Remedies For Severe Dry Scalp

Severe dry scalp commonly occurs due to inadequate oil production near exiting hair follicles. Nutrition, dehydration, over-shampooing and environmental factors can lead to dry scalp, resulting in dry hair, itching, dandruff and flaky skin. While severe itching and dryness of the scalp requires consultation with a physician, alternative home remedies may warrant a try in the interim.

Olive Oil

The olive has been cultivated for more than 4,000 years for its fruit and valuable oil. Olives contain potent antioxidant and emollient properties that herbalists find suitable for soothing dry and itchy scalp. Although a 2007 study reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that Malassezia globosa, a dandruff-inducing fungus, actually feeds off of extra-virgin olive oil, practitioners of alternative medicine suggest rubbing the oil directly into your scalp to relieve itchy dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.

Although the debate over olive oil's efficacy to treat severe dry scalp is still ongoing, you may want to give it a try. Heat olive oil in the microwave and apply it onto your scalp with a wide-toothed comb. After massaging the oil into your scalp, cover your head with a shower cap, and leave it on overnight. Cleanse your hair with baby shampoo in the morning.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil was used as early as ancient Roman times for its many therapeutic applications and currently ranks as one of the the most economically significant herbal medicine crops produced in the United States. Refreshing and stimulating, peppermint oil can help relieve itching associated with dry scalp. Although further scientific evidence is needed to confirm peppermint oil's efficacy in treating dry scalp, according to Dr. Deepak Chopra, author of the book "Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide," the European Scientific Cooperative in Phytotherapy approves peppermint oil for the treatment of severe itching.

Add three drops of peppermint oil to your shampoo regimen, and gently massage your scalp. Pregnant women should not use peppermint oil.

Avocado

Avocados, traditionally used to treat skin problems, contain vitamins A, B-complex, C and E. According to Dr. C. Norman Shealy, author of the book "Healing Remedies," the pulp of avocados provides antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant agents useful in treating mild eczema. In addition, herbalists use avocado pulp to rejuvenate skin and hair and soothe dry, itchy scalp.

Cut an avocado in half, scoop out the pulp and mash it. Mix in two egg yolks. Apply the paste to wet hair and leave it on for 20 minutes. Massage the paste into your scalp for two minutes; rinse with warm water. No adverse effects have been found with the topical use of avocado.