Ayurvedic Scalp Cleansing Rituals: Ancient wisdom for a healthy scalp & strong hair

Jan 30, 2026

Authored by: Adeeba

Reviewed by: Kapil Dhameja

Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

There was a time when scalp cleansing routines were performed as ceremonial events, and today in the era of modernity haircare routines have been reduced to a quick five-minute wash in the shower, which is quite understandable since the fast paced life has overtaken all of us.

But according to the Ayurvedic way of life, when one cleanses their scalp, one is not only cleaning their hair, they are also restoring balance, reducing tension on the nervous system, and ensuring that there is an equilibrium between the body and nature.

Today, our bathrooms probably do not resemble anything like the ancient open-air temple settings or the riverbanks where these rituals once occurred, however, our scalps are still responsive to stress, product buildup, natural oils, dryness, and lack of attention in exactly the same fashion as they did in ancient times. Through Ayurveda, we can see that while our tools may change over time, the principles of haircare remain the same.

Table of Contents

How the Ayurveda Understands the Scalp
Why Scalp cleansing is essential in Ayurveda
Methods of Cleaning Your Scalp with Ayurveda
Herbs From Ayurveda for Cleansing the Scalp
Rituals for Scalp Cleansing Dosha-Wise
Dual-Dosha or Mixed Scalp Types (Dry ends, oily scalp)
How frequently should you clean the scalp in Ayurveda?
Common Scalp Cleansing Mistakes
FAQs : Ayurvedic Scalp Cleanse

How the Ayurveda Understands the Scalp

In the Ayurvedic Tradition, the scalp does not exist independently from the body but rather is an extension of the skin, nervous system, and Agni (digestive fire) working together in unison. The health of the scalp reflects the overall health of an individual, what a person eats, their emotions, sleep cycle, and also in regards to seasonal changes.

Renowned Ayurvedic physician Dr. Vasant Lad, (founder of The Ayurvedic Institute, USA), explains in his teachings that hair is a byproduct (mala) of Asthi Dhatu, the bone tissue.

The ancient texts refer to the scalp as a living surface full of nerve endings and energy channels. Therefore, traditional Ayurvedic practices like Shiro Abhyanga (head massage) have always been seen to provide cleansing and healing. A healthy scalp provides nourishment for hair growth, calmness of the mind, and regulation of heat in the body.

Whereas a modern understanding of scalp health is often limited to the state of the hair, Ayurveda looks at the health of the scalp as being the “soil” in which healthy hair grows. If the soil is nourished and not disturbed; hair will grow thicker, longer, and stronger. If the soil is disturbed, no amount of external treatments can restore hair health.

Why Scalp cleansing is essential in Ayurveda

1. Impurities accumulate on the scalp naturally

The scalp naturally collects sweat (sweda), excess oil (kapha), dust from the environment, and dead skin cells, very similar to the skin on your face and body. If the scalp is not cleaned properly, these impurities will block the hair follicles (romakupa), interrupting the hair growth cycle. Over time, the buildup will weaken the roots of your hair and create an environment for dandruff, itching, and discomfort on the scalp.

2. Blocked hair follicles create imbalance in doshas

When the scalp is not regularly cleansed, Kapha accumulates on the scalp. Accumulation of this moisture creates a sense of heaviness and greasiness on the scalp, which causes the blockage of hair follicles. Blocked hair follicles result in an inability to circulate and provide nourishment to your hair through Vata, causing dry, weak roots with oily scalps.

3. Aggressive scalp cleansing aggravates Vata and Pitta

Ayurveda do not recommend over-cleansing or using aggressive cleansers and routines. Cleansing the scalp aggressively strips the scalp of the natural oils which aggravate Vata, which can result in dryness, flaking, and sensitivity of the scalp. Cleansing the scalp properly will remove impurities without removing the natural oils on the scalp.

4. Cleansing Helps Circulation and Nourishes Hair Follicles

When you cleanse your scalp, blood flows more freely to the hair follicles due to an increase in the flow of Rakta Dhatu. In Ayurveda, if your circulation is healthy, you will receive nutrients from the blood at the roots of your hair, which helps strengthen your hair, promoting healthy growth and preventing too much hair loss. A traditional cleansing ritual is usually performed with an additional application of oils or herbs to provide immediate nourishment after purification.

5. Cleansing the Scalp is Preventative, Not for Aesthetic Purposes

According to Ayurvedic Physicians, cleansing the scalp is not a cosmetic process, it is done to prevent deeper imbalances from occurring. A regular and gentle scalp cleansing routine will maintain a balanced scalp environment and eliminate the possibility of developing chronic issues such as thinning hair, dandruff, excessive amounts of loose hair/falling hair, scalp infections later on in life.

