Dandruff is a scalp condition caused by abnormal shedding and overproduction of sebum, and is often associated with excessive scaling of skin cells. People with oily hair tend to get dandruff more than people with dry hair. The problem can start at any age, but is most commonly seen between 18-25 years old. It may occur suddenly without causing pain, itching or scratching, or may gradually worsen and become worse.
Home remedies for dandruff have been known since ancient times and many people still use them today. In this article I am going to share some of the natural home remedies for dandruff. You can find these same remedies in any good book on herbal medicine, such as Holistic Herbal Medicine by Dr. Weil.
In this article we have listed out home remedies for dandruff that can help you get rid of this problem without any side effects.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, malic acid, glycerin, benzoic acid, citric acid and pectin. These components are able to dissolve dead cells and make way for fresh cells to take their place. You can use apple cider vinegar directly on your scalp or mix it with water and apply it to your scalp before going to bed. Leave it on overnight and wash off in the morning. Repeat this at least twice a week for best results.
Castor oil
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid. When applied to the scalp it helps in keeping away bacteria and fungi. Since castor oil is emollient, it makes the scalp soft and smooth. To prepare it simply put 1 teaspoon of castor oil in a glass jar and add few drops of olive oil. Mix them well and store it in a dark place for 2 weeks or until it turns solid. After two weeks strain it using cheesecloth or muslin cloth and keep it in container till use.
Easy Home Remedies for Bad Breath
Aloe Vera gel
Aloe vera gel is rich in polysaccharides that help stimulate blood circulation and moisturize dry scalps. Make sure to choose aloe vera gel that has no additives. Cut open the stem and scoop out the clear gel. Keep it in refrigerator and use only when it starts to thicken. Apply it directly to your scalp and leave it overnight. Wash it off in the morning. Follow this remedy twice a week for best result.
Aloe vera gel is known to have cooling effect on the skin. In order to get best result, use aloe vera gel before applying shampoo or conditioner. Follow this step for 4 – 5 days. You need to apply pure aloe vera gel from the leaf of aloe vera. Do not use any kind of store bought aloe vera gel, it may contain chemical ingredients. Also avoid putting aloe vera gel directly on the scalp. Wash hair after applying aloe vera gel to make sure no residue remains. Make sure you wash hair thoroughly.
Cucumber juice
Cucumbers have cooling properties and are great for soothing irritated scalp. Simply cut the cucumber and squeeze its juice. Use this diluted juice on your scalp before going to sleep. Rinse it off in the morning and repeat this at night. Do this for 2 weeks for best results.
Onion juice
Onions have anti-bacterial properties. Chop 4-5 onions finely and keep it aside. Add some milk to them and boil it slowly. Let it cool and filter the liquid. Store this filtered solution in refrigerator for future use. Gently massage the onion juice onto your scalp once in a day.
Egg yolk
Egg yolk is good for treating oily scalp. Take 2 eggs and add them to warm milk. Beat them properly and let it rest for 30 minutes. Strain this mixture and use it as a mask. Wash it off after 15 minutes. Repeat this procedure three times a week.The first remedy is a mixture of honey, lemon juice and water. Mix equal parts of these three ingredients together and apply to your scalp twice daily. Lemon juice kills bacteria and helps remove oil buildup. Honey hydrates and moisturizes the scalp, while making the mix easier to spread evenly.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins that nourish the body and prevent premature aging. Its fatty acid content consists of lauric, capric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and arachidonic acids. Lauric, capric, and myristic acids are responsible for providing moisture retention and restoring the natural oils in the scalp. Palmitic and stearic acids help improve elasticity and prevent frizziness of the hair. Oleic acid prevents excessive drying of the scalp and promotes the growth of hair.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil comes from the Australian native tea tree and has been known to fight bacteria and viruses. It has been shown to treat fungal and bacterial infections due to its antibacterial and antifungal property. It is effective when applied topically or ingested orally. Tea tree oil helps balance sebum production and regulates the pH levels in the scalp. This reduces excess oil buildup and prevents the overgrowth of yeast fungi, thus preventing dandruff. Tea tree oil should always be diluted before use though. You can dilute 1 drop of tea tree oil with 10ml of water for external application or 2 drops per 10ml of water for internal consumption.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a herb that grows wild throughout Europe and North America. It is often called winter saviour because it provides protection from the cold weather. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is said to increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. Applying rosemary oil to the scalp helps stimulate circulation and reduce inflammation.
Almond oil
Almonds are packed with Omega-3 fats that help maintain strong and smooth hair. They also work to protect from damage caused by UV rays and environmental pollutants. Use almond oil directly after massaging the scalp or leave it overnight to penetrate deep inside the scalp.
