Plants that naturally color your hair are a safe and beautiful alternative to harsh chemical dyes. By using them, you can enjoy soft, nourished strands while adding subtle or vibrant shades to your look.
Many of these options are herbs, flowers, or vegetables you might already grow in your garden, making them both affordable and easy to access.
Each plant brings its own charm; some give a fiery red tint, others create darker tones, and a few brighten hair with golden highlights. Besides their coloring power, many of these natural dyes also strengthen your scalp and improve hair health.
If you’ve been searching for a gentle way to refresh your hair, these seven plants are worth trying.
#1 Hibiscus
Hibiscus flowers are famous for giving hair a gorgeous crimson tint while keeping strands smooth and soft. The petals contain natural pigments that leave a subtle glow without causing dryness.
To use, steep 6–8 flowers in boiling water, strain, and let the liquid cool before applying. Rinse your hair with this infusion and leave it for about 30–40 minutes.
After washing again, you’ll notice a lovely sheen and natural lift in color. It’s a perfect option if you love a red undertone with added shine.
#2 Beet
Beets can transform hair with a rich red hue that has cool undertones. Aside from adding color, they’re loaded with nutrients that promote healthy strands.
You can grind fresh beetroots, strain the juice, and mix it with coconut or olive oil for easy application. Massage the blend into your hair, let it sit for an hour, and rinse thoroughly.
The color may deepen with repeated use, giving a more pronounced effect. This is a safe choice for those who want vibrancy without harsh chemicals.
#3 Rose Madder
Rose Madder is a traditional herb that offers a natural way to tint hair with soft, reddish tones. Its roots are packed with plant compounds that create dye when boiled.
Chop the roots into small pieces, simmer in water, and let the mixture cool before applying. Spread the liquid evenly across your hair and leave it for 30–40 minutes.
Wash afterward to reveal a gentle, earthy shade. It’s a simple method that connects you with centuries of herbal beauty practices.
#4 Henna
Henna has been trusted for centuries as one of the most effective natural hair dyes. It creates warm, copper-red tones that can darken with repeated applications.
To prepare, grind fresh leaves into a paste with water and let it sit overnight. Apply the paste to your hair for 2–3 hours, then rinse thoroughly.
The result is not just color but also stronger, glossier hair. Henna’s popularity comes from its ability to condition while coloring, giving you two benefits in one.
#5 Carrot
Carrots add a soft red-orange tint to hair, often creating warm highlights that look especially striking on lighter shades. They’re easy to prepare by grinding and juicing the roots, then mixing the juice with a carrier oil.
Massage the blend into your hair and leave it on for an hour before rinsing. The effect can last for several days to a couple of weeks, depending on your base color. Carrots are a fun way to experiment with gentle, temporary change.
#6 Sage
Sage is an excellent herb if you want to naturally darken your hair. Its leaves release rich pigments that deepen existing shades, blending gray strands seamlessly.
Boil a cup of dried sage leaves in water for about 30 minutes, then cool and strain the liquid. Pour the infusion over your hair and let it sit for 30–40 minutes before rinsing.
With regular use, sage can gradually enrich your color, leaving hair darker and shinier. It’s a soothing herbal option with long-lasting benefits.
#7 Chamomile
Chamomile is well-known for its ability to lighten hair and give it golden highlights. It’s especially effective on blond or light brown shades, enhancing brightness naturally.
To prepare, steep 1–2 cups of chamomile flowers in boiling water for an hour and let it cool. Apply the liquid to your hair, leave it for 30–40 minutes, and rinse out.
The result is a sun-kissed glow that feels fresh and youthful. Chamomile is also calming to the scalp, making it a gentle favorite.