How to Make a Rinse for Gray Hair from Fresh Herbs

My previous article on making a hair rinse using herbs was aimed more at brunettes and blondes. I cannot believe how many inquiries I received about what to use if you have gray hair. It took some research, because most of what I was finding dealt with getting rid of the gray. I think, however, the gray should be embraced. Finally, I found the answer to caring for gray hair naturally with herbs. The herb of choice -- elderflower.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Gather some elderflowers. The elder, which is native to North America, is actually a small shrub or deciduous tree. It grows quickly and really presents no particular problems for the gardener, who wishes to grow it. The flowers usually appear in the summer, which is when you should collect them.

2. 
    

   Make your rinse. You will want to place a good handful of dried elderflowers in a cup to which you will boiling water. Allow to steep (covered) for 30 minutes. Strain before using.

3. 
    

   Rinse. Simply use as a rinse after shampooing. Elder is very mild and even healing and will lighten and condition both gray hair and blonde.

Tips & Warnings

• Elder can also be quite effective for dry or sensitive skin and may even help reduce freckles.
• Don't have an elder growing in your yard? Visit any herbalist or natural food store to find out if they carry any of the flowers. Most herbalists, however, should have some on-hand, since it has a variety of cosmetic uses.
• While herbs are all-natural, some people might experience an allergic reaction. Try a test on a small patch of skin before using any herbal remedy.

[woot]

on 5/4/2009 Thanks for the information on using elder to make a rinse for gray hair. I like the idea of using a natural rinse.

[tugboatgrandma]

on 4/11/2009 oh my goodness! i agree with joanhaines! ELDER and gray hair! that's so interesting! can't wait to try this ELDER recipe on my gray hair! thank you!

[FrazzledNanny]

on 1/30/2009 Great tips. Thanks for the article. 5*

[brantsbabe]

on 1/29/2009 Great. Conditioning and natural. I'll have to remember this one when I get gray hair. 5*

[ginafur]

on 1/26/2009 Thanks for the tips. I am graying fast and this little recipe will come in handy, 5*