It is difficult when surveying current dermatology literature to identify much of a clinical difference between severe dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Often the terms are used interchangeably.Because the apparent causes of both these conditions--Malassezia fungi, sebaceous secretions, and individual sensitivity--and because the treatments that are effective in either condition are common to both, we are prone to talk of them as effectively one and the same.

A causal connection between the fungus Malassezia (primarily the species M. restricta and M. globosa) and severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis is largely based on the ability to isolate Malassezia from seborrheic lesions on the scalp or body, and the therapeutic effectiveness of antifungal treatments in killing Malassezia. A reduction in the number of Malassezia cells almost invariably leads to improvement in the condition, and the only link between the varied treatments most effective at reducing scaling and itch is their antifungal properties.

Complicating this picture, however, is the fact that the number of Malassezia cells one might "possess" doesn't necessarily translate into a case of dandruff. Malassezia is a common and normal microbe among many that populate the human body. The fungus metabolizes the triglycerides and fat contained in the sebum secreted from the skin's sebaceous glands for its survival. An individual may have fewer Malassezia cells relative to someone with many, yet the person with fewer cells may suffer the case of dandruff while the other remains dandruff-free. What's the difference?

Read about Why Some People Have Dandruff and Natural Remedies

Ayurvedic Treatment for Dandruff

Ayurvedic medicine is a traditional system of healing native to India, and practiced in many other regions worldwide as part of an integrative approach to medical practice. Ayurveda is itself an integrative approach to healing and health that focuses on attaining a well-functioning metabolism through diet, exercise, yoga, meditation, and massage. Botanical remedies prescribed in Ayurveda have been derived from centuries of experience with herbs, spices, and plant extracts. Medicinal herbs are used in cooking, foods, water, oils for consumption, liniments for massage, and drinks, or as part of personal hygiene and self-care. Ayurveda heals through a holistic approach and attitude toward life as much as through the specific medicinal qualities of its remedies and treatments.

Medicated oils are prepared in Ayurveda and liberally used for a variety of conditions. The oils themselves may possess medicinal properties, such as sesame oil, a common oil medium from which other medicinal oils are formulated. A particular remedy may contain as few as two herbs, added to an oil medium and heated according to a specific recipe. As many as 73 herbs are used in other formulations, with each herb enhancing the overall medicinal benefit.

Let's take a closer look at the plant species used in Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicine's healing effect.

Discover Ayurvedic Hair Treatments

When using diet to support the reversal of chronic skin conditions, most of the dietary recommendations are universal regardless of specific diagnosis. Potential removal of gluten and/or casein along with an anti-inflammatory plant-based, whole foods diet, and a mountain of persistence are starting points for recovery. With severe dandruff, additional emphasis on specific micronutrients and probiotic supplements may be beneficial.

Deirdre's tips and sample menu show you how to integrate micronutrients into your diet in the midst of a busy lifestyle to improve severe dandruff symptoms.

Get Diet Tips and Sample Menu

DermaHarmony is a Great Place to Start

Our programs promote healthy skin with nutritional supplements, cleansing and detoxification, pH balancing, mild topical treatments and dietary guidance. Radiant skin begins with a proper diet and optimized nutrition for your body!

• To learn more about the approach, visit How it Works.
• To assess your symptoms, take our on-line Skin Assessment.
• If you have questions, don't hesitate to call us at 1-800-827-3730.
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