Originally published May 6 2011
Deal with dandruff naturally
by Shona Botes
(NaturalNews) Dandruff is a common ailment that many people deal with on a daily basis. It is characterised by white flakes, along with an itchy and often irritated scalp. It is thought to be caused by a yeast-like fungus known as malassezia or pityrosporum. This fungus normally exists on the scalp without causing problems, but it can sometimes grow unchecked due to stress or hormone imbalances. This causes mild inflammation which produces dead skin cells. These dead cells mix with the oil on the scalp and then appear as white flakes in the hair. Many people resort to using chemical-based shampoos to treat it, but there are many natural remedies which can be used instead.
Tea tree oil has been used for many years as an antiseptic as well as an antifungal treatment. Many people have reported that this oil helps to reduce the symptoms and appearance of dandruff. It also helps to balance the pH levels and unclog the hair follicles. Another home remedy which is effective is apple cider vinegar. Mix a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar with a quarter cup of water. This can then be placed into a spray bottle and sprayed directly onto the hair and scalp. This solution is then left on for approximately 15 minutes while the hair is wrapped in a towel. Once the towel is removed, the hair can then be washed normally. This treatment can be done once or twice each week.
Unrefined coconut oil is one of the best dandruff treatments available. By warming it up and massaging it gently into the scalp, it will help to reduce itchiness and normalise the scalp. This is best left on the scalp for a few hours at a time before washing it off.
Jojoba oil is also an excellent treatment for dandruff as it helps to moisturize and nourish the hair and scalp. Because it is a natural moisturising agent, there will not be any oily build up on the hair after using it.
Biotin is a water-soluble form of Vitamin B that helps to break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins. This nutrient helps to strengthen the hair substantially. It can be taken in supplement form or naturally. It is found in many foods such as organic egg yolk, royal jelly, brewer`s yeast, Organic Raw Certified milk and organic liver. Biotin is also produced naturally by bacteria within the intestines.
By using natural remedies, you will not have to resort to using chemical-based shampoos and treatments, which can often cause even more scalp irritation.
Sources:
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/conditionsat...
http://www.homeremediesfordandruff.org/natur...
http://www.himalayahomeremedies.com/homereme...
About the author
Shona Botes blogs about green living, budgeting, saving money, natural remedies and humour (which is often combined with the abovementioned topics). Her spare time is spent tending to her organic herb garden, cycling and engaging in photography.
Her blog may be viewed here
Some of her photography work may be viewed here
Other articles written by her may be viewed here
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