Dandruff is a scalp condition that is characterized by dry, white flakes of dead skin from the scalp. They often get caught in the hair or stick to clothing. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., dandruff can occur as the result of a disorder in the oil-secreting, or sebaceous, glands. Dandruff may also occur due to hormonal imbalances, diets high in sugar, vitamin and nutrient deficiencies, trauma or illness.There are a variety of herbal remedies recommended by alternative and natural health practitioners. Consult with a health care professional before beginning treatment with an herbal remedy.
Scalp Massage
Scalp massage treatments can be used to reduce the appearance of dandruff. According to "The Aromatherapy Bible," by Gill Farrer-Halls, applying three drops of tea tree essential oil and three drops of lavender essential oil, blended into 2 tsp. of a base oil, three to four times a week reduces the appearance of dandruff. Base oils are oils that dilute essential oils to make them gentler to use on the skin. Sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, evening primrose oil, jojoba oil and rosehip seed oil are all suitable base oils for the treatment of dry skin.
For dandruff caused by seborrheic dermatitis, a disorder of the sebaceous glands, follow the same procedure, listed above, substituting sandalwood, bergamot and lemongrass essential oils for the the lavender and tea tree oils.
Herbal Dandruff Shampoo
To reduce the appearance of dandruff, make your own herbal dandruff shampoo. "Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty," by Roberta Wilson, recommends blending four drops of lemon oil, four drops of clary sage oil, six drops of rosemary oil, six drops of pine oil, eight drops of cedarwood oil and ten drops of tea tree oil with 8 oz. of unscented shampoo. Mix thoroughly and use daily for best results.
Herbal Scalp Treatment
Make a deep herbal scalp treatment to reduce the appearance of dandruff. "Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty," recommends blending three drops of pine oil, four drops of cedarwood oil, six drops of rosemary oil and eight drops of tea tree oil with 2 oz. of jojoba base oil. Massage the mixture into the scalp and leave it on for a half an hour. The scalp should be clean when beginning the treatment. Shampoo the mixture out with an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo or the herbal dandruff shampoo listed above. This procedure can be repeated three to four times a week. For a deeper treatment, leave the mixture on overnight.
References
- "Prescription fo Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Aromatherapy Bible"; Gill Farrer-Halls; 2005
- "Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty"; Roberta Wilson; 1995
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