I love stuff like this.
I've just been learning about toothsticks on another thread
I've been no-poo for 3 years now.
I've tried some of the things mentioned on this thread-
baking soda, lemon- too drying and itchy
homemade soap- too alkaline and hair stayed greasy,
vinegar- I stank! Even when dry,
plain water- greasy again.
I've also tried various herb teas which left a residue.
The only thing that works really well for me is rye flour. It has enough mucilage to prevent drying out and it cleans very well. It has Pantothenic acid in it, which Pantene synthesise for their 'hair care' products. Aaaand it leaves my hair smelling like freshly baked bread.
My hair was fine and flyaway before, but now it's thicker and heavier and I haven't lost any shine.
I'd recommend it to anyone who has tried other stuff without success, or is thinking of going no-poo for the first time.
It all depends on your hair type, but in the end your scalp is an intelligent system which will adjust.
And sorry if this info has been posted already but I just skimmed the thread. It's long.
Good luck with no-poo!