Dandruff woes: Fight it the organic way

Using an essential oil as a part of your daily routine will not only treat dandruff, but also give you healthy hair. Lemon oil, basil oil and tea tree oil are some of the oils that you can add to bid adieu to scalp issues, says an expert.

Garima Singh, research and development manager, Organic Harvest, lists some essential oils for better results:

» Lemon oil:

Why: Besides being an antiseptic and anti-microbial, which helps fight dandruff and other secondary infections, lemon oil also renders a pleasant and long-lasting healthy fragrance to the hair. It also has clarifying properties

Note: Rinse the oil off thoroughly before stepping into direct sunlight, since citrus is known to react to sunlight.

» Tea tree oil

Why: It has anti- fungal and bacterial properties enabling it to exterminate bacterial and yeast formation on the infection-prone scalps. Tea tree oil is absorbed well by the scalp and can hence be left overnight to fight dandruff.

Note: It is always better to apply the oil in combination with other oils like jojoba or olive oil in order to reduce its concentration, to avoid itching and irritation on sensitive scalps.

»Basil oil

Why: Besides being a dandruff remedy, it also conditions your hair, and improves blood circulation promoting hair growth. It acts effectively against white flakes.

Note: Apply it preferably for an hour or so by mixing it with other oils such as lavender and rosemary as it helps attain clear scalp and glossy hair texture.

»Clary sage oil

Why: It is effective on oily, dry and frizzy hair. It also regulates oil production and controls dandruff by limiting the sebum in the scalp. Known for its distinctive herbal aroma, it also helps boost hair growth and reverses premature balding.

Clary sage oil works best when used in combination with mandarin oil and few drops of lemon oil.

Note: It is advisable for children and pregnant women to consult a doctor before application of this oil.

(With inputs from IANS)