Dandruff

Dandruff is the excessive shedding of scalp skin flakes.  Western medicine associates it with chronic skin inflammation that causes red, scaling, itchy, flaky 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 scalp's deep tissues, contaminate them, and cause itching and scalp patches. Due to these factors, the scalp sheds dead epidermal cells, which can lead to dandruff.  When wet and oily, dandruff is associated with the Kapha and Vata doshas, but predominantly with Kapha due to sebum production. This imbalance is associated with scalp ama, which accumulates in deeper tissues and causes itchy, scaly scalp conditions.

Causes

Hygiene

Seborrheic dermatitis from the fungus Malassezia.

Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Improper food combination for doshas leads to malabsorption and Ama buildup.

Improper consumption, including the use of artificial colors and flavors, and excessive use of spices.

Excess stress and anxiety.

Excess alcohol, acid curd, cold water, foods, and sunlight.

Healthy Food Choices:

Fruits: Mango, coconut, pomegranate, and citrus.

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) is 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 strong 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.