Several conditions can cause an itchy, flaky scalp--dry skin or oily skin, psoriasis or eczema. Dandruff is often a by-product of these conditions. While not harmful or contagious, it is often uncomfortable and embarrassing. Many shampoos and conditioners are available over-the-counter and by prescription, but alternative herbal remedies may also help to control your itchy, flaky scalp.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of skin ailments. Preliminary information from lab, animal and human studies indicates aloe vera has properties that may improve skin inflammation and wound healing, according to the National Library of Medicine. The anti-inflammatory compounds in aloe vera soothe itchy scalps. Aloe also moisturizes the dry skin on the scalp. Rub aloe vera gel into your hair at bedtime, thoroughly massaging it into your scalp. Shampoo in the morning and repeat whenever necessary.
Rosemary
Rosemary has long been known to be good for your hair and scalp. The National Library of Medicine notes that rosemary has been reported to stop dandruff. Make a hair rinse by boiling water and then adding two tablespoons of fresh rosemary per cup of water. Cover and let the mixture steep overnight. Pour the infusion over your scalp after you've washed your hair. Catch the excess in a container and repeat.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil cleans the scalp and prevents dandruff, says Cynthia B. Olsen, author of "Australian Tea Tree Oil First Aid Handbook: 101 Plus Ways to Use Tea Tree Oil." To control dandruff, she recommends using a natural tea tree oil shampoo or any natural shampoo to which you have added 10 to 20 drops of tea tree oil. For an itchy scalp, massage five to 10 drops of tea tree oil into the scalp in addition to using the shampoo.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle can also be used for dandruff, according to the University of California Cooperative Extension, which offers a hair tonic recipe by herbalist Maud Grieve: Simmer nettles for two hours in a quart of water, strain, and let cool; saturate the scalp with the solution every other night. This will also give you soft, shiny hair.
Other Herbs
Boiling one teaspoon each of chamomile and calendula in a quart of water also makes a hair rinse to control dandruff, suggests Clayton College of Natural Health. When cool, rinse your hair thoroughly with the solution. Northwestern Health Sciences University recommends extracts of sage, rosemary and thyme, as well as garlic and English walnut. Regular hair washing also prevents an itchy, flaky scalp; the Ohlone tribe of California used soap root shampoo to keep dandruff at bay.
References
- National Library of Medicine: Medline Plus: Aloe
- GrannyMed.com: Home Remedies for Dandruff
- National Library of Medicine: Herb Garden: Rosemary
- "Australian Tea Tree Oil First Aid Handbook: 101 Plus Ways to Use Tea Tree Oil"; Cynthia B. Olsen; 1999
- University of California Cooperative Extension: Contra Costa Master Gardeners: Stinging Nettle
