If you are looking for a natural way to clean and strengthen your hair, the weeds in your backyard might hold the answer. Nettle has been used for centuries in hair care because it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and compounds that soothe the scalp and promote healthy hair. Making your own nettle shampoo is surprisingly simple, affordable, and keeps harsh chemicals away from your body.
In the United States, the most common nettle found in yards, gardens, and along fences is the Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica). This is exactly the plant you want for your homemade shampoo. It is easy to identify by the jagged edges of its green leaves and the tiny, hair-like needles on the stems and leaves that cause a burning or stinging sensation when touched.
Because of the sting, you must wear thick gardening gloves and long sleeves when picking it. Do not worry about the sting in your shampoo, however. Once the nettle is dried, boiled, or crushed, the stinging hairs lose their power completely, making the plant perfectly safe and gentle for your scalp.
The Basic Nettle Shampoo Recipe
The easiest and most effective way to make homemade nettle shampoo is by creating a strong herbal tea (called an infusion) and combining it with a natural, unscented liquid soap, such as liquid castile soap. Castile soap can be found in almost any grocery store or drugstore.
Ingredients for the Base Recipe:
