Hair and scalp respond beautifully to herbal treatments. Both can benefit from an elderberry rinse. Simmer fresh elderberries in water for fifteen minutes. Strain, cool, and apply after shampooing. Wait five minutes, rinse in cool water, and then rinse again with cider vinegar (one teaspoon) to two cups of cold water. Hair will be shiny and luxurious.

Dry, over processed hair can benefit from an application of one teaspoon borax to half gallon of warm water, one teaspoon cider vinegar, and ten drops chamomile essential oil blended together. Try rinsing out and leaving in to see which works best for hair and scalp type.

Oily hair rinse includes mint, rosemary, the juice of one lemon, a splash of witch hazel, and a cup of boiling water. Steep for fifteen minutes, strain, and use while still warm, but not hot.

A good remedy for limp hair is a mixture of fresh rosemary steeped in a cup of water, two tablespoons beer, and lemon juice. Apply to hair as final rinse.

Blonde hair benefits from a rinse of lemon juice, water, and chamomile tea. Brunette hair rinse consists of cinnamon sticks (four) and water or coffee (one cup). Steep one hour before use. For darker hair try a half ounce of black walnut hulls or sage leaves to a quart of water. Steep two hours before use. Red hair can be rinsed in red wine or diluted beet root juice. These rinses may be rinsed out or left in depending on hair texture. They may temporarily or permanently lighten, bring out highlights, darken, or change the color of your hair. Test on a hidden section before using on whole head to avoid unexpected results.

Sage is the traditional remedy for dull, gray hair. Drink sage tea and use as hair rinse. Sage, rosemary, and nettle may be combined if desired.

Itchy scalp caused by disrupted natural ph balance can be treated with a tablespoon of cider vinegar, a cup of water, and a splash of aloe vera juice. Also try two tablespoons of cider vinegar and six drops of chamomile essential oil added to an infusion of fresh young nettle tops. Pour over scalp after final rinsing. Massage gently. Do not rinse out. Repeat three times a week.

This old remedy for dandruff has been used since ancient Roman times. Gently simmer nettle tops in 2 pints water. Add a tablespoon of fresh birch leaves during the last thirty minutes. Strain and pour into jar. Apply to hair and scalp three times a week and use as a final rinse after every shampoo.

There are many natural ingredients that make excellent hair and scalp conditioners. Thyme adds shine and luster. Fruit pulp, especially avocado is good, too. Comfrey is soothing for most scalp irritations. Calendula adds body to hair. The list goes on and on.

* Avoid sage if pregnant or epileptic. Never use hot water on the hair or scalp. Longer hair probably requires conditioner to prevent tangles and breakage.