Hair plays a vital role in enhancing the personality of a human as they are the first noticeable part of beauty for both men and women. Even minor changes in hairs like greying of hair, early hair fall affect the self-confidence and self-esteem of an individual. Premature grey hair, hair loss, dandruff, fungal infections are the common hair problems. Dandruff is a common scalp disorder affecting almost half of the population at the pre-pubertal age and it is mainly due to exposure towards microbes, chemical agents and biological toxin present in the environment. Although the dandruff may be non-threatening, it can negatively affect person’s self-esteem and body image.
The hair beauty of individuals to a great degree depends on the health, habits, diet, routine job, climatic conditions and maintenance. Scientists revealed several etiopathologic pathways with complex mechanisms responsible for dandruff but it is widely accepted that Malassezia (lipophilic yeast) plays a lead pathogenic role in dandruff. This yeast is a member of normal cutaneous microflora in humans and many domestic and wild animals. As lipophilic fungi, they colonize skin rich in sebaceous glands. They are considered opportunistic pathogens that may cause, under favorable circumstances, various skin diseases.
By using antifungal or antibacterial preparations, dandruff problem can be controlled temporarily but cannot be cured permanently. There are a large number of synthetic anti-dandruff products in the market which can be used to treat dandruff but the problem is that, after withdrawal of treatment, the clinical situation recurs. Most of the anti-dandruff products have steroids and prolonged use of steroid is not good for health. Therefore, the best alternative is plant-based products. There are several plants that have been studied for their anti-dandruff potential such as rosemary, tea tree, indigo, lavender, eucalyptus and many more.
Research studies showed that Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria) is the best choice for the management of dandruff and seems to be a promising remedy for all hair problems. Indigofera tinctoria is a well-known herb that has been evaluated for its anti-ulcer, anti-histaminic, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. Major phytochemical constituents present in various parts of indigo plant are galactomannan, glycoside, indigotin, flavonoids, terpinoids, alkaloids and glycosides, indigotine, indiruben and rotenoids. Indigotin is an organic compound with a distinctive blue color and a natural dye, extracted from the leaves of indigo plant. Leaf powder of indigo is also used for coloring grey hair. In order to get rid from dandruff, mix one part of henna leaves powder, three parts of indigo powder, lemon juice and water to make a smooth paste. Keep it for one hour and then apply this paste to hair and wash after one hour with a mild shampoo; you will get a beautiful brown colored hair, free from dandruff. For better results, apply three to four times a month. If your scalp is sensitive, make sure you start every new thing with a patch test.
In addition, it is important to remember that shampoo, mask, colors, antidandruff products even plant-based products are not sufficient to provide various nutrients which are necessary for hair growth and hair health. Hence, for healthy hair growth; healthy and balanced diet is very important as deficiencies in vitamins B12 and D, biotin, riboflavin, iron, and other nutrients are associated with hair loss and other hair problem.