The tradition of using herbs for hair care is as old as human civilization. Across different cultures, flowers, seeds, roots, and leaves have been relied upon to strengthen strands, restore scalp health, and encourage growth. Three of the most effective natural treatments are chamomile, chebe, and cilantro. Each herb has unique properties that can be tailored to your specific hair needs, whether you want to soothe irritation, promote growth, or retain length.
Chamomile Flowers
Why It Works
Chamomile is a gentle yet powerful flower long valued for its calming and healing effects. On the scalp, it provides anti-inflammatory relief while nourishing roots with vitamins A, calcium, zinc, iron, and antioxidants. These compounds not only soothe irritation but also remove buildup and dead skin cells, keeping follicles healthy and active.
Hair Benefits
- Strengthens roots and minimizes hair fall
- Locks in moisture and prevents dryness
- Soothes inflamed or itchy scalp
- Stimulates blood circulation for growth
- Enhances natural highlights and adds golden tones
- Reduces split ends and dandruff
- Leaves hair soft, shiny, and lightweight
How to Use Chamomile
Hair Rinse: Steep dried chamomile flowers in boiling water and use as a final rinse to refresh hair.
Color Enhancer: Combine chamomile tea with lemon or lime peel for a natural lightening effect, especially for blondes.
Hair Mask: Blend chamomile tea bags with yogurt and grape juice for a softening mask.
Scalp Massage: Mix chamomile oil with jojoba oil and massage into scalp twice weekly.
Bonus Uses
Chamomile is famous for aiding sleep, calming nerves, and easing digestive issues. It’s as useful in your teacup as it is in your hair routine.
Chebe Powder
Why It Works
Chebe is an ancient hair treatment originating from Chad, made from ground cherry seeds, resin, cloves, lavender croton, and stone scent. It is prized for its ability to retain moisture and strengthen hair, helping women grow exceptionally long and thick strands. With antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, it creates a healthy environment for the scalp while protecting the hair shaft from breakage.
Hair Benefits
- Provides deep moisture retention
- Strengthens and thickens strands
- Helps with length retention and detangling
- Balances scalp pH
- Reduces split ends and hair loss
- Removes buildup and fights fungus
- Conditions and protects for fuller, more manageable hair
How to Use Chebe
Hair Mask: Mix powder with rosemary oil, eggs, or shea butter and apply to hair strands (not directly on scalp).
Oil Infusion: Soak chebe powder in olive oil for 10–15 days, strain, and massage into hair and scalp.
Scalp Massage: Use chebe-infused oil directly on the scalp for added protection and hydration.
Tips
Do not massage chebe paste into the scalp, as it is meant primarily for strands. Focus on coating the hair to lock in moisture and strengthen it.
Cilantro (Coriander)
Why It Works
Cilantro, also known as coriander or Chinese parsley, is more than a kitchen herb—it’s a detoxifying and nourishing powerhouse for hair. Its antibacterial and antifungal compounds fight scalp infections, while vitamins A, C, K, and iron feed the follicles. Rich in antioxidants, cilantro also fights free radicals that damage cells and stunt growth.
Hair Benefits
- Stimulates growth and strengthens roots
- Reduces dandruff and scalp dryness
- Prevents hair loss
- Adds nourishment and shine
- Promotes overall scalp balance and health
How to Use Cilantro
Hair Rinse: Wash hair with cilantro-infused water daily for scalp refreshment.
Hair Mask: Blend cilantro leaves with avocado and aloe vera gel, or mix powdered cilantro with oil. Leave for 15–20 minutes before rinsing.
Infusion: Soak cilantro leaves in grapeseed oil and use as a scalp oil.
Scalp Massage: Apply coriander oil directly to the scalp twice a week.
Herbal Tea: Drink warm cilantro juice with honey for added nourishment from within.
Bonus Uses
Cilantro not only strengthens hair but also promotes glowing skin when used regularly.
Chamomile vs. Chebe vs. Cilantro: Which One Do You Need?
Each of these herbs brings something unique to your hair care routine. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Chamomile
- Best for: Sensitive scalps, blondes seeking natural highlights, those struggling with dryness or dandruff.
- Use if: You want soothing, shine, and gentle conditioning.
Chebe
- Best for: Length retention, thick and coarse hair, anyone prone to breakage.
- Use if: You want stronger, thicker, more manageable strands with long-term protection.
Cilantro
- Best for: Weak roots, slow growth, or scalp infections.
- Use if: You need stimulation, detoxification, and root nourishment.
Quick Guide:
- Choose Chamomile for soothing and shine.
- Choose Chebe for strength and length retention.
- Choose Cilantro for growth and scalp health.
Check out our other herbal hair care series: Calendula, Cassia, and Cayenne Pepper for Healthy Growth
Final Thoughts
Chamomile, Chebe, and Cilantro prove that hair health can be nurtured with simple, natural ingredients. Chamomile calms and brightens, Chebe strengthens and protects, while Cilantro detoxifies and stimulates. By rotating or combining these herbs, you can address multiple hair concerns naturally, without relying solely on chemical treatments.
Consistency is key: with regular use, these herbs improve not just the appearance of your hair, but also its long-term strength and vitality.