Natural Herbal Remedy For An Itchy Scalp

According to the Merck Manuals website, there are four mechanisms of itching: skin disorders, systemic diseases that affect other organs besides skin, certain neurological conditions and psychiatric issues. Common causes of itchy scalp include dry skin, inflammations and infections of the skin, and allergic reactions to food or medications. The treatment is based on the underlying condition. General conventional medications include antihistamines and corticosteroids, and both conventional and alternative health care professionals recommend soothing creams based on menthol, camphor or chamomile. Talk with your doctor about any skin condition before attempting home treatment.

Examples

Chamomile is a plant that grows in Europe, Africa and Asia. Its active ingredients are a volatile oil, anthemic acid, tannic acid and glucosides. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory, anti-histaminic and antibacterial properties. It also stimulates skin metabolism and faster healing.

Menthol is the active ingredient in peppermint and other mint oils. Menthol creates a cooling sensation by sensitizing skin receptors to cold and it has anti-itch qualities.

Camphor is a natural substance and key ingredient of Cinnamonum camphora, an evergreen tree that grows in China, India and Ceylon. Camphor helps reduce the itchiness and inflammation of the skin and has other medicinal qualities.

Research

A study published in the July 2008 issue of the "Journal of the American Academy of Oncology" by J.M. Haught and colleagues found that a combination of menthol and camphor was beneficial for treating skin itchiness associated with drug allergies.

A study conducted by Aertgeerts and colleagues, published in the February 1985 issue of "Zeitskhrift Fur Hautcrankheiten," found that a chamomile-based cream was more efficient that topical corticosteroids in treating inflammatory skin conditions associated with itchiness.

Safety

According to Drugs.com, no common side effects have been reported with the proper use of chamomile and camphor, but both products cause severe allergic reactions in very rare cases. Camphor ointment can be harmful if ingested and should not be used for children younger those 2 or pregnant women. Menthol-based ointment has a safe profile, but can cause allergic reactions in susceptible people and should not be used if the skin is cut or extremely irritated and damaged.

Forms

Creams, gels, ointments and oils are the most common forms of herbal products for itchy scalp. Other available forms of chamomile and peppermint include tea and tinctures.

Considerations

Consult a qualified practitioner to find optimal preparations and dosages for treating itchy scalp. Finding the underlying condition that causes itchy scalp is essential.

Camphor, chamomile and menthol might cause allergic reactions and could interact with other drugs or herbs.