6. The Scalp Connects to the Nervous System

Ayurveda also recognises the head as the Central Organ of Thought (cognition). Cleansing the scalp is an important part of calming Vata in the nervous system, thus calming stress, mental fatigue, and restlessness. Traditional cleansing rituals are therefore done very slowly with lukewarm water and calming herbs. Instead of being a hurried ritual, they became a form of self-healing.

Methods of Cleaning Your Scalp with Ayurveda

Shiro Abhyanga

Before you start the process of cleaning your scalp with Ayurvedic methods, you must utilize the shiro abhyanga method first. Shiro abhyanga is a form of an oil-based massage performed pre-shampooing. This massage will help prepare the scalp and provide nourishment. Every scalp has accumulated impurities, dirt trapped in follicles, and a vata imbalance in the head area. Using oils like coconut oil, sesame oil, or herbal-infused tailas will ensure that the scalp is already receiving nourishment prior to the cleansing.

How to Apply Shiro Abhyanga:

- Warmed coconut oil, sesame oil, or bhringraj oil.

- Gently massage with circular motion for 10-15 minutes.

- Let oil sit on scalp for minimum of 30 minutes before showering with gentle herbal shampoo.

- This does remove toxins, calm the nervous system, and tone the scalp.

Herbal Cleansers

An alternative to using foaming cleansers are plant-based herbal cleansers. These cleansers would have been used as powders or paste formulations (for example, reetha, soap nut, amla, shikakai, and hibiscus). Unlike surfactant-based products, these ingredients work to cleanse gently and remove sweat, dirt, and excess kapha but, as with all types of soap, they do not strip the scalp of its natural oils and thus will preserve the remaining protective barrier against heat and wind.

Lukewarm Water

A significant component in the cleansing of the scalp and hair is the water temperature. Lukewarm water is used to wash and rinse away oils/impurities, while at the same time allowing the scalp's natural oil balance to remain intact and without shock. Hot water on the other hand increases the pitta dosha, while cold water can make the scalp feel stiff. Consequently, both hot and cold water can impede the flow of blood to the hair roots, resulting in hair breakage.

Slow, mindful movements

Cleansing is usually not rushed. It is done slowly using only the fingertips (instead of fingernails) to create gentle circular motions. These motions stimulate the marma point on the scalp which improves blood circulation and assists in lymphatic drainage as well as increases relaxation. In Ayurveda, slow touch is equally important, as is the use of herbs in the process.

Nourishment after cleansing

After the scalp is washed, it is usually coated lightly in oil (depending on the type of oil used) or treated with herbal decoctions. This coating or treatment served several purposes. It rehydrates the scalp, helps shield the scalp from drying out and locks in the cleansing benefits of your treatment. Ayurveda believes that cleansing and nourishing are two steps of the same healing process, and thus, both must be present during a treatment to create a meaningful result.

Herbs From Ayurveda for Cleansing the Scalp

1. Reetha (Soapnut)

According to Ayurvedic Medicine, reetha is a popular natural cleanser used for cleansing the scalp. Reetha contains natural saponins (to produce very mild suds) which are enough to remove sweat, oil and dirt from the scalp. As a practitioner of Ayurveda, I often recommend reetha to those with build-up or dull hair who want to use a gentler approach than other traditional means. Reetha cleans the scalp without disturbing your natural oils while keeping it Soft and Shiny.

2. Shikakai

In addition to providing cleansing, shikakai is also known as a conditioner. In Ayurveda, shikakai is considered a onditioner and cleansing agent. Shikakai helps cleanse, while strengthening hair follicles (roots) and reducing hair breakage. Unlike conventional shampoos, shikakai does not strip away the moisture from your scalp, it helps provide safeguarding for this to remain intact. Particularly beneficial for someone with thin, brittle or failing hair. Shikakai provides the long-term benefits of caring for your hairsteading, versus mourning over the surficial results of cleaning your hair.

3. Amla

In addition to removing toxic impurities from uour scalp, amla also balances pitta. Pitta is Phytonutrient for deranging the body (causes Scalp irritability, excess heat and/or premature greying). Amla helps to keep a cool, moisturised sensation in the scalp, thus supporting follicle's health and supports the growth of healthy hair.

4. Neem

This is an effective scalp cleanser and protectant for those whose scalps are prone to irritation from dandruff or microbial stressors. When used according to Ayurvedic methods, Neem acts as a way to protect and cleanse the scalp predominantly Kapha and Pitta imbalances. The benefit to using this herbal ingredient mildly regularly is it purifies the scalp without drying out the scalp too much. This is beneficial for those who may be looking for a gentle deep cleansing of their scalp from time to time but not completely stripping the scalp dry of everything.

