Treatments Of Dandruff According To Ayurveda

There is nothing like healthy hair to make an individual feel confident and beautiful. Unhealthy hair is always a cause of concern for both males and females. Dandruff is a common chronic scalp disorder that is characterized by flaking of the skin of the scalp. As skin cells die, they are shed from the scalp surface. For some people, excessive flaking occurs resulting in dandruff.

What are the clinical features of Dandruff?

• Kandu (itching)
• Daruna (dryness followed with crack in the skin)
• Toda (pricking sensation)
• Twak sputana (cracking of the skin)
• Swaapa (numbness)
• Keshachyuti (hair fall)
• Daha (burning sensation)
• Gaura (heaviness)

Concept of Dandruff in Ayurveda:

Dandruff is known as Darunaka in Ayurveda. It is one of the most common disorders of the scalp. Although, dandruff rarely causes baldness or hair loss but the itchiness associated with this condition is certainly a cause of concern. According to Ayurveda, dry dandruff is a Vata Pradhan (Vata dominant) Kapha dosha. On the other hand, wet dandruff is Kapha Pradhan (Kapha dominant) Vata dosha. The increase of doshas such as Vata and Pitta lead to impairment of Raktadhatu (blood tissue), thus giving rise to impurities in the blood. This leads to poor nourishment of the scalp. As per Ayurveda, most of the skin disorders are related to blood impurities. So, the medicines are prescribed for blood and liver detox.

In Ayurveda, it is mentioned that dandruff may be caused due to:

• Prolonged intake of cold water
• Excessive consumption of salty food
• Excessive exposure to UV rays
• Consumption of alcohol
• Suppression of natural urges
• Improper maintenance of hair
• Excessive sweating
• Using very less or no hair oil for massaging head and scalp
• Not washing hair regularly

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Dandruff?

The Ayurvedic line of treatment for dandruff includes the pacification of Vata and Kapha doshas through herbs, herbal medications and changes in diet and lifestyle. Ayurvedic classics have dealt with various procedures and medications to manage the dandruff.

Some of the Home Remedies for Dandruff are:

1. Shiroabhyanga (Oil Massage): Oil massage with oil is said to be effective due to the properties of oil such as snigdha guna (oily), Vatahara (pacifies Vata dosha) and Kapha hara (pacifies Kapha dosha).

• It performs actions such as Snehana (unctuous) and Kledana (moistness) and at the cellular level.

6. Amalaki Paste (Emblica officinalis): Mix equal quantities of Hibiscus flowers, fresh amla (Indian gooseberry) and tulsi leaves with 4 times of sesame oil and 8 times of coconut water. Cook this mixture until the complete evaporation of water content and filtered. This mixture is stored in a glass bottle. Use this oil for application on the scalp.
7. Coconut Oil: Regular application of coconut oil for 20 minutes before taking bath, with gentle massage is quite beneficial.5-10 neem leaves can also be added to the coconut oil. Take 5-10 neem leaves or curry leaves, heat it in a mild fire for 5 minutes and filter it. Use this as hair oil for good results in dandruff.
8. Borax: Take 10 gm dehydrated borax and mix it well with 60 ml curd. Apply this mixture on the scalp. Lemon juice can also be added to borax instead of curd. Regular application of this for 7-10 days gives relief in dandruff.
9. Fenugreek: Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek in water. Grind it on the next day. Apply this paste on the scalp and leave it for 15-30 minutes and wash your hair. This paste acts as a natural hair conditioner and hair becomes shiny as well.
10. Almonds and Raisins: Soak 5 almonds and 5 raisins in water at night and eat them next day in the morning.

Measures to be followed for Scalp Care are:

• Always use clean cold water to wash the head.
• Avoid using hot water for hair wash.
• After washing hair, comb hair only after hair gets dried.
• Don’t apply heat and direct sunlight on the scalp.

