The discomfort caused by an itchy scalp can distract you in the midst of your day and make you miserable in the process. Even though an itching scalp rarely indicates a serious health issue, you can find a number of natural ways to discover relief, from homemade rinses to healing pastes. If you think you may be experiencing ongoing dandruff, though, or a more serious chronic skin condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis, then consult your health care provider for additional treatment options. Use caution, as well, when trying new home treatments so as to avoid any potential allergic reactions or other complications.
Lemon Blend
Fresh lemon juice blend may help to reduce if not eliminate the discomfort of an itchy scalp. S. Suresh Babu, in "A Treatise on Home Remedies," recommends this simple skin tonic. To prepare, blend three parts of fresh lemon juice to one part of sandalwood oil or coconut oil. Shake the mixture vigorously in a bottle, and then apply generously to the scalp. Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Repeat daily as needed.
Yogurt Paste
Minimize the discomfort associated with an itchy scalp through a regular yogurt paste. Babu suggests this natural home remedy. To prepare, soak 25 g of dry alma, also known as Indian gooseberry, in one liter of water overnight. In the morning, boil this mixture until it reduces by half. Then, add 25 g of yogurt and blend into a paste. Apply the paste to your scalp and leave in place for one hour. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, and repeat weekly for two to three months.
Bay Leaves
Itchy scalp may be reduced through an herbal rinse made with bay leaves. The home remedy guide "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems," suggests this rinse as an effective treatment for scalp discomfort and for occasional dandruff. To prepare, pour a quart of boiling water over a handful of crushed bay leaves, and then cover and let steep. After 20 minutes, strain out the leaves and allow the liquid to cool. Then, apply the rinse to your scalp and leave in place for an hour before rinsing with cool water.
Tea Tree Oil
The antifungal properties of tea tree oil may help to reduce the discomfort of an itching scalp. Recommended in the "1,801 Home Remedies" guide, this treatment can help to clear up scalp conditions. To prepare, blend 1 tbsp. of tea tree oil with 1 tsp. of olive oil or grape seed oil, and then apply the mixture to your scalp. Wrap your hair in a towel and leave the oil blend in place overnight. Wash and rinse as normal.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar may help to relieve an itchy scalp and reduce dandruff or dry skin as well. The "1,801 Home Remedies" guide suggests this treatment as a way to kill off any fungi or bacteria that may be contributing to scalp issues. To prepare, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar with distilled water. Then, shampoo your hair as normal, and use the apple cider blend as a rinse afterward. Repeat daily until you see the desired results.
References
- "A Treatise on Home Remedies"; S. Suresh Babu; 2000
- "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems"; Reader's Digest Books; 2004
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