5. Hibiscus flower and leaf

This have been traditionally used to keep both the scalp clean while maintaining softness and flexibility in the hair. Hibiscus products are an excellent option for those who have normally felt that after cleansing their hair it feels rough or tangled. Hibiscus flowers support gentle detoxification and keep both the hair and the scalp in a calm state and keep the hair conditioned naturally.

6. Fenugreek (Methi)

In Ayurveda, this has been shown to be good for cleansing the scalp while providing the necessary nourishment to regenerate a healthy scalp environment. Fenugreek helps remove buildup, soothe dryness, and create healthy hair follicles. Fenugreek is particularly good for those suffering from a sensitive scalp and may have hair loss as it cleanses without compromising the roots.

Rituals for Scalp Cleansing Dosha-Wise

Ayurvedic medicine considers a person's dosha before determining their scalp cleansing method. A person will have to adjust their cleansing method for their dosha since the different doshas respond to scalp cleansing differently.

Vata Dosha (Dry Scalp, Flaking, Itching, Delicate Hair)

The dry and sensitive Vata-dominant scalp is prone to irritation, therefore, cleansing should consist of gentle handling, warmth and nourishment rather than frequent styling and cleaning.

Before cleansing your scalp, apply warm oil (sesame oil, almond oil, for example) to your scalp and massage into the scalp for five to seven minutes. This will hydrate the scalp and increase blood flow to the scalp.
The cleansing should occur with mild herbal powders, such as Shikakai or diluted herbal decoctions, rather than harsh cleansers and with warm rather than hot water. Do not scrub during the cleaning process.
Cleansing should occur once or two times per week, and after cleansing, the scalp should be treated with either a light oil or the application of a scalp-misting product to protect the scalp from becoming dry and losing moisture.

Bhringraj and Amla Hair Repair and Treatment Oil

Pitta Dosha Scalp (Thinning hair, Grey hair Appearing Early)

Pitta Dosha scalp is irritated and sensitive to heat. A cleansing ritual that includes cooling, calming, & non-abrasive.

Start by oiling the scalp using a cooling oil like coconut oil or bhringraj oil. Massage gently and do not rub too roughly, as this creates heat.
When cleansing your hair, use soothing herbs, such as amla, neem, or aloe vera-based products. Water temperature should be cool to lukewarm, never hot.
Ideally, you should cleanse your hair once or twice per week. Additionally, after washing the hair, try to limit sun exposure so that the scalp doesn't become too hot again as a result of this exposure.

Kapha Dosha Scalp (heavy build-up, oily scalp, dandruff, heavy feel)

Kapha builds-up quickly and can be very oily. Kapha needs stimulation and clarity in their scalp ritual. To best treat Kapha, we will work to remove excess oil from Kapha hair without creating dryness and allow for no stagnation.

The first step in this process will be to do a dry massage or light oiling with mustard or neem oil-infused massage oil to stimulate circulation.
Once the massage is complete, we will then do a scalp cleanse using herbal products like reetha, neem, and triphala. These herbs will effectively cleanse build-up from the scalp, and the best temperature for using herbal products is lukewarm (the most effective temperature to dissolve excess oil).
Kapha hair can be cleansed 2-3 times a week; do not do heavy oiling unless the scalp is feeling dry or irritated.

Briganantadi Tea Tree Anti Dandruff Oil for Hair- Clean & Healthy Scalp

Dual-Dosha or Mixed Scalp Types (Dry ends, oily scalp)

Many people today have mixed or a combination of dosha, because of lifestyle and environmental factors. When this is the case, we will have to listen to our scalp and change our scalp routine based on how our scalp is reacting and to which seasons we are in.

You should use light oiling only for the dry areas and gentle cleansing using balanced herbal products.
The cleansing and oiling should be done according to the climate, dietary intake, and level of stress.

Ayurveda teaches us to listen to our scalp rather than stick to a fixed ritual.

How frequently should you clean the scalp in Ayurveda?

There are no set rules in Ayurveda for cleaning the scalp, rather, how often you should cleanse your scalp varies depending on your dominant dosha, your lifestyle, the season and the condition of your scalp, rather than following the common way we wash our hair every day.

Frequency of cleansing based on Dosha

Vata's dryness and sensitivity can be aggravated by frequent cleansing. As Vata-dominant persons are naturally dry, Ayurveda suggests that you cleanse your scalp no more than once or twice a week and use a relatively gentle cleansing herbal formula that won’t strip the natural oils. Pitta-dominant scalps may also become irritated and inflamed due to frequent or excessive cleansing

Kapha-dominant scalps

These scalps tend to accumulate excess oil and/or product buildup more easily than other doshas, therefore cleansing is often performed more frequently. As per Ayurvedic principles, cleansing with natural (non-harsh) herbal formulations is tolerated as necessary, but should occur at least three times per week.

