Dandruff

Dandruff can be substantially controlled by the diet, including specific vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients.

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The common name for seborrhoea of the scalp, describing small flakes and scales of sebum and skin cells which catch in the hair. Dandruff is harmless and almost universal. Studies have shown that causes of dandruff include not washing the hair and scalp enough, an inadequate diet, yeast infections and inefficient carbohydrate metabolism. Investigations have found a severe form of dandruff that is caused by a fungus called Pityrosporum ovale. Severe dandruff can lead to hair loss and possibly baldness.

Food allergies may cause dandruff. Eating lots of sugar, yeasty foods or drinking alcohol can cause dandruff in some people. Also too much citrus is thought to contribute to dandruff in some people.

Dandruff can be substantially controlled by the diet, including specific vitamins and minerals and other natural ingredients. The B complex vitamins (make sure they are yeast free), the antioxidant nutrients Vitamin C, E, Beta Carotene and Selenium are also helpful. You can take these individually or try an antioxidant formula such as Enzogenol ACE and Selenium. Vitamin A and the trace mineral Zinc are important for scalp and skin health, and warm Olive or Jojoba oil with 2-3 drops of 100% Tea Tree or Manuka essential oil is useful as a topical treatment. Massage into the scalp regularly. A great ready made preparation is Living Nature's Intensive Oil which contains beautiful ingredients to nourish the scalp.

Nutritional and Herbal support for Dandruff includes:

Primadophilus - Essential for a yeast overgrowth, one of the common causes of dandruff.

Vitamin B Complex 100 - The B complex vitamins are essential for all skin and hair problems.

Tea Tree Shampoo - Specifically for a dry, itchy, flaky scalp.

Fish oil/Evening primrose oil - Essential fatty acids are vital for all problems relating to the hair, skin and nails.

Some interesting points on Dandruff:

Eat a diet of 50-75% raw foods.

Eat soured products such as yoghurt.

Avoid fried foods, dairy products, sugar, flour, chocolate, nuts and seafood.

Drink no less than 2 litres of water a day.

If you have bowel irregularity, this is a common cause for dandruff and other skin problems.