By Shahnaz Husain
Dandruff is a common scalp condition. In its mild form, it consists of loose white flakes, which may be noticed on the shoulders and back. In winter, due to lack of moisture, the scalp becomes dry and flaky. This kind of dandruff is the loose kind, which does not stick to the scalp.
Hot oil therapy is a useful home treatment. Once a week, heat olive oil or til oil; then, apply on the scalp with cotton wool. Rub gently to dislodge the flakes. Then dip a towel in hot water, squeeze out the water and wrap the towel around the head, like a turban. Keep it on for 5 minutes. Repeat the hot towel wrap 3 or 4 times. The next day, apply the juice of a lemon on the scalp and wash the hair after 15 minutes.
The hair should be washed two or three times a week. Use a mild herbal shampoo. After shampoo, add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a mug of water and use it as a last rinse.
For dandruff, add 5 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil to 50 ml rose water. Shake well and keep in a glass bottle with a tight fitting lid. Apply this on the scalp after shampoo, using cotton wool and leave it on. Essential oils should never be used by themselves.
Fenugreek (Methi) seeds: Grind one tablespoon of methi seeds coarsely and soak in two cups of cool water. Leave it overnight. Strain and use the water as a last rinse.
Neem leaves: Add two handfuls of neem leaves to four to five cups of hot water. Let it stand overnight. Next morning, strain the liquid and use it to rinse the hair. It relieves itching and keeps the scalp healthy and free from infections. It is useful in dandruff. Make a paste of the soaked neem leaves and apply on the scalp, rinsing off with water after half an hour.
If there is severe dandruff, combs, brushes, pillow covers and towels should be washed daily, in hot soapy water, adding a few drops of an antiseptic solution. Include fresh fruits, raw salads and sprouts in the daily diet. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily. Add the juice of a lemon to a glass of water and have it first thing in the morning.
About Shahnaz Husain
Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets” She was honored with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty Icon!
