Hello Nithish Reddy, Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff are common scalp conditions. In Ayurveda, seborrheic dermatitis is often referred to as ‘Darunak’ and is believed to be caused by an imbalance of the Vata and Kapha doshas. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is to address the root cause by balancing these doshas and purifying the body. Here’s a breakdown of common Ayurvedic approaches and remedies for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff on the scalp:
1. Ayurvedic Principles and Therapies Balancing Doshas: The primary focus is to balance the aggravated Vata (dryness, flakiness) and Kapha (oily, greasy skin) doshas. Panchakarma: For more severe or chronic cases, a practitioner might recommend detoxification therapies like: Virechana (Purgation): Cleanses toxins from the body to help manage the underlying cause of the condition. Takra Dhara (Buttermilk Pouring): This therapy involves pouring medicated buttermilk on the forehead, which is believed to have a calming effect and can help with scalp issues. Topical Applications (External Remedies): Medicated Oils: Oils infused with herbs are often used to nourish the scalp, reduce inflammation, and combat fungal growth. Examples include oils containing neem, tea tree oil, or specialized Ayurvedic formulations like Marichyadi Thailam or Durdurapathradi Keram. Herbal Pastes/Hair Washes: Pastes made from herbs like Triphala, Neem, and Daru Haridra (tree turmeric) are applied to the scalp to cleanse and soothe it. Herbal Shampoos: Natural cleansers like Reetha (soapnut) and Shikakai are used as alternatives to harsh chemical shampoos . 2. Specific Ayurvedic Herbs and Ingredients Neem: Known for its powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties, neem is a cornerstone of many treatments for skin and scalp conditions. It can be used in oil form, as a paste, or as a hair rinse. Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, Amla helps purify the scalp, strengthen hair, and boost immunity. It can be used as a paste or consumed internally. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia): This herb is used internally to detoxify the body and strengthen the immune system, which helps address the systemic inflammation often associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Daru Haridra (Tree Turmeric): An anti-inflammatory herb that can be applied topically to soothe irritated skin. Fenugreek (Methi): Soaking fenugreek seeds overnight and making a paste to apply on the scalp can help cleanse and fight fungal infections. Tea Tree Oil: While not traditionally an Ayurvedic herb, it’s widely recognized for its antifungal properties and is often diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil for scalp application. Aloe Vera: Its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties make it a good remedy for soothing an itchy, inflamed scalp. 3. Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations Diet: Ayurveda suggests a diet that helps balance the doshas. This may include: Increasing bitter vegetables, cooked greens, and leafy vegetables. Including foods like turmeric, cumin, and ghee. Avoiding foods that can aggravate the condition, such as excessive salty, sour, cold, or oily items, as well as curds and black gram. Lifestyle: Practice good hygiene. Avoid using hair and skin products containing alcohol or harsh chemicals. Manage stress, as it can be a trigger for flare-ups. Therapies like Shirodhara can be beneficial. It’s important to remember that Ayurveda focuses on a personalized approach. The specific treatment plan, including the herbs and therapies used, can vary depending on your individual body type (Prakriti) and the specific nature of your condition.
1) Dhatupatradi oil ext application 2 times massage for 10 min
2) madhusnuhi rasayana 1 tsf after food with water
3) scurfol lotion apply and leave for 30 min and then take bath
Hello Nithish ji, I can understand your concern regarding Seborrheic dermatitis. But dont worry we are he here to help you out 😊
Seborrheic dermatitis with dandruff is a very common scalp condition but can be quite distressing due to itching, scaling, and hair fall.
👉You mentioned that shampoos have not helped much — that is expected, because they only clear surface flakes for a short time, but the root cause remains uncorrected.
Ayurveda works on both internal cleansing and external scalp care to provide lasting relief.
✅AYURVEDIC PLAN OF TREATMENT
✅EXTERNAL APPLICATION FOR SCALP -
👉Neem + Coconut oil: Mix equal quantities, warm it slightly, and apply to the scalp 2–3 times weekly. Keep for 30–45 minutes before washing. ( Neem is antifungal and reduces infection, while coconut soothes itching.)
👉Aloe vera gel (fresh/pure): Apply to scalp at night once or twice weekly ( It cools, reduces redness and scaling, and promotes healing.)
👉Medicated oils: Classical oils like Bhringraj Taila, Nimbadi Taila, can be used for regular massage.
👉Herbal hair wash: Instead of chemical shampoos, use Shikakai, Reetha, and Amla-based powder or a mild herbal cleanser to gently clean scalp.
✅ INTERNAL REMEDIES (for detox & dosha balance)
1 Triphala powder: 1 tsp with warm water at night – helps detoxify liver and intestines, reducing toxins that worsen dandruff.
