By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Dandruff
Herbal creams for dandruff are topical treatments made from natural herbs and plant extracts that help to alleviate the symptoms of dandruff, a common scalp condition characterized by flaking, itching, and redness.
Examples of herbal creams that help with dandruff include tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem, which have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
These creams improve lives by providing relief from uncomfortable symptoms, reducing flaking, and promoting healthy scalp hair growth, allowing individuals to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for dandruff, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Eucalyptus globulus
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Sesamum indicum
- 6. Azadirachta indica
- 7. Cymbopogon citratus
- 8. Curcuma longa
- 9. Zingiber officinale
- 10. Rosa centifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dandruff?
- What ailments similar to dandruff are treated with herbal creams?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with dandruff because of its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The active compound, cineole, in tea tree oil reduces the growth of Malassezia yeast on the scalp, which is a common contributor to dandruff.
The cream's soothing and moisturizing effects also help calm irritated skin and reduce flaking, while its ability to penetrate deep into the scalp promotes healthy hair growth and scalp balance, providing long-lasting relief from dandruff symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with dandruff.
- Cineole: Cineole helps with dandruff by its antimicrobial properties, which reduce the growth of fungi and bacteria that contribute to scalp infections and irritation.
- Terpinen-4-ol: Terpinen-4-ol has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing redness and irritation associated with dandruff.
- Limonene: Limonene has antifungal properties, which help to prevent the growth of fungi that contribute to scalp infections, such as Malassezia, a common cause of dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for dandruff.
- Leaves: They are rich in terpenes, particularly cineole, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help combat dandruff-causing microorganisms.
- Barks: The barks contain compounds like terpinen-4-ol, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing and treating dandruff.
- Flowers: They are a rich source of terpenes, including cineole and terpinen-4-ol, which contribute to the antifungal and antibacterial properties of the creams, helping to control dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for dandruff.
- Harvest 100g of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves to use in this recipe.
- Combine the harvested leaves with 500ml of carrier oil such as coconut oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for infusion.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container to remove the plant material.
- Mix 50g of beeswax with 100g of shea butter and 50g of the infused melaleuca alternifolia oil in a double boiler.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with dandruff because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe vera plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help to calm the scalp and reduce irritation. Aloe vera creams also have antifungal properties that help to control the growth of yeast on the scalp, a common cause of dandruff.
By reducing inflammation and controlling yeast growth, aloe vera creams can help to alleviate dandruff symptoms and promote a healthy scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with dandruff.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds help to soothe the scalp, reduce inflammation, and prevent fungal growth that contributes to dandruff.
- Acemannan: A type of polysaccharide, Acemannan has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help to calm the scalp, reduce dandruff symptoms, and promote a healthy scalp environment.
- Vitamins and minerals: These nutrients help to regulate the skin's natural oil production, reduce cell turnover and inflammation, and promote the health of the scalp, ultimately reducing dandruff symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for dandruff.
- Leaves: Aloe vera gel: It is the most commonly used part due to its soothing and moisturizing properties, which help to calm and alleviate dandruff symptoms.
- Leaves: Aloe vera juice: The juice extracted from the leaves is rich in vitamins and minerals that help to balance the scalp's pH and reduce flaking.
- Leaves: Aloe vera latex: The latex, also known as the sap, contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce redness and irritation associated with dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dandruff.
- Combine 3 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter to the bowl and heat until melted.
- Stir in 5 drops of vitamin e oil and 10 drops of lavender essential oil into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and solidify for about 30 minutes.
- Gently stir the cream with a spoon and transfer it to a storage container for later use.
3. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with dandruff because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The menthol and camphor present in these creams help to reduce itching and inflammation caused by dandruff, while the eucalyptol acts as a natural antiseptic to soothe and calm the scalp.
Additionally, eucalyptus oil has been shown to reduce the growth of yeast, a common cause of dandruff, making it an effective natural remedy for managing this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with dandruff.
- Cineole: This terpene helps with dandruff by reducing inflammation and promoting the removal of dead skin cells, thus alleviating the symptoms of dandruff.
- Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid has antifungal properties that can help control the growth of fungi and yeast on the scalp, which can contribute to dandruff.
- Limonene: This terpene has been shown to have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and irritation associated with dandruff, as well as promote a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for dandruff.
- Leaves: The leaves of Eucalyptus globulus are commonly used to make creams for dandruff due to their high content of eucalyptol, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The barks of Eucalyptus globulus are used due to their ability to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin.
- Essential oil from leaves: The essential oil extracted from the leaves is used due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to control the growth of microorganisms that cause dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for dandruff.
- Mix 200g of distilled water with 2g of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes to release the essential oils.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Add 10g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil to the container and melt over low heat.
- Whip the mixture until it cools and thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with dandruff because of its soothing and antifungal properties.
The calming effects of lavender oil can reduce inflammation and itching associated with dandruff, promoting a healthy scalp environment. Additionally, the oil's antimicrobial properties help control the growth of Malassezia yeast, a common contributor to dandruff. By balancing the scalp's natural pH and reducing fungal activity, English lavender creams can provide relief and help alleviate dandruff symptoms.
Regular use can lead to a healthier, flake-free scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with dandruff.
- Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of fungi that can contribute to dandruff.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene also has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help to soothe the scalp and prevent the development of dandruff-causing fungi.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and protect the scalp from damage, thereby preventing dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for dandruff.
- Leaves: They contain essential oils that provide antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and calm the scalp.
- Flowers: They are rich in essential oils with antimicrobial properties that help control fungal growth and reduce dandruff.
- Seeds: They contain antioxidants and fatty acids that help moisturize and soothe the scalp, reducing flaking and irritation associated with dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for dandruff.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and clean them thoroughly with a fine mesh strainer.
- Combine 1 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 2 cups of distilled water in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes, then let it steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl and discard the solids.
- Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax with 1/2 cup of coconut oil and the infused lavandula angustifolia liquid in a double boiler.
5. Sesamum indicum
Sesamum indicum, also known as sesame, creams helps with dandruff because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream contains sesamol, a natural compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe itchy scalps. Sesamum indicum creams also contain antioxidants that help to combat free radicals, which can contribute to dandruff.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to balance the scalp's natural pH, reducing flaking and irritation associated with dandruff, promoting a healthy scalp and hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesamum indicum creams that help with dandruff.
- Lignans: They help with dandruff by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of fungi, such as Malassezia, which contribute to the condition.
- Fatty acids: They help with dandruff by reducing inflammation, promoting a healthy scalp environment, and regulating the pH balance, which can help prevent fungal growth.
- Phenolic compounds: They help with dandruff by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing the symptoms of dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sesame used to make creams for dandruff.
- Seeds: Sesame seeds are commonly used to make creams for dandruff due to their rich source of antioxidants and fatty acids that soothe and moisturize the scalp.
- Leaves: Sesame leaves are used in creams for dandruff because they contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and itching on the scalp.
- Seeds (also): Sesame seeds are also used in creams for dandruff due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties that help control the growth of microorganisms on the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sesame for dandruff.
- Extract 50g of sesamum indicum seeds and grind them into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Combine 20g of the sesamum indicum powder with 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat for 10 minutes.
- Gradually add 20g of beeswax to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated and melted for 5 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in 10g of vitamin e oil and 5g of lavender essential oil for 2 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into small glass jars and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
6. Azadirachta indica
Azadirachta indica, also known as neem, creams helps with dandruff because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Neem oil, a key component in the cream, has the ability to control the growth of yeast on the scalp, a primary cause of dandruff. The anti-inflammatory properties of neem also soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and flaking.
Additionally, neem's ability to regulate the pH balance of the scalp helps to maintain a healthy environment, preventing dandruff and promoting a clear scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Azadirachta indica creams that help with dandruff.
- Limonoids: These compounds have been shown to inhibit fungal growth, which is often a contributing factor to dandruff, thereby reducing the severity of the condition.
- Azadirachtin: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help to soothe the scalp, reduce irritation, and prevent the growth of fungi that cause dandruff.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have been found to have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to control the growth of microorganisms on the scalp and reduce the symptoms of dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of neem used to make creams for dandruff.
- Seeds: Used due to their high concentration of neem oil, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties to help treat dandruff.
- Leaves: Used because they contain compounds that help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and flaking associated with dandruff.
- Seeds: Also used because they have been found to exhibit antiseptic properties, helping to prevent the growth of fungi that can cause dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic neem for dandruff.
- Harvest 100g of fresh azadirachta indica leaves and flowers and dry them in the shade for 3 days.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Melt 200g of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Combine the ground plant material with 50g of beeswax and 20g of vitamin e oil in a stainless steel bowl.
- Whip the mixture with an electric mixer for 10 minutes until it becomes a smooth and creamy texture.
7. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, creams helps with dandruff because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in lemongrass, such as citral and geraniol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal and bacterial organisms that contribute to dandruff. Additionally, lemongrass has a soothing effect on the scalp, reducing irritation and inflammation associated with dandruff.
The cream's moisturizing properties also help to balance the scalp's pH, promoting a healthy and flake-free scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus creams that help with dandruff.
- Citronellal: This sesquiterpene acts as an anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent fungal growth on the scalp that can contribute to dandruff.
- Geraniol: This monoterpenoid alcohol exhibits antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help control the growth of fungi and bacteria that can cause dandruff and scalp irritation.
- Limonene: This cyclic monoterpenoid has been shown to possess antiseptic and antifungal properties, helping to prevent the spread of fungal infections and reduce inflammation associated with dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make creams for dandruff.
- Leaves: Known for their high content of citral, a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent, which helps combat dandruff-causing fungi and inflammation.
- Rhyzomes: Rich in essential oils, particularly citral and geraniol, which possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and treat scalp irritations.
