The Natural Cure for the Dandruff in your Hair

The high rate of sebum production and high density of hair follicles increase the susceptibility of the skin of the scalp to superficial mycotic conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, parasitic infections and different inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis. The problem of dandruff is not only unappealing in appearance but it also has many accompanying physical problems such as scaling, inflammation, hair loss and itchiness.

What causes dandruff?

There are several factors causing dandruff both internal and external. The different internal causes of dandruff are hormonal imbalance, hypersensitivity to allergies, lack of rest and fatigue, improper nutrition and intake of unhealthy fried foods, aerated drinks, fats, sugars, salts, chocolates, sea food, peanuts and certain dairy products and stress, anxiety and tension. External factors which may lead to the development of dandruff are frequent use of hair sprays and gels, use of mousse, hairspray, heated hair straighteners, infrequent shampooing of the hair or inadequate rinsing of the scalp, cold weather, dry indoor heating, tight fitting hats and scarves, extreme weathers, oily skin and use of lotions containing alcohol.

The cure for dandruff

The treatment for dandruff comprises of the use antifungal and anti-inflammatory herbs and natural remedies. Antifungal herbal medicines are used so that they are devoid of any side effects. Similarly, herbal anti-inflammatory agents are used to provide relief from excessive inflammation and are also devoid of any side detrimental side effects such as damage to spine caused by cortisone.
The natural treatment for dandruff is antifungal and antibacterial in nature and offers pain relief and relief from itchiness and inflammation along with moisturizing and softening the hair.

The herbs with antidandruff properties

Various plants and herbs have been used for the treatment of dandruff. They are a rich source of medicine since they have many bioactive molecules which act as chemical defense against infections. These plants also offer a wide range of antiviral, antifungal and antimicrobial properties which are highly efficacious in curing dandruff. Some of the herbs which have been used in the treatment of dandruff are Aloe Vera, Azadirachta indica (Neem), Embelica officinalis (Indian Gooseberry/Amla) , Hibiscus rosa sinensis, Murraya Koenigii (Curry leaf), Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy basil/tulasi) and trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek seeds/Methi).
The lemon juice which contains about 5% to 6% of citric acid has a wide antimicrobial spectrum against different fungi and bacteria causing dandruff. The juice is used as an effective cure of dandruff. Ayurveda has also mentioned that rice-water is also endowed with properties of inhibiting the growth of fungi causing dandruff. Combination of coconut oil (100 gm) and camphor (4 gm) is also said to be used as an effective cure for dandruff in some parts of the world. Some other herbal and natural products used in the treatment of dandruff are Tea tree oil, Olive oil, omega-3 fatty acids, B Vitamins, Folate and minerals like Zinc and selenium.

Some tried and tested herbal remedies using herbs

There is anecdotal and clinical evidence for some of these remedies. These are completely safe and have been claimed to be very effective when used regularly. A few of these remedies are;

1. The peel of the plant of Aloe Vera is removed and a paste formed out of the remaining part and then applied on the scalp and left for 1 hour before bath. Repeat the remedy once a week for two consecutive months. This is an effective remedy against dandruff.

2. The fruits and bark of Emblica officinalis are dried and powdered and mixed with water and made into a paste. This paste is applied to the skin of the scalp before taking a bath. Leave it on for half an hour and then wash it off. It is an effective remedy useful in preventing hair fall and keeping the hair free from dandruff.

3. The leaves of the Hibiscus Rosa sinensis plant are collected and a paste is made out of them, this paste when applied on scalp is an effective remedy for a luxuriant growth of hair and eliminates the dandruff.

4. The leaves of the Murraya Koenigii are converted into a paste and applied to the head before bath. It is good for nourishing the hair, prevents the hair fall and also eliminates the dandruff.

5. Leaf juice of the Ocimum tenuiflorum is used as an ointment on the head to cure dandruff.

6. The seeds of Fenugreek are converted into a paste and applied to the hair for some time and then washed off to serve as enriching nourishment for the hair and remove the dandruff from the hair.

Eat healthy for dandruff free hair

Dandruff is a problem affecting the skin of the scalp and hence diet and nutritional supplement can not only maintain its good health but also keep your scalp and hair dandruff free. Some of the natural ingredients which must make an integral part of your regular diet are;

1. Essential fatty acids which can be obtained through the consumption of nuts, seeds, fish, olive oil and avocados.

2. Beta-carotene ad Vitamin A which is essentially present in liver, cod liver oil, broccoli, spinach, carrots and sweet potatoes

3. Zinc obtained from red meat, oysters, seafood, sun flower seeds, pumpkin seeds and whole grains
4. Selenium obtained from Brazil nuts, sea food and wheat germ.

Garlic and onion are also beneficial in preventing dandruff. One should stay away from the fungal promoting foods such as sugar, wine, beer, yeast spreads, grapes and melons. If you can follow these simple and natural remedies they will prove to be an effective cure and prevention of the dandruff.

Category: HERBAL REMEDIES