Dandruff
Dandruff is one of the most common hair problems, yet it gets the least attention maybe because it’s not life-threatening. It is a condition wherein dead skin cells get accumulated in the scalp and is characterized by flaking of the scalp, itchiness and sometimes hair fall.
Dandruff might be the result of a number of factors including unhygienic scalp, dry skin, excessive exposure to hair styling products, stress, pollution and much more.
Ayurveda, the 50 century old art of healing is a popular medical treatment adopted by many for treatment of dandruff.
Here are some of the most effective formulae from the books of Ayurveda tried, tested and proven over the ages.
Diet and nutrition
Diet affects our body in ways we can’t even imagine. Every cell of the body is made up of things we eat. Our hair demands a good amount of Vitamin B6 that can be found in cabbage and eggs
. While excessive consumption of dairy products, fatty foods, sugar and seafood increase the trouble of dandruff.
Blood circulation of the scalp and dandruff
Blood circulation of the scalp is very effective in controlling dandruff.
Massaging coconut oil or tea tree oil improves blood circulation. Frequently brushing the hair in outward strokes also help to prevent dandruff.
Tulsi
Tulsi is a wonder herb with many benefits. Tulsi paste applied on scalp helps to remove dirt flakes and dandruff. It hydrates the scalp and prevents dryness of hair.
Coconut and Camphor
Mix camphor and coconut oil and store it in an airtight glass jar. Heat the oil and massage into the scalp for 10 minutes each night to control dandruff.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek is very effective in preventing dandruff. Soak 2 tbsp. fenugreek seeds overnight in water and grind them into fine paste. Apply the paste on the head and scalp, leave it for 30 minutes and wash with a mild shampoo.
Thyme
Thyme, a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic dandruff remedies, is valued for its astringent and healing properties.
Boil dried thyme leaves for 10 minutes. Strain, cool, and massage the mixture into the scalp. Rinse after 30 minutes.
Lemon and Vinegar
Massage the scalp with 1 tsp of lemon juice added in 2 tsp of vinegar. Lemon is rich in cleaning and antibacterial qualities that help treat dandruff.
Turmeric
Turmeric has antibacterial, anti-allergenic, antioxidant and astringent properties. Sauté 1/4 tsp.
turmeric with 1/4 tsp. cumin, or jeera, and 1/4 tsp. marich or black pepper, in 1 tsp. ghee and eat it for nourishment of hair and scalp.
Rasayanas
Keshya rasayanas are the ayurvedic herbs that promote the health of scalp and hair. Amla and triphala are very good for nourishing hair.
Yoga for dandruff control
Ayurveda suggests regular practice of yoga to keep the hair healthy. Yoga postures such as – Shirshasana enhances blood circulation to head and brain, sarvangasna improve blood circulation to head, paschimottasana control hair fall,
chakrasana helps to solve the problems of scalp meditation controls stress and anxiety.
