Hair issues that occur frequently among individuals of all ages include dandruff and itchy scalp. Most of the commercial shampoos sold in the market are very promising on fast relief but in most cases the results are short term. The ancient Indian tradition of natural medicine is Ayurveda, which is a long-term and holistic remedy. Ayurvedic remedy of dandruff and itchy scalp is aimed at stabilizing the internal energies of the body and enhancing the natural nourishment of the scalp instead of concealing the symptoms.
You will find out how Ayurveda can be used to treat the dandruff and itchy scalp, the most effective herbal remedies, and how to care of your hair each day to ensure a healthy and strong hair.
Understanding Dandruff and Itchy Scalp in Ayurveda
As per Ayurveda, the dandruff is referred to as Darunak. It is caused by the imbalance of the doshas – in the first place, Vata and Kapha. When compromised, these energies cause their dryness, itch and development of white flakes on the scalp. An unhealthy diet, stress, insomnia and use of chemical based hair products may aggravate this condition.
- vata imbalance leads to the roughness of the scalp, scaly and dry.
- Kapha imbalance causes oiliness, stickiness and funguses of the scalp.
The Ayurvedic treatment tries to harmonize these doshas in order to achieve their balance using herbs, oils, diet and detoxification.
Popular Reason of Dandruff and Itchy Head
It is always good to know what causes before the beginning of any Ayurvedic remedy. As per Ayurvedic measures, dandruff can be developed because of:
- Use of too much chemical shampoos.
- Consuming fatty, spicy and junk food.
- Unclean hair washing
- Hormonal imbalance
- Mental stress or anxiety
- Night owl sleeping or lack of sleep.
- Scalp infection of fungus or bacteria.
Ayurveda is of the view that the underlying factors should first be treated in order to achieve a healthy scalp without flakes.
Ayurvedic Dandruff and Itchy Scalp Best Ayurvedic Treatments
Ayurveda does not depend on one product but on a total routine which incorporates both the herbs, oils and of course lifestyle. The following Ayurvedic remedies are the best that you can use:
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
The neem is the best antifungal and antibacterial herb of nature. It cleanses the scalp, eliminates itching, and eliminates recurrence of dandruff.
How to use:
Add some few neem leaves in water and boil them down, cool down, and apply the mixture as a last rinse after washing hair. Alternatively, combine neem powder and coconut oil and put it on your head as a mask at least once a week.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla contains Vitamin C and antioxidants that help to revitalize the head, enhance the strength of hair follicles and heal dandruff. It also assists in the balance of Pitta dosha that is the cause of heat and inflammation.
How to use:
Combine aala powder with water or yogurt in order to form a paste. Put it all over your head and wash it off in 30 minutes. The amla oil can also be used to massage your head twice a week.
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)
Bhringraj is a very effective herb to use in the overall well-being of the hair. It feeds hair roots, avoids scalp infection, increases blood flow that removes itching and dryness.
How to use:
To use massage, warm Bhringraj oil in your head at night and leave it overnight. Wet it off early in the morning with a weak herbal shampoo.
Fenugreek (Methi)
Fenugreek seeds are good in the treatment of dandruff. They also have lecithin that moisturizes the head and lowers the flakiness.
How to use:
In a case of a soak, use the two tablespoons of methi seeds overnight and grind them into smooth paste and apply on your scalp. Allow to dry after 30 minutes and then wash in lukewarm water.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a calming and cooling herb which has broad applications in Ayurvedic treatment. It is used to relieve irritation and adds moisture to a dry flaking head.
How to use:
Use the freshly cut aloe vera gel on your head. Allow 20-30 minutes of time and wash off using a mild shampoo. The best practice is two times per week.
Coconut Oil and Lemon
Coconut oil feeds and moisturizes the head, and lemon juice serves as a natural cleanser to get rid of the dead skin cells and excess oil.
How to use:
Add 2 Tablespoons of coconut oil and lemon juice in drops. Rub a little until it gets warm and put it into your scalp. Allow resting of 30 minutes, and then wash.
Triphala
Triphala is a combination of three strong fruits, Amla, Haritaki and Bibhitaki, which is reputed to detoxify the head and enhance the texture of the hair. It also cleanses the blood and harmonizes all the three doshas.
How to use:
Blend Triphala powder with water and use as a hair mask one time in a week. Triphalia tea which is taken regularly in a day will also clean the inside.
Dandruff and Scalp Ayurvedic Hair Oils
Ayurveda attaches a lot of value to Abhyanga – the oil massage. Scalp massage helps in blood supply, lowers stress, and boosts the strength of hair roots. The Ayurvedic oils that are the best are:
Bhringraj Oil – stimulates the growth of hair and removes dandruff.
Brahmi Oil– Relaxes the mind and calms the itchy head.
Coconut Oil + Neem – Antibacterial and cooling to the anaesthetic scalp.
Sesame Oil Hibiscus – Intensely moisturisers and lessens parchment-skin.
Heat the oil and apply and rub in the circular motion of 10-15 minutes. Overnight is preferable to enhance the absorption.
Food Suggestions in Dandruff Control
Ayurveda believes that external treatment can only be half of the solution. Internal balance is maintained by eating healthy food so that dandruff does not come back.
Recommended foods:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains such as brown rice and Oats.
- Herbal teas (two teas in particular herbal tea with turmeric or tulsi).
- Butter milk and Coconut water.
- Ghee as scalp food in little quantities.
Avoid:
- Fried and processed food
- Sugary snacks
- Excess coffee or alcohol
- Spicy or salty dishes
This is necessary because hydration is required, hence ensuring that one consumes at least 8 glasses of water every day to keep the scalp hydrated.
Daily Ayurvedic Routines to a Healthy Head
To ensure Ayurvedic treatment is really effective, the following daily habits are to be followed:
- Massage with hot herbal oil and frequently.
- Wash your head with a weak herbal shampoo or reetha-shikakai home made blend.
- Go to sleep early and deal with stress via meditation or yoga.
- Chemical hair products should not be used frequently.
- Be hydrated and eat a well-balanced diet with a lot of iron and vitamins.
These practices can over time entirely revolutionize the wellness of your scalp and hair.
When an Ayurvedic Doctor has to be consulted?
When the dandruff remains even after using home remedies, this could be a pointer to the dosha imbalance or infection of the scalp. A visit to an Ayurvedic doctor also does the diagnosis of your type of body (Prakriti) and prescribes customized herbs (formulations) or Panchakarma.
Final Thoughts
Ayurvedic dandruff and itchy scalp treatment is a holistic and chemical-free way of restoring the natural balance and health. It does not only eliminate the flakes in the short run but gets to the root of scalp irritation. With the help of regular oiling, herbal masks and proper dieting, visible changes can be achieved in a few weeks.
Be patient, always, and consistent. Ayurveda is not harsh since it performs its task in the long run and leaves your hair stronger, shiny and free of dandruff.