Herbal Remedies for Dandruff

There are many natural herbs that can control and eliminate mild dandruff. These herbal remedies for dandruff are usually considered safe and have often been found quite effective.

Dandruff is generally considered to be a form of dermatitis, and while its causes are probably mostly due to bacterial infection it has also been suggested that hereditary traits play an important role.

When using herbal remedies for dandruff or any sort of herbal medicine, it is vital to be aware of how they will react with other medications, natural supplements, and medicinal herbs. In the case of dandruff, the danger of interactions and side effects is usually minimized, but it is still important to be alert for any itching or burning, or of any rashes that may appear immediately or shortly after using a particular herb or combination of herbs. No matter how safe a herb is thought to be, there is always a chance of an allergic reaction.

Medicinal Herbs Used For Dandruff

Alfalfa (Medicago satina)

Alfalfa is thought to stimulate hair growth. It can be applied crushed, or oils may be extracted and mixed with other ingredients such as carrots or lettuce to form a poultice with which to treat dandruff. This may sound odd, but many common vegetables are high in nutrients which can be beneficial for the scalp and hair.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Another herbal remedy that has a reputation as a treatment for dandruff. The seeds of this plant are softened and then used as a poultice to reduce dandruff.

Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Tea tree oil, is an antiseptic considered by many herbalists to be one of the best herbal remedies for dandruff. It contains special disinfectant substances that can penetrate the top layers of skin on the scalp and are thought to reduce irritation and promote a healthier scalp.

Indian Hemp (Cannabis sativa)

Indian hemp can be crushed, and the juices applied to the scalp. According to Native American folklore, it is thought to promote hair growth and cure dandruff.

Ash Gourd (Benincasa hipsida)

Regular application of juices from the seeds and peel of this plant is said to relieve itching and keep the scalp moist so that flaking and drying cannot occur.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary is a very popular herb when it comes to fighting dandruff. It is used in many commercially available tonics, shampoos, and lotions for scalp care, and is even included in many hair growth products.

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

A chemical found in comfrey, allantoin, has recognized dandruff fighting properties. Shampoos made with it are available in many health and alternative living stores, or one can simply add a couple of drops of comfrey tincture to any herbal shampoo.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, and that can help reduce the scalp’s secretion of oils. One theory is that reducing the oils in the scalp can reduce the effects of dandruff, or even cure it completely.

Lemon (Citrus limon)

Citrus fruits, especially lemon, may be effective against dandruff and other skin problems. It is high in vitamin C, and help to restore the pH balance of the skin. Drops of lemon can be added to an herbal shampoo which also leaves the hair silky and shiny.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalyptus oil is probably one of the best known herbal remedies for dandruff and the most common. Few drops of the oil can be mixed with coconut oil, and then massaged into the scalp to remove flakes and treat dandruff. It has been recommended that the oil should be used at least for 1 to 2 weeks in order to prevent further outbreaks.

Other Medicinal Herbs that Have Been Used as Herbal Remedies for Dandruff

• Aloe vera – (Aloe barbadensis)
• Arnica – (Arnica montana)
• Brahmi – (Bacopa monnieri)
• Marigold – (Calendula officinalis)
• Sage – (Salvia officinalis)
• Horsetail – (Equisetum arvensis)
• Parsley – (Petrodelinum crispum)
• Catnip – (Nepeta cataria)
• Stinging nettle – (Urtica dioica)
• Bergamot – (Citrus bergamia)
• Bay laurel – (Laurus nobilis)
• Cornflower – (Centaurea cyanus)

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Thordur Sturluson

Thordur Sturluson has B.S in Biology majoring in Botany, masters in Zoology. He is a trained scuba diver and researcher with an interest in nature conservation and animal/plant protection.

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