and the Journey continues

100+ degrees and I'll have to say my hair seems to be enjoying being protected from all this heat and humidity! I have tried assorted styles with braids and twists still not comfortable with my little puny bun. I have purchased hair for my senagalese twists and will be getting them done in a few weeks, contemplating a sew in this week to hold me out til then. I have been following my regular regimine and am tweeking it a little bit. A wonderful long time friend of mine and natural hair guru known to you all as Kinkerbelle doesn't shampoo her hair at all. She co-washes only and doesn't occasional bentonite clay masks, so I will give that a whirl for the duration of my protective style challenge. Co-wash only. I recently picked up the Trader Joes Tea Tree Tingle Conditioner for this. Her hair is presently about midback length, healthy and gorgeous!

I have found that these essential oils stimulate growth so I will be coming up with some combination of these diluted with Jojoba oil, EVOO and coconut oil to do my scalp massages every other day alternating with my back 2 da basics shea whip.

BASIL, (Ocimum basilicum). Basil oil is a powerful scalp stimulator. When applied to the scalp you can actually feel it working. It produces a warm, slightly tingling sensation. When I use basil I do not have to use a conditioner.

CARROT SEED, (Daucus carota). Carrot seed oil is superior for hair and skin that is in need of nourishment, moisture and elasticity. It is indicated for alopecia areata, fragile hair, brittle hair and falling hair. It is calming to the skin and scalp. Carrot seed oil is rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, essential fatty acids and other nutrients. It is expensive and harder to find than most essential oils.

CYPRESS, (Cupressus sempervirens). Imagine your self in a quiet forest surrounded by tall Cypress tress. The aroma of cypress oil can transport you to that soothing place. Cypress is used to reduce oiliness in the scalp and is good for dandruff. I use cypress if I am making a nighttime scalp formula that I will leave in while I sleep. It clears the mind and prepares it for sleep. It is important to use only the smallest amount (1 drop) in your formula or it could have the opposite effect.

LAVENDER, (lavendula vera) Lavender oil is a standard in hair and skin care. It has cell-regenerating properties. It is used to promote hair growth and to prevent future loss. It is effective for all hair types. Because it has the ability to regulate sebum production, it is useful for either oily or dry scalp. Lavender is often paired with rosemary in scalp and hair formulas. Together they produce an outstanding synergy for hair care.

Lemon, (Citrus limon) the essential oil comes from the rind, which is high in Vitamins A, B and C. Lemon oil is very versatile. It can be used for dry or oily hair because it helps to regulate sebum production. It is anti-aging and promotes cell-regeneration. It helps to restore the hairs natural ph level. Lemon oil can produce a healthy shine, especially to blonde hair.

PEPPERMINT, (Mentha piperita) If I could only have one essential oil for my hair it would be peppermint. It is refreshing and invigorating, excellent to use in the morning to get the day started! Peppermint produces a cool, tingling feeling as it energizes the scalp. It is used to promote hair growth, for dandruff and itchy scalp.

ROSEMARY, (Rosmarinus officinalis) Rosemary oil is very well known for its superior hair care qualities. For hair care, it is probably used more often than any other essential oil, especially to promote hair growth. It is a powerful scalp stimulator for hair loss and to strengthen thinning hair. It is also used to shine and condition hair and to bring out highlights in dark hair.

TEA TREE, (Melaleuca alternifolia) Tea tree oil has become very popular. It is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. It is effective against any type of fungal condition of scalp such as ringworm. It is used to heal infections and to reduce itchiness. It removes build-up on the scalp and helps rejuvenate dull lifeless hair. It leaves hair soft, clean and manageable. Tea tree has a strong, clan medicinal scent.