Madagascar Periwinkle or Sadabahar (scientific name Catharanthus roseus) is a common garden flower that has generated a stir in the field of natural beauty treatments due to its surprising hair-care properties.
The annual blooming pink or lilac flower may be a secret weapon in the battle against poor hair growth and thinning hair.
Antioxidants and alkaloids found in periwinkle help revitalise drained hair follicles, promote blood flow to the scalp, and reduce inflammation, all of which are essential for the growth of healthier, thicker hair. Its calming and antimicrobial properties improve scalp health in particular, reducing dandruff and inflammation that frequently impede hair growth.
Furthermore, Sadabahar is used in Ayurveda to temper the pitta dosha, or heat-and-inflammation factor, which can cause premature greying, hair loss, and thinning when it gets out of control.
These simple home remedies can be used to maximise this garden treasure.
Sadabahar-infused hair oil
Combine a cup of castor or coconut oil with a teaspoon of fenugreek (methi) seeds and a handful of fresh sadabahar leaves and petals. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until the oil turns light green, let it cool and strain it. Apply warm oil to the scalp and hair lengths, leave overnight, then wash off. Use twice a week for noticeable outcomes in three to four weeks.
Deep-nourish mask
Make a smooth paste by blending 5 to 6 sadabahar flowers, 2 hibiscus flowers, 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel, and 1 tablespoon yoghurt. Apply the mixture to hair lengths and roots, let sit for 30 to 40 minutes, and then rinse with lukewarm water and light shampoo. This mask aims to strengthen hair shafts, tame frizz, and promote new growth.
Flower-water hair rinse
Boil one litre of water with sadabahar flowers for 10 to 12 minutes, then let them cool and sieve. Pour this over your hair and scalp after shampooing, and do not rinse with water. It works wonders for detangling, lowering scalp heat, and adding gloss.
Coconut-milk rinse combo
A combination of fresh sadabahar flower paste and warmed coconut milk can be applied onto clean hair, massaged gently, left for 10-15 minutes and rinsed off. Apply the mixture once or twice a week to promote and nurture growth.
Aloe vera mask variation
Combine a handful of fresh sadabahar flowers, 2 tablespoons of honey, which hydrates and calms the scalp, and one tablespoon of aloe vera gel (for hydration and scalp health). This mask can be applied as a weekly mask to address root-weakness and promote growth.
Tips for best results
For optimal effect:
- Always use fresh sadabahar leaves and flowers instead of dried ones.
- Avoid high heat when preparing the oil infusion—very hot oil can hinder the plant’s active properties.
- Mix sadabahar with other traditional hair-care herbs like amla or Bhringraj for better results.
- Be consistent. Although these are not quick remedies, you can notice fuller, healthier hair by using them on a daily basis.
