By Crissie Mergogey

Despite the negative social stigma about dandruff, at least 50 percent of people struggle with a flaky scalp.  So, if you have dandruff, you are not alone.  An itchy, flaky scalp is a widespread issue caused by a variety of factors ranging from diet and gut health to genetics.

It may sound gross, but dandruff is usually caused by a type of fungus.  No need to freak out! It is possible to get rid of it.  Most dandruff shampoos contain harsh chemicals to kill the fungus. Luckily, there are plenty of natural remedies to fight dandruff!

ESSENTIAL OILS

Tea tree oil is a powerful anti-fungal. It is so powerful that only a tiny amount is needed to see positive results for dandruff.

Frankincense oil is another effective anti-fungal for dandruff. It has also been shown to fight candida and staph microbes, which may also contribute to an irritated scalp.

Lavender oil can soothe an itchy scalp while also fighting bacteria and fungi.

To use essential oils on the scalp, add a few drops to 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil (like coconut oil), massage it on to the scalp, let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash your hair normally.

RAW HONEY

If you think putting honey in your hair is a bad idea, think again.  Raw or Manuka honey is a great natural remedy for soothing the scalp and fighting dandruff-causing microbes.  Plus, honey is full of nutrients that will condition your hair!

Raw honey is pretty thick stuff, so it is best to dilute it with warm water first.  Try a mixture of 2 tablespoons honey with 2/3 cups of warm water.  To make it more effective, add essential oils to the mix!

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

The malic and acetic acids in apple cider vinegar work together to shed off excess skin cells and fight microbes that cause dandruff.  For best results, find a vinegar with “the mother.”

Mix 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup water and coat your scalp with the mixture.  Wash it off after an hour. 

PROBIOTICS & A HEALTHY DIET

You’ve probably heard that eating probiotics can improve digestive health, but did you know they are good for skin health too?  Skin is covered in microbes, and most of them are good to keep around.  Dandruff occurs when a certain fungus takes over the good microbes.  To keep the good microbes healthy, add more probiotics and prebiotics to your diet.  Probiotics are good microbes that are found in kombucha, kimchi, and sauerkraut.  Prebiotics are foods that feed the good bacteria, which include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds.