
Dandruff is the excessive shedding of skin flakes from the scalp. Western medicine associates it with chronic skin inflammation that produces red scaling, itching, and flaky or scaling skin. Other symptoms include patchy scaling or thick crusts.
Ayurveda dandruff is classified as Shudra Roga-Daranakam. All three doshas are imbalanced, but Pitta and Vata are the primary ones.
When aggravated, both doshas cause the production of specific impurities, called ama, which are dry and healthy. These impurities accumulate in the deep tissues of the scalp, contaminate them, and cause itching and patches on the scalp. Due to these factors, the scalp sheds dead epidermal cells, leading to dandruff. When wet and oily, dandruff is associated with Kapha and Vata doshas, but predominantly Kapha because of the sebum production. This imbalance is associated with ama in the scalp, accumulating in the deeper tissues and causing itchy and scaly scalp conditions.
Causes
Hygiene
Seborrheic dermatitis from fungus Malassezia.
Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Improper food combination for doshas leads to malabsorption and Ama buildup.
Improper consumption, including artificial colors, flavors, and excessive use of spices.
Excess stress and anxiety.
Excess alcohol, acid curd, cold water and foods, and sunlight.
Healthy Food Choices:
Fruits: Mango, coconut, pomegranate, and citruses.
Fats: Ghee
Vegetables: Moringa (Indian drumsticks), leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, peppers, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and winter squashes.
Seeds and Nuts: Sunflower, pumpkin, chia seeds, almonds, pinenuts, and pistachios.
Omega-3: Flax, sardines, salmon, and shrimp.
Topical Remedies for Dandruff
Fenugreek soaked overnight, made into a paste with lime juice and yogurt, and applied.
Citrus Lemon mixed with olive oil and ginger juice (if possible) massaged on the scalp.
Neem oil is a powerful antifungal and antiviral that helps you fight dandruff.
Aloe Vera Gel massaged into the scalp has high antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Essential oils: Camphor and lavender are helpful when mixed with coconut or sesame oil.
Body Therapies: Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Nasya, and practice Virechana.
Herbals: Bhringaraja, neem, amalaki, sandalwood, licorice, hibiscus, and tulsi.
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