Natural Cures & Treatments for Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp condition. It usually results from excessive drying of the skin and over-activity of the oil glands. Dead skin cells shed and cause white flakes and possibly an itchy scalp. This condition usually runs in families, but can also be caused by fatigue, stress, hormonal imbalances, frequent exposure to dry air, and neurological conditions. Herbal treatments are used topically and should bring about noticeable results in six to eight weeks.

Herbal Treatments

Burdock oil provides the skin with essential fatty acids. After shampooing and drying, apply about 1 teaspoon to the scalp. Copaiba oil is very effective for curbing inflammation and flaking. You can buy copaiba shampoo or add a few drops of oil to a commercial dandruff shampoo. Tea tree oil is a strong anti-fungal agent. Add 2 teaspoons of oil to 1 quart of water and rinse your hair with this solution after shampooing. Do not use tea tree oil if you have an allergy to celery or thyme. Ayurvedic medicine suggests making a paste from fenugreek seeds soaked overnight in water. Apply to the scalp and rinse off after one hour.

Other Natural Supplements

The benefits of burdock oil can also be achieved by eating goboshi, a Japanese cereal made from burdock. Eat 1 ounce daily. Gamma-linolenic acid promotes healthy skin, hair and nails. This essential fatty acid is contained in black currant, borage and evening primrose oil. Take 500 milligrams in capsule form twice a day. Flax seed, sardines and salmon are also rich in essential fatty acids. You can eat these foods or use fish-oil or flaxseed-oil supplements as directed on the label.

Other Suggestions

Use natural shampoos that do not contain artificial chemicals. To make your own herbal anti-dandruff shampoo, use one part propylene glycol, four parts baby shampoo and then add in some copaiba and tea tree oil. Rinsing the hair with vinegar instead of plain water can help prevent flaking. Use cup of vinegar in 1 quart of water. Vinegar can have a strong odor but it dissipates. If odor is a concern, use at night and the odor will surely be gone in the morning.