Reetha powder, scientifically known as Sapindus Mukorossi, is a natural ingredient that has been used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties.
The plant belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is native to India, Nepal, and other Southeast Asian countries. Reetha fruits contain saponins, which are natural surfactants that create a lather when mixed with water.
The saponins in reetha powder make it a natural cleanser that can effectively remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the scalp and skin.
Reetha powder is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium, which can promote healthy hair and skin.
Additionally, reetha powder has been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful in the treatment of dandruff and other scalp infections.
The natural properties of reetha powder make it a popular ingredient in natural and organic beauty products.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of using reetha powder and how to use it in your beauty routine.
Benefits of Reetha Powder for Hair
- Promotes Hair Growth: Reetha powder is rich in vitamin C, which helps stimulate hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles. It also helps to strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage, resulting in longer, healthier hair.
- Cleanses Scalp and Hair: Reetha powder is a natural cleanser that gently removes dirt, oil, and product buildup from the scalp and hair without stripping away natural oils. It also helps to unclog hair follicles, which can promote healthy hair growth.
- Controls Dandruff: Reetha powder has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help control dandruff and scalp infections. It also helps to soothe an itchy scalp, reducing the urge to scratch and further damage the scalp.
Benefits of Reetha Powder for Skin
- Natural Cleanser: Reetha powder can be used as a natural cleanser for the skin. It helps to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin without drying it out. It’s also gentle enough for sensitive skin types.
- Fights Acne: Reetha powder has antibacterial properties that help fight acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to unclog pores and regulate sebum production, which can reduce the appearance of acne and prevent future breakouts.
- Provides Gentle Exfoliation: Reetha powder can be used as a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin. It’s a great alternative to harsh chemical exfoliants that can irritate the skin.
How to Use Reetha Powder
Reetha Powder For Hair:
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons of reetha powder with water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to your scalp and hair and massage gently.
- Leave the paste on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Follow up with a conditioner or hair oil to prevent dryness.
Reetha Powder For Skin:
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons of reetha powder with water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to your face and neck and massage gently.
- Leave the paste on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Follow up with a moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Nutrition Value of Reetha Powder:
Reetha primarily contains saponins, sugars, and mucilage. The seed kernels of Reetha are an excellent source of proteins, with a balanced amino acid composition according to the World Health Organization.
Reetha also contains sugars and fibers, along with phytochemicals such as polyphenols and saponins.
The seed oil is rich in vitamin E and beta-sitosterol. The nutritional values of Reetha are provided in the table below.
| Nutrient | Amount(per 100 gm) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 174 |
| Protein | 2.6 g |
| Fat | 0.6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 43.7 g |
| Fiber | 35.3 g |
| Calcium | 71 mg |
| Iron | 2.8 mg |
| Vitamin C | 31.4 mg |
| Sodium | 25 mg |
Please note that these values may vary slightly depending on the source and quality of the reetha powder.
Conclusion on Reetha Powder
Reetha powder is a natural ingredient that provides many benefits for both hair and skin. It’s a gentle cleanser, promotes hair growth, controls dandruff, fights acne, and provides gentle exfoliation.
However, like any natural product, it’s essential to do a patch test before using Reetha powder to avoid any allergic reactions or irritation. Incorporating Reetha powder into your beauty routine can be a great way to achieve healthier, more radiant hair and skin.