Some Ayurvedic herbs useful in the treatment of Dandruff are:

1. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Yashtimadhu along with coconut oil has the properties such as Madhur Rasa (sweet taste), Guru (heavy), Snigdha (oily), Sheet Veerya (cold potency), Madhura Vipaka (sweet taste conversion after digestion), Keshya (good for health of hair), Kandughana (relieves itching), Daha Prashamana (relieves burning sensation), Vrana Prashmana (ulcer healing), Raktpitta Shamaka (provides relief in vitiation of blood). These properties pacify the aggravated Doshas and help in nourishment of hair and scalp.
2. Manjisthadi Kwath: The major ingredient of Manjisthtadi Kwath is Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia). Manjisthadi Kwath has Madhur (sweet), Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) Rasa (taste), Guru (heavy) and Ruksha (dry) Guna (qualities), Ushna Virya (hot potency) and Katu Vipaka (undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion).

• It is also attributed with Vranya Rakta Shodhaka (wound healing by purification of blood) and Vishaghana (potential to pacify the toxic effects) properties which makes it clinically useful in Darunaka by improving the blood circulation of scalp and thus promotes cleaning of debris.

3. Arogyavardhini Vati: Arogyavardhini Vati is widely used in Ayurvedic practice due to its blood detoxifying properties.

• It is widely used in the management of Kushtha (skin disorders).

4. Triphala Powder: Triphala Powder is widely used in Ayurveda for the treatment of wide variety of disorders.

• It stimulates digestive capacity and acts as Rasayana (rejuvenator).
• It helps in regulation and proper functioning of Srotas (micro-channels).
• Due to properties such as Katu Rasa (pungent taste), Ruksha (dry) and Teekshan Guna (scraping quality), Katu Vipaka (undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion), Vranashamaka (heals wounds), Vishahara (expels toxins), Kandughana (relieves itching), Krimighana (expels worms), Kledanshamaka (alleviates moistness), Vatashamaka (pacifies Vata dosha) of triphala, it helps in cleaning debris and preventing the scalp from secondary invasion of microbial growth.

Wholesome Diet and Habits:

• Intake of fruits such as pomegranate, mango, lemon and coconut are recommended.
• Include cow ghee in the diet.
• Shiro abhyanga (application of the oil to the scalp) is advised.
• Foods that are rich in Vitamin E such as sunflower seeds, almond, pine nuts, peanuts, spinach, chia seeds should be included in the diet.
• Excess intake of cold water, wrong food combination, suppression of natural urges, exposure to strong sunlight should be avoided.

Dandruff is not a life-threatening illness but negligence will result in infectious skin diseases. Therefore, regular application of the oil to the scalp and wholesome diet will help in treating dandruff. Ayurvedic management of dandruff has a strong possibility to breakdown the pathogenesis.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by flakes of dead skin, itching, and sometimes irritation. It can be caused by an imbalance of the doshas, particularly Vata (dryness), Pitta (heat), and Kapha (moisture and mucus), or due to external factors like poor diet, stress, fungal infections, and excessive scalp dryness. Ayurveda treats dandruff by addressing these underlying imbalances, improving scalp health, and promoting hair nourishment.

Here’s a breakdown of Ayurvedic treatments for dandruff:

1. Understanding the Causes of Dandruff in Ayurveda

• Vata Imbalance: When Vata (air and ether elements) is aggravated, it causes dryness and flakiness of the scalp. Symptoms include excessive dryness, itching, and shedding of small white flakes.

• Pitta Imbalance: If Pitta (fire and water elements) is imbalanced, it leads to scalp inflammation, excess oil production, and redness. This may lead to conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, which causes oily dandruff.

• Kapha Imbalance: Kapha (earth and water elements) imbalance can lead to excessive oiliness and sticky flakes, often accompanied by itching or scalp congestion.

• Fungal Infections: The fungus Malassezia is a common cause of dandruff and scalp irritation in modern contexts, which Ayurveda treats with antifungal and anti-inflammatory herbs.

2. Ayurvedic Herbs for Dandruff Treatment

Ayurveda offers a wide variety of herbs that address the root causes of dandruff, balance the scalp’s health, and promote hair growth. Below are some commonly used herbs for treating dandruff:

• Neem: Known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, Neem is often used to treat dandruff caused by fungal infections or scalp irritation. It also soothes itching and reduces flakiness.

  • How to Use: Boil neem leaves in water, let the water cool, and use it as a final rinse after shampooing. You can also make a paste of neem powder and apply it to your scalp for 20-30 minutes before washing.

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help nourish the scalp and improve hair health. It also balances the Pitta dosha and helps in controlling excessive oil production in the scalp.