Cleansing practices based on seasonal changes

Based on Ayurveda, we should adapt our scalp cleansing routines to reflect seasonal changes. For example, summer is associated with a rise in Pitta (the fire element) so it's best to use gentle and cooling cleansers during this time; whereas winter is associated with an increase in Vata (the wind element), therefore more nourishing products would be recommended; and lastly, using Kapha (water element) as it is aggravated in the rainy season, it's important to cleanse your scalp more frequently to avoid heavy feeling or fungal growth on your scalp.

The Importance of Listening to Your Scalp

Instead of following a set schedule for cleansing your scalp, Ayurveda supports being aware of what your scalp is telling you, whether that be through itchiness, too much oil, lack of shine, or discomfort. A balanced scalp should feel light, peaceful and comfortable after cleansing rather than tight and irritated.

Common Scalp Cleansing Mistakes

Over Cleansing

Cleansing the scalp more than necessary potentially due to excessive need for cleanliness is one of the greatest mistakes. According to Ayurveda, the scalp requires some of its own natural oils for protection and nourishment. Excessive cleansing strips away this protective layer of natural oils resulting in aggravation of Vata dosha, leading to dry, itchy scalp, hair loss due to weak roots.

Using hot water when cleansing

While hot water may feel soothing while cleansing the scalp, it also increases Pitta dosha's levels in the scalp which results in scalp inflammation, overproduction of oil, dandruff, scalp sensitivity, and premature graying of hair. Ayurveda recommends using lukewarm or cool water when cleaning the scalp as this keeps the doshas balanced.

Misuse of Natural Ingredients

Using natural ingredients incorrectly on the scalp too frequently can affect the overall health of the scalp. The scalp could be affected irritably if strong herbs, spices, or acidic substances are applied without understanding the balance of Vata dosha in your body.

Not oiling before cleansing

Another typical error is not applying oil to the hair/scalp before shampooing. Ayurvedic oiling loosens dirt from the scalp and nourishes and supports the root of the hair while also protecting the scalp from becoming too dry. If you neglect this step, your hair will become brittle and your roots weak, particularly if you are Vata dominant.

Assuming "Herbal" Means Natural

While some products are labelled as "herbal," many contain synthetic surfactants/detergents and synthetic fragrances. These components disrupt the natural microbiome and dosha balance of the scalp. The Ayurvedic approach is to use natural cleaning substances and/or traditionally processed products.

FAQs : Ayurvedic Scalp Cleanse

Is scalp cleanse the same as shampoo in Ayurveda?

Scalp cleansing in Ayurveda is not only removal of oil/dirt. It also helps balance the doshas in the scalp,strengthens circulation to the scalp and protects the root of your hair. Modern shampoos usually focus on foams and smells but the Ayurvedic method is to provide nourishment and gentleness.

Can I do Ayurvedic scalp cleanse if I'm using modern hair products?

Yes, but with caution. Ayurveda does not completely reject the use of modern products as long as there is balance created by using both types of products. When using modern cleansers, it is important that they are gentle and that you follow up with Ayurvedic practices such as oiling regularly and using herbal masks or Detoxing the scalp every season.

According to Ayurveda, is dandruff a sign of poor hygiene on your scalp?

Not always. The Ayurvedic perspective on dandruff is based on the doshas and how they affect the scalp more than just hygiene. Many times Dandruff is due to not having enough moisture (Vata or dry) or too much moisture (Kapha or sticky). Therefore, sometimes the problem is worsened when using excessive cleansing products.

How soon can I expect results from Ayurvedic scalp cleansing?

Ayurveda takes time to work. However, many people experience increases in scalp comfort, decreases in scalp itchiness, and improvement in the overall condition of their hair after consistent, appropriate daily Ayurvedic scalp cleansing for the duration of three to six weeks, depending on their individual dosha and overall lifestyle.

Can Ayurveda help with hair fall?

Yes, if you are using Ayurvedic cleansing methods correctly. Ayurvedic methods of cleansing and conditioning help to create healthy hair follicles by stimulating blood flow, eliminating excess toxins build up (ama) in your body, and calming your nervous system. However, if the cause of your hair falling out is due to hormonal or nutritional issues, you will need to take care of these problems internally with the use of dietary changes and herbs as well.

Conclusion

Having found the proper balance of using the appropriate herbs and dosha specific techniques on your scalp using moderate cleansing methods, the end result will create the optimum environment for a strong and healthy head of hair. In addition, practicing a mindful manner, scalp treatment will become not only a routine activity, but a ritual healing experience.

Recommended Products

Ayurvedic Shampoos for Gentle Cleansing

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