Dandruff is a little bit of a mystery, we know how it develops but nobody really knows why it appears. We are going to look at the different elements involved in its formation and see what natural remedies for dandruff we can use to take care of our scalp and hair.
Dandruff Dandruff is caused by an hyperactive scalp in response to several irritants. Depending on where we look down the line these irritants can be of different origin:
-irritant or harsh shampoos and hair dyes (best to use mild shampoos)
-excessive sebum production
-yeasts
All of these factors together challenge the barrier function of the scalp making it weaker and also drier or less hydrated.. What has nature got to offer to solve this unpleasant issue?
Tea tree (Melaluca alternifolia) extract, this wonderful extract has sebum regulating properties helping to reduce sebum production
Nettle (Ortica dioica) extract, this plant extract has a very long track record as a dandruff remedy. It is astringent and sebum regulating
Hemp (Cannabis sativa) oil, rich in omega 3 and 6 has calming and moisturising effects on the irritated scalp.
Henna (Lawsonia inermis), its extract has specific antibacterial activity which is effective against the yeast to beat, ie Malassezia furfur. Also with calming properties
Essential oils with antibacterial activity: Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) oil, Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) oil, Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) oil, Mint (Mentha piperita) oil
Vegetable tars: pretty smelly stuff, so not for the sensitive nose! they work by absorbing the sebum reducing dandruff production
As you can see there is not a miracle cure, rather a combination of natural plant extracts along with avoiding irritant products for the scalp such as hair dyes and drying shampoos. You can start with a simple 2 steps dandruff care regime by:
-pretreating your hair with hemp seed oil and leave for at least an hour or so
-washing your hair with a mild shampoo with added eucalyptus, mint and rosemary oils
Wishing you a relaxed and healthy scalp and please feel free to share your own anti dandruff remedies
Here is also a popular page on natural remedies for dandruff