  • How to Use: Amla powder can be mixed with water to make a paste and applied directly to the scalp. Alternatively, amla oil can be massaged into the scalp to rejuvenate hair follicles.

• Brahmi: Brahmi is known to calm the mind and is often used to treat scalp dryness, itchiness, and irritation caused by dandruff.

  • How to Use: Brahmi oil can be applied to the scalp and left for 30 minutes before washing. Regular use can help nourish the scalp, reduce dryness, and promote hair growth.

• Fenugreek (Methi): Fenugreek has strong anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It helps in treating dandruff and also strengthens the hair.

  • How to Use: Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them into a paste. Apply this paste to the scalp and leave it for 30 minutes before washing. This helps to remove dandruff and improves scalp circulation.

• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties that help in controlling dandruff caused by fungal infections.

  • How to Use: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with coconut oil and massage gently into the scalp. Leave it for 15-20 minutes before washing off.

• Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, which make it effective against dandruff and scalp infections.

  • How to Use: Boil tulsi leaves in water and use the infusion as a rinsing solution for your hair. You can also grind fresh tulsi leaves into a paste and apply it directly to the scalp.

• Shikakai: Known for its cleansing and scalp-nourishing properties, shikakai is often used as a natural shampoo and helps to balance scalp conditions like dandruff.

  • How to Use: Mix shikakai powder with water and make a paste, which you can apply to the scalp. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing it off.

• Hibiscus: Hibiscus is a moisturizing and cooling herb that helps in combating dandruff and hair loss caused by dryness.

  • How to Use: Use hibiscus petals or hibiscus powder mixed with coconut oil as a hair mask to treat dandruff and improve hair strength.

3. Ayurvedic Oils for Dandruff Treatment

Ayurvedic oils are an important part of dandruff treatment. The oils nourish the scalp, balance doshas, and promote hair health. Here are some effective oils for treating dandruff:

• Coconut Oil: A natural moisturizer with antifungal properties, coconut oil can help alleviate the dry, flaky scalp associated with dandruff.

  • How to Use: Warm some coconut oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for an hour or overnight for best results.

• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is considered a great oil for nourishing the scalp, cooling the scalp, and reducing itching caused by dandruff.

  • How to Use: Massage warm sesame oil into the scalp for 15-20 minutes before washing your hair.

• Brahmi Oil: As mentioned earlier, Brahmi oil nourishes the scalp and promotes hair growth. It also helps calm the scalp, preventing dandruff caused by dryness.

  • How to Use: Massage Brahmi oil onto the scalp regularly to maintain healthy, dandruff-free hair.

4. Ayurvedic Shampoos and Rinses

Several Ayurvedic herbs can be used as shampoos or hair rinses to treat dandruff:

• Amla and Shikakai Shampoo: A combination of amla and shikakai helps cleanse the scalp, restore balance, and treat dandruff. These herbs have natural cleansing properties that gently remove dandruff flakes without damaging the scalp.

• Neem Water Rinse: Boil neem leaves in water and use this as a final rinse after shampooing. It works well to prevent dandruff and scalp infections.

5. Dietary Recommendations

Ayurveda stresses the importance of a balanced diet to maintain healthy skin and scalp. Here are some dietary guidelines to control dandruff:

• Avoid Excessive Spicy, Oily Foods: Spicy, oily, and fried foods can aggravate Pitta dosha, which can trigger dandruff.

• Incorporate Cooling Foods: To balance Pitta, include cooling foods such as cucumbers, coconut, and leafy greens in your diet. These foods help reduce inflammation and moisture imbalance in the scalp.

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and scalp hydrated.

• Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Include flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts in your diet to nourish the scalp and prevent dryness.

6. Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Dandruff

• Stress Management: Stress is a major trigger for dandruff. Incorporate yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises into your daily routine to reduce stress.

• Regular Hair Massage: Massaging the scalp regularly with Ayurvedic oils improves circulation, reduces dryness, and prevents dandruff.

• Adequate Sleep: Sleep is vital for overall health, and lack of sleep can contribute to stress and aggravate dandruff. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using shampoos and hair products containing harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, or synthetic fragrances, as these can irritate the scalp and worsen dandruff.

