5 plants for a natural hair coloring

Why Choose Natural Hair Color?

Conventional hair dyes rely on an oxidation process involving ammonia and hydrogen peroxide.
While effective, this process:

• Forces the hair cuticle to open

• Allows synthetic pigments to penetrate deeply

• Weakens the hair fiber over time

• Frequently leads to dryness, breakage, and scalp irritation

Natural colorants, on the other hand, work on the surface of the hair. Instead of altering its internal structure, they coat the fiber with plant-based pigments, creating a protective, tinted layer that gradually fades with each wash.

Below are five reliable and accessible natural recipes, each offering unique benefits depending on your goal.

1. Black Tea — Gradual Darkening for Brown Hair

Black tea is known for its strong tannins, which naturally deepen and enrich darker hair tones.

How to prepare:

1. Boil 1 liter of water.

2. Add 200 g (7 oz) of black tea.

3. Simmer for 30 minutes, then leave to infuse overnight.

4. Strain the mixture.

5. Use as a final rinse after each shampoo.

With consistent use, black tea gently enhances brown hues while adding shine and softness.

2. Walnut Husk — Intense Natural Brown Pigment

Walnut husk contains juglone, a natural dye traditionally used for rich brown coloring. It is an excellent option for darkening hair in a single treatment.

You will need:

• 50 g walnut husk powder

• 50 g neutral henna

• 350 ml warm water

Application:

1. Mix all ingredients into a smooth paste.

2. Apply evenly throughout the hair.

3. Leave on for 1–3 hours, depending on intensity desired.

4. Rinse thoroughly.

This mixture delivers a long-lasting, earthy brown tone with minimal hair damage.

3. Coffee — Warm Tones for Light Hair

Coffee can subtly darken light hair and enhance warm brown undertones.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of strong brewed coffee (preferably espresso)

• 1 equal part honey

• 1 equal part white vinegar

How to use:

1. Combine all ingredients.

2. Apply to damp hair after shampooing.

3. Leave on for 15–20 minutes.

4. Rinse thoroughly.

This treatment adds depth and warmth to blond or light brown hair.

4. Cocoa Powder — Soft Tinting and Grey Coverage

Cocoa powder offers a mild tint while helping soften the appearance of white or grey hairs.

Preparation:

• 1 cup cocoa powder

• 1 cup honey

Mix until smooth, apply to the hair, and leave on for 1 hour before rinsing.
The result is a gentle, natural brown shade with improved softness and a pleasant scent.

5. Sage — A Traditional Remedy for Grey Hair

Sage leaves have long been used to darken hair naturally and blend grey strands.

Instructions:

1. Boil 1 liter of water.

2. Add 200 g of sage leaves.

3. Simmer for 30 minutes.

4. Let cool completely.

Apply the preparation before shampooing. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then wash your hair as usual.

Repeated use helps strengthen the hair while gradually restoring deeper color.