How to treat dandruff, naturally
Dandruff, like halitosis is one of those social awkward things that we all want to get rid off as soon as we can!! Regular dandruff shampoos sold at pharmacies can contain some pretty nasty toxins, but this condition is actually very easy to treat naturally.
What is dandruff?
Aussie naturopath Mim Beim says in her Natural Remedies book, “dandruff is a fungal condition where the skin of the scalp sheds white scales.”
It can be caused by overused of hair products, hormonal imbalance, stress, a diet low in fatty acids, poor circulation and/or genetics.
How do you treat it?
This is the method we have always used for dandruff or itchy scalp – it works so well and it’s good to see that it’s recommended by Mim Beim as well.
Mix around 2 tablespoons of warmed coconut oil with 5 drops of tea tree oil. Apply to hair, massaging it well right into the scalp. Leave for at least an hour (or overnight if you can) and then shampoo out thoroughly. You may need to shampoo twice with hot water to get all the coconut oil out.
You may need to repeat this a few times over a few weeks if the condition is really bad. Coconut oil and tea tree oil both have powerful anti-fungal properties. We always make sure we have both in the house as part of our natural first aid kit!
What else can you do?
As well as treating the fungal infection with the coconut oil and tea tree, Mim also suggests drinking more water, cutting back on sugar and yeast (severe issues may involve a candida diet – see your health practitioner) and increasing good fats and oils.
You should also avoid chemicals and hair products that irritate the scalp. If you want to follow up with a natural shampoo and conditioner specifically for dandruff, try Aussie brand, Daily Naturals.
Have you tried this natural remedy? Would you give it a go?
Thank you for the information. What about cradle cap? My 8 year old son still has it and wondering if I can use this same treatment? Thank you!
Hey Melissa
I just checked my book for you and yes, same method. Tea tree oil is very safe around kids, but of course use the carrier oil too. 🙂
Great, thanks so much for your reply, will give it a try!
Hi,
I have struggled with dry and itchy scalp for over 20 years. It definitely flares up when I’m stressed and I can be left with lumps dry skin on my scalp.
Yes it’s embarrassing, but it is more of a concern for me because I don’t understand how to get rid of it. I have lots of hair and it’s thick as well and I find it hard to get oil into the scalp. I will try this, but do you have any tips for getting the oil to the scalp?
Thanks
Hi Jayne, I find wet hair easier to deal with and I guess it’s just perseverance and trying to really massage it in with your fingertips. If you are getting it a lot, I suggest visiting a naturopath and asking about your overall health as it could be even your gut health or allergies causing it. xx