2: Gandhak Rasayan 2-0-2 After food – purifies blood and reduces skin infections.
3 Mahamanjishtadi kashaya 15ml-0-15ml +45 ml water after food – useful in recurrent skin/scalp conditions (consult physician for exact dose).
✅DIET MODIFICATION
❌Avoid: Oily, fried, excessively spicy food, bakery/junk food, curd at night, excessive sweets, and cold drinks.
✅Include:
Bitter vegetables (karela, neem leaves, methi) – reduce fungal growth. Fruits like amla, pomegranate, papaya, and seasonal fresh fruits. Warm water through the day – supports toxin removal. Herbal teas with ginger, tulsi, or coriander seeds.
✅ LIFESTYLE AND SCALP HYGIENE TIPS
✔️Wash scalp 2–3 times weekly – avoid daily shampooing with harsh products. ✔️Do not use very hot water; lukewarm water is best. ✔️Manage stress with yoga, pranayama, meditation – stress is known to worsen seborrheic dermatitis. ✔️Get 7–8 hrs of quality sleep, as poor sleep weakens immunity and aggravates itching and hair fall. ✔️Expose scalp to early morning mild sunlight for 10–15 minutes (helps fungal control).
If there is severe scaling, oozing, or excessive hair fall, or if the condition spreads to face, ears, or body, you should consult an Ayurvedic physician.
Sometimes, Panchakarma therapies like Shirodhara, Takradhara, or Virechana (purgation therapy) are highly beneficial for chronic seborrheic dermatitis.
Wish you a good health😊
Warm Regards Dr Snehal Vidhate
You can start on Kayakalpa vati-one tablet twice daily before food with warm water Kaishore guggulu- Neemghan vati- 1 tab twice after food with warm water Haridra khanda-of teaspoon with warm water after food twice daily Mahamanjistadi aristha-4 teaspoon with equal quantity of water twice daily after food Avoid oily spicy fried and non vegetarian foods Mahabringa raja taila - weekly once
Hello Nithish, I recommend the following treatment plan to get clear scalp - Treatment - 1. Panchtikta ghrit guggul 2-0-2 after meals. Crush these tablets into 2-3 parts for better absorption. 2. Psorogrit -2-0-2 after meals. 3.Tankan bhasma -5gms - Mix it with coconut oil and apply on hair ,leave for 2-3 hours and then shampoo.
Diet- . Avoid fried food, spicy food,food that are soury. . Avoid curd, pickle.
Yoga- Sheetali, sheetkari, anulom vilom, bhastrika. Follow this treatment plan and you will get clear scalp. Regards, Dr. Anupriya
Don’t worry apply takana bashma and lemon juice on effected area, arogya vardini vati 1tab bd, mahamanjsiadhi gana vati 1tab bd, khadiarista 20ml bd
Apply Karanj oil on scalp twice weekly Take Gandhak rasayan 1-0-1 after food with water Mahamanjistadi kadha 15 ml twice daily after food with water No need to daily have head bath with shampoo. Use neem shampoo twice weekly to wash your hair. Avoid Direct Sun rays exposure use hat or use umbrella when going out during the day.
1.Neemghana vati 2 tab twice daily after meals 2.Panchtikta ghrita guggulu 2 tab twice daily after meals 3.Khadirasrishta 20 ml with 20 ml water twicce daily after meals 4.Neem oil-massage on your scalp one night prior head wash thrice weekly
Massage your scalp with DHURDHURPATRAADI OIL.
And start taking1.Mahatiktak kwath 20ml with equal amount of Lukewarm water empty stomach twice in a day. 2.khadirarishta 20ml with equal amount of Lukewarm water just after having meal twice in a day. 3.Gandhak rasayana 1-1-1 4.kaishore guggulu 2-0-2 for chewing.
Follow up after 45 days.
Take care😊
Kind Regards , Dr.Isha Ashok Bhardwaj
Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp can be troublesome, manifesting through itching and flaking, leading to discomfort and hairfall. In Ayurveda, this condition is often a result of an imbalance in the Pitta and Kapha doshas. So, addressing it involves balancing these elements.
1. Diet: Opt for a Pitta and Kapha pacifying diet. Reduce consumption of spicy, oily, and fermented foods. Incorporating more cooling and hydrating foods like cucumbers, coriander, and buttermilk can help. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Eating freshly cooked, light meals is beneficial.
2. Hair Care: Avoid using chemical-laden shampoos. Instead, consider washing your hair with a mixture of Shikakai and Amla powder. A gentle herbal approach can be very soothing for the scalp.
3. Oil Massage: Before washing your hair, apply an oil such as coconut or neem oil, adding a few drops of tea tree oil, for its antifungal properties. Massage it into the scalp gently, leave for an hour, then wash it out. This promotes blood circulation and reduces flaking.
