If you have a dry scalp, exercise caution because it may, at any time, result in itching or dandruff. Poor hygiene habits or other causes such as sweat or pollution, can also cause dry or flaky scalp. However, neem can come to your rescue.

We’re pretty sure you’ve heard of the beauty benefits. Neem, commonly referred to as the ‘wonder tree’, is well known for its many medicinal uses, including the treatment of dry scalp.

Dr Sonali Kohli, Consultant Dermatologist and Venereologist at the Dermatology department of Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, spoke to Health Shots about the causes of dry scalp or dandruff and how neem can help you get rid of them.

What are the causes of dry scalp

Sebum (natural oils), hair products, sweat, and dead cells all contribute to scalp accumulation. This is what causes the buildup of the scalp, which produces flakiness. In fact, if it isn’t addressed, it can lead to scalp issues like acne and dandruff on the scalp in addition to itching and other difficulties.

Here’s how neem can help to treat dry scalp and other hair issues:

Neem offers a number of positive effects for hair. Here’s why it’s helpful:

• Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties that reduce the side effects of dandruff, dry scalp and scalp infection.
• Being rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamin E and other essential nutrients it can prevent hair fall and ward off dandruff.
• Your roots become stronger and healthier as a result of improved blood circulation in the scalp; thus, your hair also becomes shinier, stronger, and healthier.
• Hair follicles are actively cleaned and strengthened by neem. It can be used to treat hair both dry and oily.
• No matter how good your hair is, the potent combination of neem and anti-dandruff shampoo can work wonders for your hair and scalp issues.

Here are 3 neem hair masks to cure dry and flaky scalp condition:

1. Ghee and neem hair mask

Ingredients

3 tablespoon ghee
15-20 crushed neem leaves
1 tablespoon honey

Method

* Add the ghee, neem leaves and honey in a bowl together.
* Mix well all the ingredients and let it rest overnight.
* Now, heat this mixture on low flame for 2 to 3 minutes.
* It is ready to apply! Now apply this hair mask on your scalp and length of your hair.
* Wait for half an hour and then rinse your hair using a mild shampoo.

2. Curd and neem hair mask

Ingredients

2 tablespoon curd
15-20 crushed neem leaves

Method

* Add the curd with crushed neem in a bowl.
* Mix well, and apply this mixture onto the scalp gently along the length of your tresses.
* Massage the scalp for 5 minutes at least.
* Now, let it sit for 30 minutes, before rinsing it off with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.

3. Amla and neem hair mask

Ingredients

10-12 drops of amla juice
15-20 crushed neem leaves
Water

Method

* In boiling water, add amla juice, crushed neem and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
* Now apply this mixture on your scalp along the length of your hair.
* Massage your scalp for 3 to 5 minutes so that it can absorb the nutrition.
* Now rinse it with warm water and mild shampoo.

Make sure that you use any of these hair masks twice a week to treat your flaky or dry scalp condition quickly!