DIY Herbal Detangling Rinse

Apple Cider Vinegar has a plethora of uses, but did you know it could be used as a hair rinse/detangler? Yep! It will boost your hair's body and shine. By increasing acidity and lowering pH, it may support smoothness, strength, and shine. Apple Cider Vinegar is antibacterial and antifungal. The odor should dissipate once your hair dries.

Mixed with distilled water. Pour solution through hair after shampooing, (I like to put it in a spray bottle for more efficient application). Rinse with clear warm water. 

You could make a rinse/detangler with just ACV and distilled water, or you can infuse herbs into the Apple cider vinegar to give your hair more benefits!

When shopping, look for raw, unfiltered, organic apple cider vinegar is best. As apples are ranked among the “dirty dozen” which are crops with the most pesticide residue. 

Here’s the Herbal Vinegar Detangling Rinse recipe I used from The Herbal Academy’s Botanical Skin Care book:

These herbs are very moisturizing and add a conditioning boost.

4 cups (32 oz.) Apple Cider Vinegar
1/2 cup marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis)
1/2 cup calendula flower (Calendula officinalis)
1/2 cup nettle lead (Urtica dioica)
1/2 cup violet aerial parts (Viola spp.)

Place the herbs in a glass jar and cover with the apple cider vinegar. Place a piece of plastic wrap or wax paper between the jar and the lid. Set aside in a cool, dark cupboard for 2-4 weeks, shaking every few days. Strain the herbs from the vinegar using a cheesecloth or wire mesh strainer, squeeze out all the liquid. Store herb-infused vinegar in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. Don’t forget to label.

To use, combine 1/4 cup infused vinegar with 3/4 cups warer in a squirt bottle. Squirt onto scalp and work into hair throughly with fingers. (Since water will dilute the acidity of the vinegar and invite bacterial growth, making a big batch of vinegar and mixing only what you need each time removes and shelf-life concerns.)

Rinse with warm water.
Once the vinegar is mixed with water, the shelf life is just a few days, refrigerated.

Have you ever made your own hair detangler, conditioner, or rinse?