Dandruff
Excessive shedding of dead skin from the scalp is known as Dandruff. Skin cells die and flake off, so a small amount of flaking is normal. Usually, the scalp skin dies and flakes off in a month, while in those suffering from Dandruff, this happens every 2-7 days. Apart from being a physical condition, dandruff is also associated with social and self-esteem problems in many individuals.
Causes :
A variety of factors can cause dandruff in hair, e.g. increased intake of dry, cold, oily, spicy, and penetrating foods, hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands such as sweat glands, environmental allergens such as dust, cobwebs, sunlight, certain fabrics, soaps, shampoos and even certain types of food are sometimes responsible for dandruff. Some people have skins that are sensitive to seasonal changes. These people are also very vulnerable to dandruff. Stress is directly related to dandruff. People who live in a constant state of anxiety are prone to dandruff. Excessive cosmetic hair treatments such as hair-conditioning and hair-coloring, using hair curlers, perms and hair-bonding often result in a weak skin and eventually lead to dandruff.
Symptoms
Appearance of white flakes on scalp
Dryness of scalp
Redness and irritation on the scalp
Softness of the scalp skin
Continuous itchy feeling on the scalp
View Of Ayurveda
Ayurveda places the problem of dandruff in the category of Shudra Roga, which appears due to an imbalance of all three doshas (Ayurvedic humor). The primary doshas involved are Pitta and Vata. Pitta is an Ayurvedic humor which symbolizes heat or fire and Vata is dry and rough in nature. In an aggravated state, both doshas cause production of specific impurities, called ama, which are dry and heating in nature. These impurities accumulate in the deep tissues of scalp and contaminate them. Contamination of the deep tissues and aggravated Vata-Pitta Dosha cause itching and patches on scalp. Due to these factors, the scalp sheds larger than normal amounts of dead epidermal cells, which leads to the problem of dandruff.
Diet & Lifestyle Advice
Wash hair regularly 2-3 times a week with a mild shampoo.
Massage your hair with oil every time before washing the head and hair.
Avoid spicy, greasy, hot and penetrating foods, junk food, and aerated drinks.
Have food with good nutritive value; include fiber-rich foods, salads, fruits, and lentils.
Do regular yoga and exercises to minimize stress levels.
Avoid scratching the scalp with hands or any other objects.
An ayurvedic treatment has wonderful results in Dandruff disease. It may cure permanantly if patient follow the complete course of treatment with all diet, life-style & panchkarma realeted advises.