4. Triphala: Taking Triphala powder at night with warm water can improve digestion and help in detoxifying the body, which is crucial for addressing skin-related issues.
5. Lifestyle: Ensure regular sleep patterns and manage stress levels, as stress can aggravate skin conditions. Practice yoga or meditation, as they are beneficial for calming the mind and body.
6. Neem Paste: Prepare a paste from fresh neem leaves and apply it on the scalp. Leave it for 15-20 minutes before washing off. Neem’s antifungal and antibacterial properties could be helpful.
Remember, Ayurvedic treatments are gradual and holistic, typically involving changes in multiple aspects of life. If the condition persists or worsens, I would strongly recommend seeking advice from a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner directly to personalize treatment further.
HELLO NITHISH,
WHAT IT IS= A long- standing scalp condition where the skin produces too much oil (sebum) and harbours yeast/fungi , leading to dandruff, itching, redness, and sometimes hairfall
WHY IT HAPPENS -Modern science= due to Malassezia yeast, excess sebum, genetic tendency, stress or immune response -Ayurveda= imbalance of Kapha (oily, sticky qualities) and Pitta (heat,inflammation). Together they make the scalp greasy , itchy, inflamed, and prone to flaking
It’s not dangerous, but it’s chronic and relapsing- meaning it tends to come back if only surface level measure are taken. That’s why ayurveda emphasizes root correction.
TREATMENT GOALS -clear the flakes and reduce itching -normalize scalp environment (reduce excess oil + fungal growth) -strengthen hair roots and reduce hair fall -balance kapha and pitta internally through diet and medications -prevent recurrence with long term lifestyle alignment
INTERNAL MEDICATIONS
1) GANDHAK RASAYANA= 250 mg twice daily after meals =purifies blood, reduces itching, antifungal
2) AROGYAVARDHINI VATI= 1 tab twice daily after meals =liver support, balances metabolism, reduces oiliness
3) MAHAMANJISTHADI KASHAYA= 20 ml twice daily with equal water before meals =blood purifier , skin detoxifier, reduces inflammation
4) BHRINGARAJASAVA= 20 ml with equal water twice daily after meals =supports hair growth, reduces hairfall
5) TRIPHALA CHURNA= 1 tsp at bedtime with warm water =improves digestion, mild detox, reduces scalp toxins
DURATION= usually 6-8 weeks
EXTERNAL APPLICATIONS
MEDICATED OILS -Neem oil + coconut oil= antifungal, cooling, itch relief -bhringaraj taila= strengthens root, prevents hairloss -Nalpamradi or Kayyanyadi taila= scalp cleansing oil
HERBAL HAIR WASH INSTEAD OF CHEMICAL SHAMPOO -Shikakai. + reetha + amla powder mix - mild cleanser, nourishes hair -Neem leef decoction rinse weekly - antifungal -Triphala decoction rinse for balancing scalp
HOME REMEDIES -Aloe vera pulp applied to scalp 30 min before wash -Fenugreek seeds soaked overnight, ground into paste applied weekly -lemon juice diluted in water as last rinse (reduces oiling dandruff)
DIET -cow milk+ghee= builds Ojas, nourishes dhatu -black sesame seeds= asthi dhatu enhancer -soaked almonds(5-6)= omega 3+ protein -fresh amla(or juice)= rasayana, anti-pitta -moong dal khichdi= easily digestible -curry leaves(raw/chutney)= rich in iron and vitamin c -dates, figs, raisins= rasa dhatu replenishment
AVOID -spicy, fermented, fried , junk food -late night meals -overconsumption of tea, coffe, carbonated drinks -alcohol, smoking
LIFESTYLE + DAILY ROUTINES
MORNING ROUTINE -Wake before 6 AM= aligns with brahma muhurtha if possible
-GANDUSHA(oil pulling) with sesame oil= removes ama from head and neck
-NASYA= instill 2 drops of ANU TAILA in each nostril every morning- clears srotas, enhances hair nourishment
-SHIROABHYANGA(Hair oiling)- calms vata, strengthens follicles
-LIGHT YOGA- enhances circulation to scalp
-Avoid tight caps/helmets for long hours -keep scalp clean, but avoid overwashing
HAIR WASH -use herbal decoctions- shikakai, Geetha, amla, powder boiled and filtered -avoid chemical shampoo, hot water -wash 2-3 times/week max
YOGA ASANA -Adho much svanasana(downward dog)= increases scalp blood flow -Sarvangasana= stimulates thyroid, nourishes head region -Shirshasana= direct blood flow to scalp -Ustrasana, Matsyasana= opens up chest and throat, affects hormonal balance
PRANAYAM -Bhramari= calms mind, improves oxygen to hair roots -Anulom vilom= balances vata- pitta -Sheetali/sheetkari= pitta shamak
MEDITATION -daily 15 mins of Trataka(candle gazing)+ Dhyana
-Seborrhic dermatitis isn’t cured overnight- it’s a condition that needs steady management -Ayurveda looks at it holistically : clean scalp + internal balance + good digestion + stress control -Think of it as long-term scalp care routine = lifestyle tune up, not just a “shampoo cure” -With consistency 6-12 weeks, most people see reduced flakes, less itching, and improved hair health
DO FOLLOW
HOPE THIS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
THANK YOU
DR. MAITRI ACHARYA
Seborrheic dermatitis can be persistent but addressing it through Siddha-Ayurvedic principles might offer some relief. The approach we’ll take centres around balancing your skin and scalp’s doshas, primarily using pitta and kapha-reducing strategies.
