Dandruff is a normal condition of the scalp that causes the flakes of the skin to appear. Human skin cells are forever renewing themselves. As skin cells in the scalp in renewed, the old ones are pushed to the surface and then out of the scalp. But for people with dandruff, the new skin cells are produced at a faster rate than they die, resulting in more skin being shed, making dandruff (dead skin cells) more noticeable.
Possible factors which cause dandruff may include not enough hair brushing, yeast, dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis (irritated, oily skin), not enough shampooing, certain skin conditions, certain illness like parkinson’s disease or other neurological disorder, reaction to hair care products, malassezia, diet, mental stress, or HIV. Whatever the reason may be, Ayurveda recommends a wide array of natural treatment which can help you get rid of dandruff completely.
Some of the most common and most beneficial remedies are-
Amla: According to Ayurveda, amla is considered as one of the most effective remedy to cure dandruff. Applying hair oil containing amla fruit extracts can help reduce dandruff growth on scalp.
Methi: Methi is very effective in preventing dandruff, hair fall and baldness. Soak methi seeds in water overnight and grind it into a fine paste the following morning. Leave this paste applied to your scalp for about 30 minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
Tulsi: Tulsi leaves are very effective and long lasting cure for dandruff. Prepare a paste from the dried leaves of tulsi, apply this paste on the scalp and let it remain for half an hour before washing it off with water.
Neem: Soak some neem leaves in water and boil it. Use this boiled neem water to wash your hair. Neem leaves are known for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an effective treatment for dandruff.
Alabu: The seeds and peel of ash gourd or alabu should be boiled in coconut oil and applied to the hair to prevent dandruff, dryness of the scalp and promotes hair growth.
There are certain precautions that should be taken by a person suffering from dandruff. Following these simple steps could avoid contagion of dandruff
1) Avoid using combs used by other people. Especially, if the person is suffering from dandruff never use his/her comb as dandruff is highly contagious.
2) If you are suffering from dandruff and have been using an anti-dandruff shampoo, make sure you wash your comb every time after using the shampoo.
3) Shampoo atleast once a week. While washing your hair, avoid the water from your hair dripping down to your face as it may result in pimples.
4) Do not allow your hair to remain wet for long. Leaving the scalp wet for a long time facilitates growth of dandruff.