As we age, changes in hair colour are a natural part of life. Hair may turn grey or white as melanin production slows down. While this is a normal biological process, many individuals seek safe, natural options to temporarily enhance the appearance of their hair colour. In this article, we explore gentle, plant-based home remedies and hair dye alternatives that may support healthier-looking hair without harsh chemical dyes.
Plant-Based Hair Toning Ideas for Hair
These home remedies are traditional and popular for temporarily supporting the appearance of darker or more vibrant hair. It is crucial to note that results may vary significantly among individuals and are not permanent [1].
1. Amla and Henna for Deep Conditioning and Colour
A combination of amla (Indian Gooseberry) and henna is often used in traditional practices to temporarily enhance hair tone and texture [2].
Ingredients:
-
- Fresh henna paste – 1 cup
- Amla powder – 3 tbsp
- Coffee powder – 1 tsp
- Bowl, gloves, brush
Method:
-
- Mix all ingredients into a smooth paste.
- Apply evenly to hair using a brush, ensuring full coverage of the strands.
- Leave for 45–60 minutes or until dry.
- Rinse with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
2. Traditional Henna Hair Application
Henna (Lawsonia inermis) has been used historically for temporary colour enhancement and may help support scalp health [2].
Ingredients:
-
- Henna powder – 4 tbsp
- Black tea – 2 tsp
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
- Amla powder – 1 tbsp
Method:
-
- Soak henna overnight in water.
- In the morning, brew and cool black tea.
- Mix tea, lemon juice, and amla powder into the henna paste.
- Apply, leave for 45–60 minutes, and rinse with sulfate-free shampoo.
3. Coconut Oil and Lemon Juice for Scalp Massage
This blend is popularly used in folklore and is thought to help support scalp health, though direct scientific evidence for reversing hair greying is limited.
Ingredients:
-
- Virgin Coconut oil – 2 tbsp
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
Method:
-
- Mix and gently massage into the scalp.
- Leave for 30 minutes before rinsing.
4. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) Hair Pack
Amla, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, is commonly used in traditional practices to support hair tone and overall hair structure [3].
Ingredients:
-
- Amla powder – 1 tbsp
- Coconut oil – 3 tbsp
Method:
-
- Heat oil and amla powder over low heat until slightly charred.
- Cool, strain (optional), and apply to the scalp and hair.
- Leave for 1 hour or overnight.
5. Chamomile Tea for Subtle Light Tones
Chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita) is traditionally used to naturally enhance the appearance of lighter or golden hair tones [4]. This remedy is not for darkening grey hair.
Method:
-
- Brew 2 cups of strong tea and cool completely.
- Use as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning.
6. Fenugreek Seeds for Scalp and Hair Conditioning
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) contains nutrients that may support scalp and hair health and is often used to condition the hair [5].
Ingredients:
-
- Fenugreek seeds – 1/4 cup
- Coconut oil – 1/2 cup
Method:
-
- Boil seeds in oil for 6–8 minutes until the seeds turn reddish.
- Cool, strain, and massage into the scalp.
- Leave overnight; rinse in the morning.
7. Nourishing Hair Oils for Vitality
Regular oiling can support scalp hydration and hair vitality [3]. Oils like Black Seed (Nigella sativa) or Castor Oil are commonly used to improve hair shine and manageability.
Method:
-
- Warm your preferred oil slightly.
- Massage into scalp and wrap hair in a warm towel.
- Leave for 30 minutes, then rinse with a mild cleanser.
8. Onion Juice Blend (Catalase)
Onion juice is cited in some research as a source of catalase, an enzyme traditionally associated with the reduction of oxidative stress in the body [6].
Ingredients:
-
- Onion juice – from 1 onion (strained)
- Coconut oil – 3 tbsp
Method:
-
- Mix and apply to the scalp.
- Leave for 25–30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly to remove the odour.
9. Commercial Vegetable-Based Hair Dyes
Some commercially available vegetable-based dyes (often incorporating ingredients like indigo or beet root) are marketed as gentler alternatives to chemical hair dyes. These should not be confused with the home remedies listed above. Always follow manufacturer instructions for these products.
Method:
-
- Prepare and apply as per label directions.
- Leave for the suggested duration.
- Rinse with sulfate-free shampoo.
Conclusion
Embracing grey hair is a personal choice. For those who wish to temporarily enhance or maintain their natural hair colour appearance, these plant-based remedies offer gentle alternatives to conventional dyes. While natural methods may require consistent, long-term use and may not yield immediate or drastic results, they are often kinder to the scalp and hair due to the absence of harsh synthetic chemicals. Remember, results can vary based on individual hair types, original colour, and condition. Prioritising overall hair health through proper nutrition, hydration, and scalp care can also contribute to stronger, more vibrant-looking hair over time.
Disclaimer
The above remedies are for informational purposes only and are based on traditional and folk practices. These suggestions are not a guarantee of efficacy or a permanent solution for hair greying. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. Always conduct a patch test on a small area of skin before applying any new substance to your hair or scalp. If you have known allergies, pre-existing scalp conditions, or are unsure about any treatment, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional immediately.
References
[1] Cui, H., Xie, W., Hua, Z., Cao, L., Xiong, Z., Tang, Y., & Yuan, Z. (2022). Recent Advancements in Natural Plant Colourants Used for Hair Dye Applications: A Review. Molecules, 27(22), 8062. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27228062
[2] Sang, S.-H., Gabriel Akyirem Akuwoah, Kai Bin Liew, Lee, S.-K., Keng, J.-W., Lee, S.-K., Yon, J.-A.-L., Ching Siang Tan, & Yik Ling Chew. (2023). Natural alternatives from your garden for hair care: Revisiting the benefits of tropical herbs. Heliyon, 9(11), e21876–e21876. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21876
[3] Kaushik, V., Kumar, A., Gosvami, N. N., Gode, V., Mhaskar, S., & Kamath, Y. (2022). Benefit of Coconut‐Based Hair Oil via Hair Porosity Quantification. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12774
[4] Gupta, S. (2010). Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with a bright future. Molecular Medicine Reports, 3(6). https://doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2010.377
[5] Faisal, Z., Irfan, R., Akram, N., Hafiz, Mohib Ali Aabdi, Muhammad Junaid Anwar, Sharjeel Khawar, Saif, A., Yasir Abbas Shah, Muhammad Afzaal, & Derese Tamiru Desta. (2024). The multifaceted potential of fenugreek seeds: From health benefits to food and nanotechnology applications. Food Science & Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.3959
[6] Gopinath, G., Saravanakumar, D., Vijayalakshmi, R., & Saranya, S. (2024). A comprehensive review on natural remedies for hair greying. International Journal of Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, 15(1), 164–172. https://jprsolutions.info/files/journals/1/Articles/IJRPS/V15I1/IJRPS_15.01.2024_03.pdf
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