Shenaz Treasury squeezed ‘shampoo’ from a flower: ‘You don’t lose hair with it’

Shenaz Treasury sparked curiosity among haircare enthusiasts when she posted an Instagram reel showcasing a purported "nature's shampoo" from the Shampoo Ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) plant. The clear, slippery liquid extracted from the cone-like flower is claimed to cleanse hair, soften it, eliminate dandruff and prevent hair fall—all without the use of chemicals.

Traditional use of the plant for hair care in parts of Asia is noted by Treasury in the reel. However, the effectiveness of this plant-based rinse in comparison to regular shampoo is debatable. Dermatologists confirm that while the plant can cleanse hair to some extent, it lacks the strength of regular shampoos to remove oil and dirt effectively.

Despite its natural appeal, dermatologists caution against using raw plant exudate as it can cause itching, redness, or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is recommended to conduct a patch test before applying the extract to the scalp. Moreover, the raw plant extract may contain bacteria or mould due to the absence of standardisation and preservation.

While the plant does possess anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, clinical research is lacking to fully substantiate its effectiveness in treating dandruff. Dermatologists also warn that replacing regular shampoo with this natural rinse could lead to an accumulation of oil on the scalp over time, potentially causing more flakes, itching, and scalp odour.

As for hair fall prevention, experts refute the claim made in the reel that using Shampoo Ginger would prevent hair loss. The hair shed during washing is usually telogen hair, which naturally detaches from the root during the hair growth cycle. Using milder plant-based rinses may lead to a build-up of oil that could result in more flakes, itching, and scalp odour.

In conclusion, Shampoo Ginger can be enjoyed as a traditional hair-care remedy, but it should not be viewed as a miracle solution for dandruff or hair loss. People interested in trying this natural rinse should use the fresh extract, avoid applying it on broken skin or recently treated scalps, and not replace prescribed scalp medication with it. Always consult a health practitioner before starting any new routine.