7. Precautions

• Do Not Scratch: Scratching your scalp can worsen the condition and lead to infections. Keep nails trimmed and avoid rubbing the scalp too hard.

• Maintain Clean Scalp: Regularly clean your scalp to remove dead skin cells and excess oil, but avoid overwashing, as it can lead to further dryness.

• Protect Hair from Sun Exposure: If you have dandruff, protect your scalp from excessive sun exposure, as it can aggravate dryness and irritation.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to treating dandruff, addressing both the external and internal causes of the condition. By using herbal remedies, oils, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications, you can effectively balance your scalp’s health, reduce dandruff, and prevent future flare-ups. However, consistency is key, and it’s important to follow a natural regimen over time to see lasting results.

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by flaky skin on the scalp, often accompanied by itching and dryness. In Ayurveda, dandruff is typically seen as a result of imbalance in the doshas, primarily Vata and Pitta, which leads to dry, flaky skin or oily buildup on the scalp. It can also be linked to improper digestion, the accumulation of toxins (ama) in the body, and issues related to skin health.

Causes of Dandruff According to Ayurveda:

1. Vata Imbalance:

   • Vata dosha governs dryness and roughness in the body. When Vata becomes aggravated (due to factors like cold weather, stress, or poor diet), it can lead to dry, flaky scalp conditions like dandruff. This is especially true in cold, dry climates or during the winter months when the scalp becomes excessively dry.

2. Pitta Imbalance:

   • Pitta dosha is responsible for heat, inflammation, and metabolism. An imbalance in Pitta can cause excessive oil production, leading to an oily scalp, which contributes to the formation of dandruff. Pitta imbalance can also lead to scalp irritation, itching, and redness.

3. Kapha Imbalance:

   • Though less common, Kapha dosha (which governs stability and moisture) can also play a role in dandruff, particularly when there is an accumulation of sebum (natural oil) on the scalp, leading to sticky flakes.

4. Poor Digestion (Ama):

   • According to Ayurveda, poor digestion leads to the formation of ama (toxins), which can accumulate in the body and cause skin problems, including dandruff. Ama manifests in the scalp as an imbalance in oil secretion and cell renewal.

5. Stress and Mental Factors:

   • Excessive stress or emotional instability can disturb the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, contributing to the development of dandruff. Mental tension may also exacerbate scalp conditions like itching and dryness.

6. Environmental Factors:

   • Exposure to pollution, harsh weather conditions, and the use of chemical-based hair products can also disrupt the balance of the scalp’s natural oils, leading to dandruff.

7. Improper Hair Care:

   • Infrequent washing, the use of harsh shampoos, or the failure to clean the scalp properly can create an environment for the overgrowth of Malassezia (a fungus) that is associated with dandruff.

8. Underlying Health Conditions:

   • Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis can also contribute to dandruff, leading to inflammation and skin flakiness.

Symptoms of Dandruff According to Ayurveda:

• White or yellowish flakes on the scalp, hair, and shoulders.

• Itchy scalp: Often accompanied by discomfort and irritation.

• Dry scalp: Flakiness due to dryness of the scalp skin (if Vata imbalance is predominant).

• Oily scalp: Greasy flakes and an oily scalp (if Pitta imbalance is predominant).

• Scalp inflammation or redness: Often seen in cases where Pitta is aggravated.

• Dry, brittle hair: Due to dryness and lack of moisture in the scalp.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Dandruff:

Ayurvedic treatments for dandruff aim to balance the doshas, reduce inflammation, promote healthy hair growth, and nourish the scalp. Ayurvedic remedies include herbal treatments, oil massages, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.

1. Herbal Remedies:

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

  • Properties: Cooling, soothing, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Brahmi helps balance Pitta and Vata doshas. It promotes hair growth, reduces scalp irritation, and strengthens the hair follicles.

• Neem (Azadirachta indica):

  • Properties: Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Neem has anti-fungal properties that help treat dandruff caused by the overgrowth of Malassezia fungus. It also helps reduce scalp inflammation, itching, and redness.

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry):

  • Properties: Cooling, anti-inflammatory, rich in Vitamin C.

  • Benefits: Amla is known for its ability to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and reduce scalp irritation. It balances Pitta and promotes healthy hair growth.

• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum):

  • Properties: Moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and nourishing.

  • Benefits: Fenugreek seeds are often used in hair masks to treat dandruff. They hydrate the scalp, balance Vata and Pitta, and reduce flakiness and itchiness.

• Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia):

  • Properties: Anti-fungal, antiseptic.

  • Benefits: Tea tree oil is highly effective in treating dandruff caused by fungal infections. It helps reduce inflammation, itchiness, and the buildup of sebum on the scalp.

• Shikakai (Acacia concinna):

  • Properties: Cleansing, mild, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Shikakai is a mild cleanser that gently removes excess oil and dandruff flakes from the scalp. It also promotes healthy hair growth and reduces scalp dryness and irritation.

• Curd (Yogurt):

  • Properties: Cooling, moisturizing, and nourishing.

  • Benefits: Curd can be applied to the scalp as a natural conditioner. It helps soothe dryness, provides moisture, and can help treat dandruff caused by Vata imbalance.

2. Ayurvedic Oils and Massages:

• Coconut Oil:

  • Properties: Moisturizing, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Coconut oil is a highly effective treatment for dandruff caused by dryness or fungal infections. It helps moisturize the scalp, prevent flakiness, and reduce irritation. Coconut oil can be used for gentle scalp massage to promote healthy circulation and hydration.

• Bhringraj Oil:

  • Properties: Cooling, anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating.

  • Benefits: Bhringraj oil is known for its ability to balance Vata and Pitta. It helps reduce dandruff caused by dryness, nourishes the scalp, and promotes healthy hair growth.

• Neem Oil:

  • Properties: Anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.

  • Benefits: Neem oil can be used to treat dandruff caused by fungal infections. It helps control the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus, reduces itching, and helps balance the oil levels in the scalp.

• Sesame Oil:

  • Properties: Nourishing, soothing, and anti-inflammatory.

  • Benefits: Sesame oil is commonly used in Ayurveda for scalp massage. It helps reduce dryness and inflammation, and promotes healthy circulation in the scalp.

3. Ayurvedic Hair Masks for Dandruff:

• Fenugreek and Yogurt Mask:

  • Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them into a paste. Mix with yogurt and apply it to the scalp for 30 minutes before washing off. This mask helps hydrate the scalp and reduce flakiness.

• Amla and Neem Powder Mask:

  • Mix amla powder and neem powder with water to make a paste and apply it to the scalp for 20-30 minutes. This mask helps balance Pitta and Vata, while reducing dandruff caused by fungal infections.

• Brahmi and Shikakai Paste:

  • Make a paste by mixing Brahmi powder and Shikakai powder with water. Apply it to the scalp to strengthen hair roots, reduce dandruff, and soothe the scalp.

4. Dietary Recommendations:

• Hydration:

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the body and scalp hydrated.

• Eat Cooling Foods:

  • Include fruits, vegetables, and light, cooling foods in your diet to balance Pitta. Foods like cucumbers, mint, coconut, and dairy can help reduce heat in the body and soothe the scalp.

• Avoid Spicy and Oily Foods:

  • Reduce the intake of spicy, salty, and oily foods, as these can increase Pitta and exacerbate scalp inflammation.

• Incorporate Anti-inflammatory Foods:

  • Include foods that are naturally anti-inflammatory, such as turmeric, ginger, flax seeds, and chia seeds.

5. Lifestyle Recommendations:

• Stress Management:

  • Practice meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises to reduce stress, which can aggravate Vata and Pitta imbalances that contribute to dandruff.

• Gentle Scalp Care:

  • Use mild, chemical-free hair products and avoid over-washing or over-conditioning your hair. Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water to prevent the scalp from becoming overly dry or irritated.

• Regular Oil Massage:

  • Massage the scalp regularly with nourishing oils like coconut oil or sesame oil to keep the scalp moisturized, reduce dryness, and promote healthy circulation.

Conclusion:

In Ayurveda, the treatment of dandruff revolves around balancing the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and addressing underlying issues like poor digestion, toxins (ama), and stress. Herbal remedies, Ayurvedic oils, scalp treatments, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications can all help restore balance, soothe the scalp, and promote healthy hair growth. As always, it is advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment recommendations based on your individual dosha imbalance and health condition.