Excessive shedding of skin flakes from the scalp Usually, the scalp skin dies and flakes off in a month, while in those suffering from Dandruff, this happens every 2-7 days. More commonly seen in young adults. It is most often caused by a yeast organism that grows in the scalp…
Symptoms
Appearance of white flakes on the scalp
Dryness of scalp
Softness of the scalp skin
Some times associated with inflammation of eyelids
Extensive dandruff caused scaling of the skin and other areas of the body such as the face, chest and back
Ayurvedic Perspective
Ayurveda places the problem of dandruff in the category of Shudra Roga-Daranakam which appears due to an imbalance of all three doshas (Ayurvedic humour). The primary doshas involved are Pitta and Vata. In an aggravated state, both doshas cause the production of specific impurities, called ama, which are dry and heating in nature. These impurities accumulate in the deep tissues of the scalp and contaminate them. Contamination of the deep tissues and aggravated Vata-Pitta Dosha cause itching and patches on the scalp. Due to these factors, the scalp sheds larger than normal amounts of dead epidermal cells, leading to dandruff.
Main Procedure
The Ayurvedic line of treatment is to generally pacify Pitta and Vata through herbal medicines, as well as a tailor-made diet and lifestyle plan.
This includes Siro abhyangam, Sirolepanam, Kshalanam, Siro dhoopanam, thalapothichil, Sirodhara etc.
Panchakarma treatments such as Virechanam, Nasyam etc. are also applicable.
Rasayana therapy to improve general health to correct nutritional deficiencies
Expected Outcome
Usually, within 2 weeks, it gets completely relieved. As this is a recurrent condition, it may flare up over months.
Diet
Avoid excess sugar, salt, dairy products, meat, acidic food
Avoid spicy, fatty, hot and penetrating foods, junk food, and aerated drinks.
Have food with good nutritive value; include fibre-rich foods, salads, fruits, and lentils.
Activity restrictions
Do regular yoga and exercises to minimize stress levels.
Avoid scratching the scalp with your hands or any other objects.
Proper washing of your hair and personal hygiene is important.
Massage your hair with oil every time before washing the head and hair
