Shikakai – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!

All of us have at some point heard of shikakai through our grandparents or a hair product commercial. Due to our growing inclination toward natural and organic products, this enigmatic plant handed up from generation to generation has survived the test of time and is currently enjoying a renaissance in popularity. Knowing how to utilize shikakai powder for hair effectively allows you to combine its benefits with those of other herbs, which only increases the potency of the powder when used on its own. Let’s discuss how Shikakai is suitable for your hair.
What is shikakai?
Shikakai is a shrub-like plant native to central India; its name translates as “hair fruit.” For many years, it has been used as a cleanser for the body, hair, and pretty much everywhere else; a cleanser would be helpful too because its bark contains saponins which foam up when disturbed in water like soap; because once you know how to use Shikakai powder for hair, it lathers somewhat, distinguishing it from the other plants.

Shikakai and tamarind resemble each other in appearance. A pod holds the seed of the plant. The fruit or seed is dried, the bark and leaves are added, and everything is ground into a fine powder. This results in the shampoo lathering more. The hair is then covered in a paste made of this shikakai powder for hair.
Benefits of shikakai powder for hair
Soothes your scalp
Shikakai is a remarkable substance that can cure minor cuts and abrasions on the scalp and calm and soothe an aching head. Shikakai’s antifungal properties moisturize your scalp and reduce dryness and irritation. The relaxing and soothing effects of shikakai powder for hair’s powerful therapeutic advantages are felt immediately.
In contrast to chemical shampoos, which could irritate a sensitive or inflamed scalp, shikakai powder for hair has a cooling effect and reduces discomfort. To relieve pain and swelling from wounds, scrapes, and pounding headaches, use a paste of turmeric, neem leaves, and gently air-roasted Shikakai powder for hair.
Shikakai powder for hair | Anti-dandruff
Utilizing shikakai can also lessen dandruff. According to research, shikakai powder for hair has alpha hydroxy radicals and antioxidants such as Vitamin C and A that moisturize and lightly exfoliate the skin. On the scalp, an excessive amount of sebum is produced, which is one of the major causes of dandruff. Shikakai’s astringent qualities, which control the production of scalp oil, may help to reduce dandruff. Shikakai powder for hair calms the irritation from your scalp flaking, as dryness is the main contributor to dandruff. Shikakai has a calming and cooling overall effect in addition to maintaining the pH balance of the hair.

Serves as a natural hair cleaner.
Shikakai is a natural hair cleanser that eliminates all dirt, toxins, and contaminants from the scalp without hurting the hair, in contrast to conventional soaps and detergents that are chemically laden. The natural oil generated by the sebaceous glands is also retained, preventing the scalp from becoming dry and irritable after a wash.
Alleviates a scratchy scalp
Sometimes flaking, too much oil, lice, or even a nutritional deficiency might cause your scalp to itch continually. Shikai also has a solution for this, so don’t be concerned. As a result of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, shikakai powder for hair advantages is a calming and soothing therapy for irritated and itchy scalps.
Effective against head lice
To our massive relief, shikakai for hair has potent antifungal and antibacterial characteristics essential for eliminating dandruff and lice from the scalp or hair, respectively. The advantages of shikakai powder for hair are that it effectively eliminates dandruff without losing the scalp’s natural oils and minimizes dry scalp problems, which in turn cause flaking and dandruff. As a result, say goodbye to the continuous white flakes around your shoulder and scalp and get relief from the constant itching and clumsiness that hair lice cause.
Prevents hair from graying
Your level of stress, as well as the use of chemical-laden shampoo, can hasten the aging process of your hair. Shikakai powder for hair heals the scalp while nourishing and moisturizing hair, contrasting to comparable shampoos. This also delays the aging process despite your busy daily routine. Free radicals in the cells, according to a study, speed up aging and result in premature graying. Shikakai powder for hair effectively prevents such damage from free radicals.
Prevents terrible split ends
Split ends are among the most noticeable hair problems. If you’ve ever experienced them, you know that the sole remedy is to clip the ends of your hair. This is related to hair fall and might be problematic if you attempt to extend your hair. If split ends are to be avoided, your hair’s health must be improved. The advantages of Shikakai, which are rich in antioxidants, serve as the perfect counterbalance to the damage that free radicals may do.
Knowing how to utilize shikakai powder for hair will help your hair retain moisture, grow more robust, and be less prone to split ends by increasing sebum production in the scalp. Even herbal products might have particularly adverse effects and can affect people differently. Before taking it, be sure to consult with a physician to ensure correct usage.
encourages hair growth
Natural hair cleanser
Shikakai, a perfectly natural hair cleanser that is easily located in surrounding supermarkets and food stores, encourages hair growth. It has a lot of antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals that can damage your hair and scalp. Its gentle washing action gently detangles your hair, avoiding hair breakage and resultant hair loss. Micronutrients and vitamins C, A, E, and K, are also plentiful in shikakai’s health advantages, which refill the scalp and encourage hair growth. Hair follicles are strengthened by shikakai. The result is hair that is stronger, healthier, and less prone to falling out.

Shikakai side effects
Depending on the majority of research, shikakai may be safe to consume. However, using
shikakai persistently might have some of the adverse effects listed below.
- If taken excessively, shikakai could worsen asthma and respiratory issues.
- If used often, it may produce oiliness on the scalp.
- Shikaki eating in excess might result in nausea and sometimes even loose stools.
- It might be dangerous to eat these leftover seeds after they have been cooked in lukewarm water.
- Shikakai can lead to dry skin if administered frequently.
- Bloating is another side effect of shikakai that’s been linked to anxiety.
- Shikakai is said to be the cause of acidity.
Neelamari Herbs
The purpose behind the founding of Neelamari Herbs was to provide organic, plant-based solutions for personal care. This firm sources organic hair color solutions that are made entirely from natural ingredients, including henna, indigo, reetha, and shikakai powders, all of which have nourishing, fungal, and preservation effects. Thanks to the brand, your skin and hair will be adorned with the best of what nature offers.