Sun and the weather can really make our hair look thin, limp, and lifeless.

If your tresses could use a little bodifying boost, this simple formula is for you: It will add strength, luster, and incredible fullness to your hair.

Only one herbal ingredient does the trick, and a few drops of optional essential oil adds fragrance, shine, and silkiness.

Nettles are a wonderful herbal ally, not only for fuller, more beautiful hair, but as a calcium-rich tonic that benefits the entire system. (See the Drinkable Nettle Infusion recipe below).

Dried nettles and nettle tincture are easy to buy. Just order online at Blessed Herbs or Mountain Rose Herbs.

Blessed Herbs is on the East Coast and Mountain Rose Herbs on the West.

Here are two variations on the Big Body formula. The second one couldn’t be easier!

Big Body Hair Rinse
2-4 tablespoons dried nettles
1 cup purified or distilled water
3-5 drops lavender essential oil (optional)

1. Combine herbs and water in a stainless steel or glass pan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, covered, for half an hour. Remove from heat and let cool, then strain out the liquid and discard the spent herbs.

2. After shampooing, gently towel-blot your hair, then wrap a towel around your neck. Leaning over a sink or basin, apply the rinse with a spout bottle. For extra potency, pour over a basin so the rinse won’t drain away, then pour the collected liquid through the hair to use every drop. Do not rinse out. Blot hair dry with a towel.

Even Easier Big Body Formula
30 drops nettle tincture
1 cup water

This formula does not require boiling or fussing. Simply mix the ingredients and apply to hair as above.

Drinkable Nettle Infusion
Place a generous handful of dried nettles in a clean quart jar and fill jar with boiling water. Allow to steep for at least 4 hours (8 is better). Strain, sweeten with honey if desired, and drink this strong infusion throughout the day. (Susun Weed recommends making this infusion before bed so it’s ready to go in the morning.)

Adapted from Naturally Healthy Hair, by Mary Beth Janssen (Storey Books, 1999).