- Stems: Containing similar essential oils as the rhyzomes, stems help to calm and balance the scalp, reducing flaking and itchiness associated with dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for dandruff.
- Harvest 100g of cymbopogon citratus leaves in the early morning when the dew is still present on the leaves.
- Steam distill the harvested cymbopogon citratus leaves at 100°c for 2 hours to obtain the essential oil.
- Mix 10g of the obtained essential oil with 20g of a carrier oil such as jojoba oil in a glass container.
- Add 5g of a moisturizing ingredient such as beeswax and 5g of a thickening agent such as stearic acid to the mixture.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly and then heat it in a double boiler at 60°c for 10 minutes to create the herbal cream.
8. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with dandruff because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The curcumin present in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp, thereby reducing the flaking and irritation associated with dandruff. Additionally, turmeric's antifungal properties help control the growth of Malassezia, a fungus that contributes to dandruff.
The cream's moisturizing properties also help to balance the scalp's natural pH, promoting a healthy and dandruff-free scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with dandruff.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp, thereby alleviating symptoms of dandruff.
- Volatile oils: The volatile oils present in Curcuma longa, such as turmerones, have antifungal and antibacterial properties that help control the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp, which can contribute to dandruff.
- Polysaccharides: Turmeric polysaccharides have been shown to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing the severity of dandruff symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for dandruff.
- Rhyzomes: The active compound curcumin found in the rhyzomes has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help to soothe and treat dandruff.
- Seeds: The seeds contain a high amount of essential oils and fatty acids, which help to moisturize and calm the scalp, reducing dandruff and itchiness.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp, making them effective in treating dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for dandruff.
- Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried curcuma longa root in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes to make a tea.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of beeswax with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Add 2 tablespoons of the curcuma longa tea to the beeswax and coconut oil mixture.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and becomes a smooth cream consistency within 10 minutes.
9. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with dandruff because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The active compounds present in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the scalp, thus preventing the formation of flaky skin. Additionally, ginger's natural antifungal properties help control the growth of yeast on the scalp, a common cause of dandruff.
This dual-action approach makes ginger creams a popular natural remedy for soothing and calming the scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with dandruff.
- Gingerol: Helps with dandruff by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp, which can contribute to flaking and itchiness.
- Shogaol: Exhibits antifungal properties that can inhibit the growth of Malassezia, a yeast that can contribute to dandruff, thereby reducing flaking and itchiness.
- Curcuminoid: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing redness and flaking associated with dandruff.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for dandruff.
- Roots: Roots are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of fungus that causes dandruff, thanks to the presence of compounds like gingerol and zingerone.
- Leaves: Leaves are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and soothe the scalp, reducing flaking and itchiness associated with dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for dandruff.
- Combine 100g of zingiber officinale rhizomes with 200ml of carrier oil in a clean glass container.
- Heat the mixture at 60-70c for 2 hours in a double boiler or a warm water bath.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container.
- Add 10g of beeswax and 5g of candelilla wax to the mixture and melt at 70-80c.
- Pour the mixture into small glass jars and allow it to cool and solidify completely.
10. Rosa centifolia
Rosa centifolia, also known as damask rose, creams helps with dandruff because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The rose's ability to soothe and calm the scalp reduces irritation and inflammation, which can contribute to dandruff. Additionally, the antifungal properties of damask rose help control the growth of yeast on the scalp, a common cause of dandruff.
By using Rosa centifolia creams, individuals can experience relief from dandruff symptoms, promoting a healthy and balanced scalp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa centifolia creams that help with dandruff.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, reducing redness and irritation associated with dandruff.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds can help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria that contribute to dandruff, thereby promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Salicylic acid: A beta-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid can help exfoliate the scalp, removing dead skin cells and other debris that can contribute to dandruff, while also reducing inflammation and itching.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make creams for dandruff.
- Flowers: They are used due to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm the scalp.
- Leaves: They contain compounds that exhibit antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to control dandruff-causing fungi and bacteria.
- Seeds: They contain essential oils that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp associated with dandruff.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for dandruff.
- Infuse dried rosa centifolia petals in a carrier oil like sweet almond oil in a 1:10 ratio for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Combine 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the wax melts.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool and thicken before filling into glass jars.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dandruff?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with dandruff is a blend of Tea Tree oil, Aloe Vera, and Coconut oil-based creams.
Tea Tree oil's antifungal properties combat scalp infections, while Aloe Vera soothes and calms the scalp, reducing itchiness and flaking. Coconut oil's moisturizing properties help lock in hydration, preventing dryness and dandruff recurrence. This combination creates a balanced and nourishing formula that effectively treats dandruff, promoting a healthy and flake-free scalp.
Regular application can lead to long-term relief and a manageable scalp.
What ailments similar to dandruff are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to dandruff/creams.html">dandruff/creams.html">dandruff that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
These conditions cause inflammation and flaking of the skin, often leading to itching, redness, and scaling.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and burdock root can help soothe and calm these symptoms, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin regeneration.