Aromatic Tresses

Having fragrant hair, isn't a new concept. For ages, women would use flowers or perfume to add a pleasant scent to their hair. In the form of commercial, perfumed shampoos, many times mimicking designer fragrances or fresh flowers, one can easily wash the scent in. But that is all it is many times, scent. Why not use scent and healing combined with essential oils for a nice change? The great part about essential oils, especially the undiluted, Aromatherapy-grade ones, is they can very easily be added to commercial products. About 10 drops (less if you have sensitivities) is all you need. Having real rose shampoo or lavender conditioner can't get much easier. There are a number of essential oils especially indicated for hair and they include:

• Geranium (be careful, it can lighten)
• Rosemary (be careful this darkens hair)
• Lemon
• Lavender

Actually, almost all of the essential oils can be used on the hair but depending on your specific needs, some will work better. One also has to be careful of lightening and darkening that some essential oils may also do to your hair.

One essential oil I have found to do wonders is Oregano. If you don't have the essential oil, you can use the fresh or dried sort from your cupboard. Italian women for many years have been using it on their hair to make it lustrous and it truly does do so. Like rosemary, however, it can slightly darken your hair. I used 5 drops in about 1 cup of filtered water and allowed it to sit 1 day before using it. You can also add a capful of vanilla extract for an absolutely glorious scent combination. It works best after washing your hair and really reduces tangles and frizzes in summer! Quite amazing.

Another great oil for hair is the lemon. It has the reverse effects of oregano, sometimes lightening the hair if one spends much time outdoors in the sun. Not only does it make your hair smell very clean, it removes oil build-up, which is especially a problem in the summer time. Of course, if you would like some nice natural highlights, you can place the lemon oil in some spring water, toss in a bit of fresh zest as well, and place it in an atomizer of small spray bottle. After you wash your hair, spray where desired and let hair air dry. Sitting in the sun isn't needed... it gives you a headache anyway. Walking outdoors on a sunny day hatless, while doing things, will service.

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