Amla, Reetha and Shikakai Hair Pack: The Complete Guide to the Classic Herbal Hair Wash

If there is one herbal hair recipe that every Indian grandmother knows, it is amla, reetha and shikakai. Each of the three does a different job, and together they clean, condition and strengthen hair without a single chemical. Switching to this wash is the single biggest step most people can take toward healthier hair.

What each ingredient does

• Reetha (aritha, soapnut): the cleanser. Its saponins lift oil and dirt from the scalp.
• Shikakai: the conditioner. It detangles, softens and keeps the pH low.
• Amla: the strengthener. Its vitamin C and tannins reduce hair fall and slow greying.

The standard ratio

For medium-length hair:

• Two tablespoons of reetha powder
• One tablespoon of shikakai powder
• One tablespoon of amla powder

Adjust the reetha up for oily hair and the shikakai up for dry hair. Double everything for long or thick hair.

Method 1: Soaked liquid wash

• Mix the powders in two cups of warm water.
• Soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best results.
• Stir well, then strain through a fine cloth if you want a residue-free wash.
• Pour over wet hair in sections, massage the scalp for three minutes and rinse thoroughly.

Method 2: Thick pack

• Mix the powders with just enough warm water or rose water to form a smooth paste.
• Apply on the scalp and lengths like a hair mask.
• Leave for 20 to 30 minutes and rinse well.

The pack gives stronger conditioning and is better for very dry or damaged hair. The liquid wash is quicker and better for regular use.

Variations for specific concerns

• For dandruff: add one teaspoon of neem powder and a squeeze of lemon.
• For hair fall: add one tablespoon of bhringraj powder and use the thick pack method.
• For dry, frizzy hair: add two tablespoons of curd or one tablespoon of hibiscus powder.
• For an oily scalp: add one tablespoon of multani mitti and use the liquid wash method twice a week.
• For shine: finish with a rose water rinse and do not wash it out.

How often to use it

Twice a week is ideal for most people. Those with very oily hair can use it three times a week. People with dry hair may prefer once a week with the thick pack method and a plain water rinse in between.

What to expect in the first month

• Week 1: hair may feel less slippery and slightly rougher as silicone build-up washes out.
• Week 2: the scalp starts producing less oil and hair stays fresh longer.
• Week 3 to 4: hair feels softer, has more volume at the roots and sheds less in the comb.

Stay with it. The adjustment period is short and the results are long lasting.

Tips for success

• Buy fine, pure powders with no fillers. Coarse powders leave residue.
• Always soak before use. Dry powder does not clean.
• Rinse longer than usual and comb through under running water.
• Keep the mixture out of your eyes.
• Store any leftover liquid in the fridge for up to three days.

Herbal hair powders from PurePetal Naturals

PurePetal Naturals makes chemical-free, paraben-free herbal powders in Ahmedabad. Multani mitti is available now and is a great addition to this wash for oily scalps. Amla, reetha and shikakai powders are part of the range we are building, and the recipe above works with any pure version of these three ingredients.