Herbal Remedies for Men's Dry Scalp

Dry scalp occurs when the hair strands growing from the scalp are not properly lubricated by the oil glands. These glands, also called sebaceous glands, not only affect the dryness of the scalp, but also the luster and shine of the hair. When they are under-producing, a dry, itchy scalp and dull, lifeless-looking hair can be the result.

Causes

• If you have a dry scalp, the cause may be nutritional, due to not eating enough fatty acids--which can happen with adherence to strict or fad diets. Climate and season also can play a role; both winter, with its harsh conditions and overheated offices, and summer, with its almost-constant indoor air conditioning, can dry out your scalp. Men who travel on business are also vulnerable, because of the extremely dry air on airplanes and in hotels. Using a hair dryer, washing your hair with harsh shampoos, excess hair-washing, and using alcohol-laden gels and sprays can be other contributing factors. There's also an emotional component; stress seems to bring on episodes of dry scalp in some men. Finally, dehydration and overuse of diuretics such as caffeine can dry out your scalp.

Herbal Remedies

• If you consult an herbalist for dry hair, he may recommend jojoba oil, massaged into the scalp for five minutes before shampooing. This oil is believed to help the flakiness that comes with dry scalp, and its appealing fragrance and non-greasy feel make it pleasant to use. Essential oil of sage and rosemary oil are often recommended as well to moisturize hair and scalp. The herbalist may also advise a paste made from fenugreek seeds that have been soaked overnight in water, applied to the scalp and left for half an hour before shampooing.
  Make your own herbal scalp conditioner by heating a small bowl of herbal oil or olive oil and massaging it on your scalp, saturating hair as well. Comb through with a wide-toothed comb, then put a plastic cap over your hair and wrap your head in a hot towel. Leave the towel on overnight, and when you wake up, wash your hair with baby shampoo.
  With the right herbs and oils, you may be able to restore a healthy condition to your scalp and a shine to your hair.

Precautions

• Use caution to avoid burning your scalp with hot oil treatments or hot towels.If you suffer from epilepsy or high blood pressure, you should not use sage oil. In very rare cases, the use of rosemary oil has led to dermatitis; if you develop a rash, discontinue use and call your doctor.