Potential Uses of Shikakai:
Natural surfactant soap pods have been used for cleansing the scalp, strengthening the hair from the roots, offering relief from scaling, and reducing irritation, dryness, greasiness, and scaling of the scalp since ancient times. Shikakai means “fruit for hair”.
When it comes to hair care, natural herbs are preferred. Shikakai has been utilised for skin and hair care since ancient times, and Ayurveda recognizes its advantages. Shikakai fruit pods that contain tiny seeds are used. Shikakai is a powerful plant that can help with a variety of diseases.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Hair
Shikakai may naturally soften and smoothen hair by releasing essential oils and vitamins that are important for hair growth. It may encourage hair development and may help maintain hair silky and lustrous. When used for hair, shikakai may help with the restoration of hair’s glossy texture, thickness and length. Shikakai is high in important nutrients, thus it may keep hair healthy and prevents breakage and brittleness, which are two of the most prevalent causes of hair loss.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Dandruff:
Due to its potential antifungal, antibacterial, and nutritious characteristics, shikakai may be an excellent remedy for dandruff. No big studies show negative effects and can be used to treat the scalp and get rid of annoying dandruff problems. Shikakai may potentially be used as a common ingredient in hair masks. These cooling packs, which are usually made up of Shikakai, amla, yoghurt, and soap nut, can possibly provide welcome relief during hot weather, a nagging headache, or simply for a peaceful experience on a leisurely day. It may also have some effect on managing hair greying and potentially slow the process by using a hair pack containing shikakai, soap nut, and other herbal components such as amla. If hair are cleaned with shikakai before applying hair dye (even natural hair dye) it may allow the colour to sink in better and remain on for longer.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Hair Lice
Hair lice are an embarrassment and a serious concern. Shikakai, fortunately, also may have potential to help with hair lice. Its low pH value, together with its potential antifungal and antibacterial capabilities, shikakai may be able to help with hair lice issue.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Dry Scalp
Shikakai may be able to help with dry scalp by potentially acting as a natural cleaner that does not remove essential oils.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Minor Wounds:
Shikakai may help to treat minor scrapes and bruises on the scalp due to its potential characteristics. Shampoos and other lotions can irritate sensitive scalp skin but ground roasted shikakai paste may provide significant relief. A smooth pate of shikakai powder with turmeric and fresh neem leaves can be used to heal minor scalp cuts and wounds. This property would need further research to identify benefits of shikai for healing wounds in humans.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Scabies:
Shikakai may be used to treat scabies as an antibacterial wash. To create the wash, you may soak turmeric in hot water for a few minutes and then mash it into a paste. Burn a long slice of shikakai directly in the fire until it gets dark. Allow it to cool before grinding it into a fine powder. Boil water and combine ground turmeric paste and ground shikakai powder. Strain and apply to the afflicted area as an antiseptic wash. Shikakai and turmeric both may have antifungal, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties, making this a good scabies wash. You must consult a doctor before using shikakai for scabies.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Skin:
Mixing a tablespoon of shikakai powder with a tablespoon of cream, almond powder, and turmeric may help to remove dead skin cells and give skin a natural glow. You must discuss with your dermatologist before using shikakai for any skin issues.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Constipation:
The potential suppository and purgative (laxative) properties of shikakai pods maybe helpful in treating constipation and reducing indigestion, abdominal cramps, and flatulence. It aids in the digestion of meals and the passage of faeces through the body. These properties of shikakai may be studied extensively to identify its full potential for human conditions such as constipation.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Gum Infections:
Shikakai’s may have anti-bacterial properties that are crucial in preventing tooth and gum infections. It may also help with tooth decay and plaque build-up, as well as gingivitis and other gum diseases. These conditions may be studied for humans.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Jaundice
Ayurveda states the efficacy of shikakai in the treatment of jaundice. It may help to stimulate the liver. However, if you are suffering from any condition related to liver, consult with a doctor before using shikakai.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Blood Sugar Level
Shikakai powder may help to regulate blood sugar levels to a normal level. It may have effect on keeping the blood sugar level balanced. However this potential property of shikakai needs to be tested further for humans. It is suggested that you must consult a qualified doctor.
Potential Uses of Shikakai for Aging
Shikakai pods can be used to clean the skin after being soaked in water. This may help to make your skin look healthier if you apply it on a regular basis. It may also have some beneficial effects on symptoms of ageing. However, skin is a sensitive organ and you must consult your dermatologist before applying anything on your skin even if its a natural product. Though studies show the benefits of beetroot against various disease conditions, these studies are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of beetroot on human health.
