Description
The scientific name of Shikakai is Acacia concinna which is a shrub like tree. It has been used since centuries as cleanser for hair and body. Due to presence of saponins in its bark, it lathers moderately when shaken with water. It is rich in vitamin C and also Vitamins A, D, E and K and other antioxidants which are very essential for healthy and quick growth of hair naturally. These vitamins help in providing necessary micro-nutrients to the hair follicle to nourish hair and grow fast and healthy.
Besides being beneficial for hair in multiple purposes, Shikakai is also used for other reasons. Like: the leaves of shikakai are edible and have acidic taste which are used in making pickles, Pods of Shikakai can be soaked in water and then used to clean the skin and the regular use of this remedy will leave your skin looking healthier and younger, Bark of shikakai contains saponin that has spermicidal activity and hormonal effects, which makes it useful for contraceptive purposes, Decoction of shikakai and reetha in water is useful in washing delicate clothes such as silk, cashmere and pure cotton without causing any damage to them, Shikakai is effective in treating minor scalp wounds like cuts or bruises and so on.