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Essential Oils for Dandruff

Sep 25, 2010 | By Willow Sidhe

Dandruff, a chronic scalp condition that causes itching and flaking skin, results from abnormal activity of the sebaceous glands. In most cases, dandruff does not pose a serious health risk. Mild cases may require nothing more than regular shampooing with an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo. Essential oils can often help reduce dandruff symptoms, particularly in mild cases. However, MayoClinic.com recommends consulting your doctor if the condition doesn't improve after several weeks of using home treatments, or if your scalp becomes red and swollen. This may indicate a more serious condition, known as seborrheic dermatitis, that resembles dandruff.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that may help reduce dandruff. A study published in 2002 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology examined the effects of tea tree oil on patients suffering from mild to moderate dandruff. In the study, patients received shampoo containing 5 percent tea tree oil or a placebo daily for four weeks. At the end of the study, patients treated with tea tree oil experienced a 41 percent improvement in symptoms, which included itching, greasiness and scaliness. Patients receiving the placebo reported an 11 percent improvement. The authors of the study concluded that tea tree oil appears to provide a safe and effective treatment for dandruff.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil increases circulation to the scalp, stimulates the scalp and reduces flaking caused by dandruff, explains Bill Gottlieb in his book "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies." Combining rosemary essential oil with a fatty carrier oil, such as almond or avocado oil, and massaging the mixture into the scalp may help relieve dandruff symptoms. For best results, mix two to three drops rosemary oil with 1 tbsp. carrier oil, and massage this directly into the scalp for two minutes a day. Wait at least 30 minutes and shampoo as usual to remove oily residue.

Other Essential Oils

Many other essential oils may help alleviate dandruff, especially those with antifungal and antibacterial properties. In "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," Valerie Ann Worwood recommends lemon, lime, birch, basil, thyme, cypress, lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, sage and carrot seed essential oils for dandruff. Cedarwood, patchouli and pine essential oils may also provide relief. Add any of these oils to homemade or unscented shampoos. To make a healing anti-dandruff treatment, combine 15 drops essential oil, 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 1 oz. spring water. Massage 1 tsp. to 2 tsp. directly into the scalp each night before bed, and wash your hair as usual in the morning.

References

Article reviewed by Anton Alden Last updated on: Sep 25, 2010

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