Natural Health: What can I do about my flaking scalp?

Is there a cream or lotion I could use on my scalp?

My scalp has started flaking, probably due to being indoors so much. Is there a cream or lotion I could use?

Our scalps can become irritated for several reasons. Triggers can include anything from reactions to ingredients in our hair care products to sugar and fat intake, stress levels, and gut bacteria.

Eliminating processed sugars and fats is the first step for a healthy scalp. Swap processed sugars for whole fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid fruit juices and dried fruits, as these can exacerbate a flaking or irritated scalp.

Most cases of flaking and itching scalp are caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Pityrosporum ovale. Sugar contributes to this issue by overfeeding the yeast (and bacteria) naturally found on our skin and bodies, causing it to multiply out of control.

Highly processed seed oils, particularly in deep-fried foods, are another contributing factor. Switch these out for cold-pressed oils and essential fatty acids (EFA) found in oily fish, nuts, seeds, and fatty fruits (such as avocado), or take an EFA supplement.

While processed fats and oils contribute to scalp conditions, healthy fats are necessary for healing and maintaining a healthy scalp. EFAs can help regulate skin cell production, balance the skin microbiome, and soothe inflammation.

The gut microbiome is also important for skin health as intestinal issues are closely linked with skin health and support the immune system. Taking a probiotic supplement and increasing naturally fermented foods may help ease your symptoms by balancing beneficial gut bacteria.

Take scheduled breaks during the day to step outside if you can. Natural light is important for our emotional wellbeing and a factor in maintaining a healthy microbiome. Incorporating breathing exercises, gentle movement, and meditation into your day will help reduce stress levels, and balance organ health and function.

Instead of a cream or lotion, it is worth investing in natural light therapy for your scalp if you cannot spend time outdoors. This treatment is usually recommended for SAD (seasonal affective disorder). However, it is excellent for healing and balancing the skin.

Check if a practitioner offers light therapy in your area or purchase a lamp that simulates natural daylight. For natural light products, check out Brighter Day (brighterday.ie; 01-2819105).

Consider a witch hazel spray if you want to apply a topical solution to your scalp. Witch hazel extract (Hamamelis virginiana) is a natural astringent for tonifying and soothing irritated skin. It is effective in dealing with dryness, flaking, and dandruff, as well as combatting excessive oil or greasiness in the hair.

I’m in my late 20s, and my periods have become irregular. It started about six months ago when my boyfriend broke up with me, which I wasn’t expecting. Is there a natural remedy I could take?

Stress can impact your menstrual cycle, so practising mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, or gentle flow exercises daily is important.

I recommend the herbal remedy agnus castus (also known as Vitex, Monk’s Pepper, or Chasteberry) for regulating the menstrual cycle. Agnus castus is best taken once daily following breakfast — improvements can appear relatively quickly, but treatment should be continued for a minimum of six months for long-lasting results.

If you are taking a tincture preparation (typically 1:5 strength), take 1-3ml (20-60 drops) each morning. Capsules should be taken at a dosage of 500-1,000mg daily.

NOTE: Agnus castus should not be taken by individuals who are using hormonal contraceptives or undergoing IVF treatment.