effective solutions often lie in ancient traditions. One such timeless remedy is Shikakai Oil — a nourishing herbal elixir that strengthens hair, treats dandruff, calms scalp irritation, and stimulates hair growth. Passed down through generations in Indian households, Shikakai oil remains a cherished secret of natural hair care, especially in Ayurveda.
At Dirghaanshi, we’re dedicated to reviving the powerful wisdom of Jadi Buti (medicinal herbs), and today, we’re going back to the roots — literally! In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make Shikakai oil at home, understand its numerous benefits, and explore the Ayurvedic perspective that makes it so effective for achieving a healthy, balanced scalp.
🌱 Long Description (1500+ Words)
🌿 What is Shikakai?
Shikakai (Acacia concinna) is a thorny shrub native to the Indian subcontinent. Its dried pods, bark, and leaves are powdered and used in hair care due to their high concentration of:
Saponins (natural cleansers)
Vitamin A, C, D, E, and K
Antioxidants
Anti-inflammatory compounds
Tannins
These nutrients help cleanse, soothe, and nourish the scalp, making Shikakai a perfect base for oil infusion.
🧠 Why Use Shikakai Oil?
Shikakai powder is often used in hair masks and herbal rinses, but when infused in oil, its benefits go even deeper. The oil allows longer contact with the scalp, enabling the herb’s active compounds to penetrate and work at the follicular level.
Key Benefits of Shikakai Oil:
✅ Treats dandruff and dry scalp
✅ Reduces scalp inflammation and itching
✅ Strengthens hair follicles
✅ Prevents hair fall
✅ Stimulates hair growth
✅ Adds shine and softness
✅ Balances oil production on the scalp
📜 Ayurvedic Insight on Shikakai Oil
In Ayurveda, Shikakai is known to balance the Pitta and Kapha doshas, which are often responsible for scalp disorders. Its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties help maintain scalp health and hair vitality. When combined with oils like coconut or sesame oil, it becomes a potent scalp therapy that nourishes the roots and calms the mind.
🧴 How to Make Shikakai Oil at Home (Dirghaanshi Special)
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of preparing this Ayurvedic scalp elixir using pure Jadi Buti ingredients.
🪔 Ingredients (For 100 ml Oil)
Ingredient Quantity Role in the Oil
Shikakai Powder 2 tbsp Deep scalp nourishment
Amla Powder 1 tbsp Strengthens follicles and prevents greying
Fenugreek Seeds 1 tsp Reduces hair fall and boosts volume
Coconut or Sesame Oil 100 ml Base oil for infusion
Neem Leaves (optional) 5-6 leaves Antibacterial and dandruff control
🔥 Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Base Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pan or iron kadai, heat 100 ml of coconut or sesame oil on low flame.
Step 2: Add Herbal Ingredients
Once the oil is warm (not too hot), add:
2 tbsp Shikakai powder
1 tbsp Amla powder
1 tsp fenugreek seeds
Neem leaves if using
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Let the herbs infuse on low flame for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Ensure the oil doesn’t smoke — we want a slow herbal infusion.
Step 4: Cool and Strain
Turn off the heat and let the oil cool completely.
Strain the oil using a muslin cloth or fine sieve into a clean glass bottle.
Step 5: Store Safely
Store in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dry place. Shelf life: ~6 months if stored properly.
🛀 How to Use Shikakai Oil for Scalp Health
For Best Results:
Warm a small amount of oil.
Apply directly to the scalp using your fingertips.
Massage in circular motions for 10 minutes to stimulate blood flow.
Leave overnight (or at least 2 hours).
Wash with a mild herbal shampoo or a Shikakai rinse.
🟢 Recommended frequency: 2–3 times per week
✨ Bonus Tip from Dirghaanshi
For added conditioning, mix 1 tsp of castor oil or bhringraj oil into your Shikakai oil before application.
🔁 Variations of Shikakai Oil You Can Try
🟤 Shikakai + Brahmi Oil (For Stress & Hair Fall)
Add 1 tbsp Brahmi powder to the oil mixture for calming effects and stronger hair roots.
🟡 Shikakai + Hibiscus Oil (For Extra Shine)
Add 1 tbsp hibiscus flower powder or petals to the base oil to improve shine and softness.
🟢 Shikakai + Curry Leaves Oil (For Grey Hair)
Add 5–6 curry leaves to the mixture while heating — excellent for darkening and revitalizing hair.
📊 Results You Can Expect
Week Result
1–2 Reduction in itching, dandruff relief
3–4 Less hair fall, scalp feels cleaner
5–6 New baby hair growth, stronger strands
8+ Noticeable shine, volume, and hair strength
Consistency is key — Ayurvedic remedies work gradually but effectively.
🧘♀️ Why Shikakai Oil is Better Than Commercial Oils
Shikakai Oil (Homemade) Commercial Hair Oils
100% natural ingredients Often contains mineral oil & chemicals
Nourishes scalp deeply Coats hair temporarily
Supports long-term growth Temporary results
Chemical-free, safe for kids Often loaded with artificial fragrance
👉 Your scalp deserves plant-based nourishment, not petroleum byproducts!
🌺 Dirghaanshi Herbal Promise
Our mission at Dirghaanshi is to bring back the lost wisdom of Bharatiya Jadi Butiyan. Our recommended Shikakai is:
100% Pure & Organic
Sun-dried & Stone-ground
Ethically Sourced from Herbal Farms
Free from sulfates, parabens, and artificial preservatives
We believe in beauty rooted in Ayurvedic balance, not temporary chemical cosmetics.
📝 Conclusion
In an age where hair loss, scalp irritation, and weak strands are common complaints, returning to Shikakai oil is a step toward natural healing and holistic hair care. Making your own Shikakai oil at home ensures purity, potency, and personal connection to the age-old remedies of Ayurveda.
With regular use, this oil not only cleanses and soothes the scalp but also nourishes every strand, from root to tip. Whether you’re struggling with dandruff, hair fall, or just want to promote thicker, shinier hair — Shikakai oil is a solution that works with your body, not against it.
So go ahead — roll up your sleeves, gather your herbs, and make your very own bottle of Ayurvedic magic at home. Your hair and scalp will thank you — naturally.