First, start with an oil massage using neem oil, known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Neem helps pacify pitta and clears blocked pores, reducing inflammation. Warm a small quantity of neem oil and gently massage it into your scalp, leaving it on for about 30 minutes before washing with a mild herbal shampoo. Using this treatment two to three times weekly can help.
To manage the dandruff and support overall scalp health, a paste made of fenugreek seeds can be highly beneficial. Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight, grind them into a paste, and apply it to your scalp. Let it sit for around 30 minutes before rinsing. Fenugreek is known to balance kapha and soothe the scalp.
Diet-wise, favor foods that support pitta balance, like amla and bitter greens. Ensure adequate hydration, and minimize spicy, oily, and dairy-rich foods that could worsen symptoms. Remember that digestive health is often mirrored in skin and scalp conditions. Ensure your agni, or digestive fire, is balanced with proper meals and timely eating.
Mind to include stress-reducing practices like pranayama or yoga as stress can aggravate symptoms. However, if the condition worsens or doesn’t improve, please consider consulting a healthcare professional for a personalized examination and treatment.
Nimbghan. 1-0-1 Giloyghan vati 1-0-1 Haridra khand 1/2-0-1-2 tsp with warm water Avoid spicy oily fermented foods
According to Ayurveda, hair health is primarily governed by -Pitta dosha= responsible for metabolism and heat in the body -Vata dosha= causes dryness and frizzy hair when aggravated -Heredity is also known as Bija dosha in Ayurveda
Internal Management Plan 1) Bhringraj churna- 3 gm once daily after dinner with warm water or honey =Hair regrowth, reduces hair fall
2) Amla churna- 5 gm in the morning empty stomach with lukewarm water =Antioxidant, Pitta, strengthens hair
3) Ashwagandha churna- 1 tsp at bedtime with warm water =Hormonal balance, reduces stress
4) Triphala churna- 1 tsp at bedtime with warm water =Detox, improves gut health
5) Brahmi vati- 1 tab at bedtime with snack =Reduces stress 6) Mahabhringaraj Oil Capsule - 1 cap after dinner
=Promotes hair growth from within
External Oils and Applications
1) Neelabrungadi Oil = Warm slightly and apply on scalp 3-4 times/week
=Prevents premature graying and hair loss
2) Bhringraj Oil - Massage gently in circular motion every other day =Strengthens roots, promotes regrowth
3) Coconut Oil+Curry Leaves = Warm, apply gently after cooling 2 times/week
=Reduces dryness and frizzy hair
Leave the oil on for 1-2 hours or overnight and then wash off with a mild shampoo
Herbal Hair Wash
- Shikakai+Reetha+Amla Powder- 1:1:1 = Mix 2 tablespoons in water, soak overnight, apply the paste as shampoo Use 2 times/week
If hair fall If it is very severe So take this too -Kesh Raksha Capsule- 1 cap twice a day after meals
-Chyawanprash- 1 tsp in morning =Revitalizing, immunity supporter
-Saptamrita Loha- 1 tab twice a day
Diet and lifestyle -Eat- Ghee, Amla, soaked almonds, pumpkin seeds, curry leaves, coconut Avoid- Spicy, sour, salty, fried food, cold drinks, excessive tea/coffee
Hydration- atleast 8 glasses/day -Sleep- 7-8 hours, avoid staying up late at night
Yoga and Pranayama -Adhomukhaasana -Uttanasana -Sarvangasana -Vajrasana -Balasana -Paschimottanasana
Pranayama -Anulom Vilom -Bhramari -Kapalbhati -Sheetali -Be patient. Ayurveda treatment often takes 2-3 months to show significant improvement
Follow it consistently for 3-6 months
Thanks
Dr. Hemanshu Mehta
