"Shiroabhyanga for darunaka management: a scientific review"
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Applications of shiroabhyanga (head massage) and it’s role in the management of darunaka (dandruff) � a scientific review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Deepti M.R
Assistant Professor, Department of Kriya Shareera, Ashwini Educational Association Ayurvedic Medical College and PG Centre, Davanagere, Karnataka.
Jayanthi.C
Professor and HOD, Department of Kayachikitsa, Ashwini Educational Association Ayurvedic Medical College and PG Centre, Davanagere, Karnataka.
Bali Yogitha M.R
Professor and HOD, Department of Shareera Rachana, Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College, Bangalore.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Applications of shiroabhyanga (head massage) and it’s role in the management of darunaka (dandruff) � a scientific review
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i2.716
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Dandruff, referred to as Darunaka in Ayurvedic science, is a common scalp disorder characterized by flaking and itching, significantly affecting individuals� self-esteem and social interactions. This condition, which results from modern lifestyles, dietary habits, and high-stress levels, necessitates effective management. Traditional practices, especially Shiroabhyanga (head massage), are experiencing a resurgence as they contribute to hair and scalp health while alleviating stress. This review examines the applications of Shiroabhyanga and its efficacy in managing Darunaka, drawing on various studies that validate this ancient therapeutic method.
The Role of Shiroabhyanga in Hair Health
Shiroabhyanga, involving the application of medicated oils to the scalp, promotes healthy hair and scalp conditions. The mechanical effects of massage combined with the properties of specific oils enhance blood circulation in the scalp, facilitating better nutrient delivery to hair follicles. Studies highlight that scalp massages can positively influence hair growth by affecting dermal papilla cells essential for healthy hair regeneration. By integrating oil application with head massage, this therapeutic practice not only combats dandruff but also targets underlying factors like dryness and itchiness that lead to hair fall.
The Efficacy of Various Oils in Treating Darunaka
Different medicated oils have been identified for their specific benefits in managing Darunaka. Tea tree oil, known for its antifungal properties, effectively addresses the Malassezia fungus associated with dandruff. Coconut oil is celebrated for its moisturizing and nourishing effects on hair, reducing protein loss while facilitating hair regrowth. Additionally, formulations containing fenugreek seeds, Ricinus communis, and various Ayurvedic blends (like Triphaladi Taila) have shown significant effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of dandruff and improving overall scalp health. Each oil works by addressing specific doshic imbalances—primarily Vata and Kapha—that contribute to Darunaka.
Conclusion
Darunaka poses a significant challenge for those affected, often leading to discomfort and potentially more severe hair issues. While commercial hair products are readily available, they frequently fail to offer complete solutions. This review reinforces the importance of Ayurvedic practices like Shiroabhyanga in managing dandruff through the use of traditional medicated oils. With various studies underscoring the synergy between oil applications and massage, practitioners can effectively utilize these methods to promote scalp health and alleviate dandruff, providing a valuable alternative to contemporary treatments. Future research in this area may further enhance our understanding of these traditional therapies and their applications in modern clinical settings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Shiroabhyanga in treating dandruff?
Shiroabhyanga, or head massage, is an ancient Ayurvedic practice using medicated oils that can alleviate dandruff (Darunaka) by improving blood circulation, nourishing the scalp, and addressing dryness. It helps to relax the mind and contributes to overall hair health.
How does Darunaka (dandruff) affect individuals psychologically?
Darunaka can lead to self-consciousness and embarrassment due to its aesthetic impact. Individuals suffering from dandruff often experience psychological issues related to decreased self-esteem and social discomfort, as they may feel unhygienic or untidy.
What oils are effective for treating Darunaka?
Several oils, including Tea Tree Oil, Coconut Oil, and combinations like Coconut Oil with Turmeric, have shown effectiveness against dandruff. These oils possess antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and conditioning properties that help to manage symptoms and promote scalp health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for �"Shiroabhyanga for darunaka management: a scientific review"�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Hair:
Hair is considered a major component of an individual's appearance, playing a role in physical perception and self-esteem. Disorders like dandruff (Darunaka) and hair fall are common complaints involving the hair that can affect one's social and psychological well-being.
2) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, or oil, is used extensively in Ayurvedic practices, particularly in Shiroabhyanga (head massage). Different medicated oils, such as Triphaladi Taila and Gunjataila, are used to address various scalp and hair problems including Darunaka (dandruff). Taila pacifies the aggravated Doshas and aids in disease management.
3) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut oil is highlighted for its benefits in hair care, particularly in treating dandruff. It acts as a conditioner, helps in the re-growth of damaged hair, and keeps the scalp free from lice and dandruff due to its nutrient-rich composition and antibacterial properties.
4) Disease:
Diseases like Darunaka (dandruff) affect the scalp and hair, impacting both physical appearance and psychological state. Ayurveda considers dandruff as a Kshudraroga and provides various treatments involving Shiroabhyanga and medicated oils to manage such scalp diseases.
5) Blood:
Blood circulation is improved through practices like Shiroabhyanga, wherein the gentle massage with oils increases blood flow to the scalp, enhancing nutrient delivery and promoting scalp health. This process helps in the treatment of scalp disorders like Darunaka.
6) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas, particularly Vata and Kapha, play a crucial role in Ayurveda. The vitiation of these Doshas contributes to the manifestation of scalp diseases like Darunaka. Treatments like Shiroabhyanga with specific Tailas aim to balance these Doshas to alleviate symptoms.
7) Katu:
Katu refers to the pungent taste in Ayurvedic terminology. It is a significant property in many medicinal oils and herbs used in the treatment of Darunaka, helping to reduce Kapha and improve conditions of the scalp.
8) Drug:
In Ayurveda, various medicated oils and formulations are considered as drugs for the treatment of Darunaka and other scalp disorders. For instance, Triphaladi Taila and Yashti Churna are used for their therapeutic properties to manage dandruff effectively.
9) Guna:
Guna refers to the qualities or attributes of substances. In the context of oils used for Shiroabhyanga, qualities like Snigdha (unctuous), Laghu (light), and Tikshna (sharp) play a crucial role in the therapeutic effects on Darunaka and overall scalp health.
10) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is a therapeutic massage practice in Ayurveda. Shiroabhyanga, the head massage, is specifically recommended for treating scalp conditions like Darunaka. It involves the application of medicated oils to the scalp to balance Doshas and promote hair and scalp health.
11) Tikta:
Tikta, meaning bitter taste, is one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. Herbs and oils with Tikta rasa are often used in treating conditions like Darunaka because they help balance Kapha and purify the skin by reducing excessive oil and microbial presence.
12) Tila:
Tila (sesame) is commonly used in Ayurvedic oils. Sesame oil is known for its nourishing and Vatahara (Vata-pacifying) properties. It is used in formulations like Dhurdhurapatradi Taila for Shiroabhyanga to treat Darunaka and other scalp issues.
13) Vata:
Vata is one of the three primary Doshas in Ayurveda. Its vitiation can lead to dryness and other scalp issues like Darunaka. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on pacifying Vata using oils with Snigdha Guna to restore balance and health to the scalp.
14) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive taste of a substance in Ayurveda. Oils and herbs with Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive taste) like Yashti churna are beneficial in treating scalp conditions as they soothe and nourish the scalp tissues.
15) Laghu:
Laghu means light and is one of the Gunas (qualities) described in Ayurveda. Oils and herbs with Laghu Guna are easily absorbed and do not cause heaviness, making them ideal for treating conditions like Darunaka where lightness and easy absorption are desired.
16) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu means itching, a common symptom of Darunaka (dandruff). Ayurvedic oils and treatments focus on alleviating Kandu by using ingredients with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, such as coconut oil mixed with turmeric or Yashti churna.
17) Virya:
Virya refers to the potency or energetic effect of a substance, which can be heating (Ushna) or cooling (Sheeta). Oils with Ushna Virya are used to pacify Vata and Kapha in treating scalp conditions like Darunaka, providing warming and balancing effects.
18) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa is the taste of a substance in Ayurveda and plays a crucial role in its therapeutic action. Tastes like Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent) are commonly used in oils for Shiroabhyanga to treat Darunaka by balancing Kapha and improving scalp health.
19) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three primary Doshas in Ayurveda. Its imbalance can lead to conditions like Darunaka. Ayurvedic treatments aim to reduce excess Kapha using oils with Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent) tastes that help to manage oiliness and flaking.
20) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to the hot potency of a substance in Ayurveda. Oils with Ushna Virya, such as those used in Shiroabhyanga, help to pacify Vata and Kapha Doshas, providing warmth and aiding in the treatment of scalp conditions like Darunaka.
21) Tilataila (Tila-taila):
Tila-taila, or sesame oil, is extensively used in Ayurvedic practices, especially in Shiroabhyanga for treating Darunaka. It has nourishing qualities and Vatahara properties, making it effective in pacifying the dry and scaly symptoms associated with dandruff.
22) Fenugreek:
Fenugreek (Methi) seeds are used in Ayurvedic treatments for their anti-dandruff properties. Studies show that fenugreek has effective antifungal activity against Malassezia furfur, the fungus commonly associated with dandruff, making it beneficial for scalp health.
23) Rukshata (Ruksata):
Rukshata refers to dryness, a common symptom of scalp conditions like Darunaka. Ayurvedic oils used in Shiroabhyanga are chosen for their Snigdha (unctuous) properties to counteract Rukshata and provide the necessary moisture and nourishment to the scalp.
24) Madhura:
Madhura, meaning sweet, is one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. Oils and herbs with Madhura Rasa, such as Yashti Churna, are used to soothe and nourish the scalp, making them effective in treating conditions like Darunaka by providing hydration and reducing irritation.
25) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya, meaning astringent, is one of the tastes in Ayurveda. Oils and treatments with Kashaya Rasa help to reduce inflammation, heal wounds, and balance Kapha, making them useful in the management of scalp conditions like Darunaka.
26) Tree:
Tree oils, such as tea tree oil, are used in Ayurvedic treatments for their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil is particularly effective against dandruff, helping to reduce fungal growth and soothe scalp irritation.
27) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine that employs various natural remedies, including Shiroabhyanga with medicated oils, to treat scalp conditions like Darunaka. It emphasizes balancing Doshas and using principles like Rasa and Guna in treatments.
28) Haritaki:
Haritaki is a herb used in Ayurvedic treatments due to its Tridoshahara properties. It's a component of the Darunakaroganashaka Arka formulation, which is used to treat Darunaka. Haritaki helps reduce dryness and flaking of the scalp by balancing Doshas.
29) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to purification therapies in Ayurveda. In treating Darunaka, Shodhana may involve procedures like Virechana (purgation) followed by Shamana (pacification) to cleanse the body of toxins and balance Doshas, leading to better scalp health.
30) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to symptoms in Ayurvedic medicine. In Darunaka, Lakshanas include itching, dryness, and flaking of the scalp. Treatments aim to address these Lakshanas by using oils and herbs that provide nourishment, reduce inflammation, and balance Doshas.
31) Vatahara (Vata-ahara):
Vatahara means pacifying Vata Dosha. Oils and treatments with Vatahara properties, such as sesame oil, are effective in treating Darunaka by providing moisture and reducing dryness, thus balancing the Vata Dosha and improving scalp health.
32) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda often includes herbal formulations and oils for topical application. In treating Darunaka, medicines like Triphaladi Taila and Yashti Churna in coconut oil are used to provide relief from symptoms and improve scalp health.
33) Karanja (Karamja):
Karanja oil is used in Ayurvedic treatments for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps balance Vata and Kapha Doshas, making it effective in managing conditions like Darunaka by reducing itching and promoting scalp health.
34) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana refers to pacification therapies in Ayurveda. After Shodhana (purification), Shamana treatments involve using specific medicated oils and herbs to balance Doshas and manage symptoms of conditions like Darunaka, improving overall scalp health.
35) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means dryness. In Darunaka, Ruksha is a common symptom that is managed by using Snigdha (unctuous) oils and treatments. The goal is to restore moisture to the scalp and prevent further dryness and scaling.
36) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the bodily tissues in Ayurveda. Oils used in Shiroabhyanga are believed to penetrate and nourish the Dhatus, helping to balance Doshas and improve scalp and hair health, thereby aiding in the treatment of conditions like Darunaka.
37) Guru:
Guru means heavy or dense, a quality in Ayurveda. Oils with Guru Guna are used to provide deep nourishment and strength to the scalp and hair, helping to manage conditions like Darunaka by counteracting dryness and flaking.
38) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial properties are essential in treating scalp conditions like Darunaka. Oils and herbs with anti-bacterial activity help to reduce microbial presence on the scalp, preventing infections and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
39) Kshudraroga (Kshudra-roga, Ksudraroga):
Kshudraroga refers to minor diseases in Ayurveda. Darunaka is classified as a Kshudraroga, indicating it has a simple etiology and symptoms. Treatments often involve topical applications of medicated oils to manage these minor yet bothersome issues.
40) Kantakari (Kamtakari):
Kantakari is an herb used in Ayurvedic formulations for its Vatahara and Kaphahara properties. It is included in Kantakari Siddha Taila, which is used in Shiroabhyanga to treat scalp conditions like Darunaka by reducing dryness and inflammation.
41) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a state in India where significant research and practice in Ayurveda, including treatments for Darunaka, are conducted. Authors and institutions in Karnataka contribute extensively to Ayurvedic literature and clinical studies.
42) Katurasa (Katu-rasa):
Katu-rasa, or pungent taste, is used in Ayurveda to balance Kapha and Vata Doshas. Oils with Katu-rasa are effective in treating Darunaka by reducing scalp oiliness and flakiness, thereby improving overall scalp health.
43) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are bioactive compounds found in some Ayurvedic herbs and oils used for treating Darunaka. They possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in reducing scalp irritation and promoting healing.
44) Turmeric:
Turmeric is used in Ayurvedic treatments for its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with coconut oil, turmeric helps treat symptoms of dandruff like itching and flaking by reducing fungal presence and soothing the scalp.
45) Nimba:
Nimba, or neem, is used in Ayurveda for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Neem oil or Nimba Taila is effective in treating Darunaka by reducing itching and microbial activity on the scalp, thus improving scalp health.
46) Agni:
Agni refers to the digestive fire in Ayurveda and also represents transformation at various levels. Proper functioning of Agni ensures effective metabolism and assimilation of nutrients, which is crucial for maintaining scalp and hair health.
47) Arka:
[see source text or glossary: Arka]
48) Mala:
Mala refers to waste products in the body in Ayurvedic medicine. Accumulation of Mala can lead to scalp conditions like Darunaka. Ayurvedic treatments aim to eliminate these waste products and restore balance to promote healthy scalp and hair.
49) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor plant, has leaves that are used for their antidandruff properties in Ayurvedic treatments. The bioactive compounds in Ricinus communis help reduce dandruff and support overall scalp health.
50) Sparshanendriya (Sparsanendriya, Sparshana-indriya):
Sparshanendriya is the tactile sensory organ located in the skin. In Ayurveda, therapies like Abhyanga improve the function of Sparshanendriya by enhancing skin health and sensory perception, which is beneficial in treating conditions like Darunaka.
51) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants. In Ayurvedic treatments, the phytochemicals present in herbs and oils contribute to their medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which are beneficial in treating scalp conditions like Darunaka.
52) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kaphadosha refers to the Kapha Dosha, one of the three primary energies in Ayurveda. An imbalance of Kapha can lead to scalp conditions like Darunaka. Ayurvedic treatments focus on reducing excess Kapha to restore scalp health.
53) Snigdhata:
Snigdhata means unctuousness or oiliness in Ayurveda. Oils with Snigdhata are used in Shiroabhyanga to treat Darunaka by providing necessary moisture, reducing dryness, and balancing Vata and Kapha Doshas on the scalp.
54) Tiktarasa:
Tiktarasa refers to the bitter taste, which is used in Ayurvedic treatments to balance Kapha and Pitta Doshas. Bitterness helps to reduce inflammation and microbial presence on the scalp, making it useful in the treatment of Darunaka.
55) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation in Ayurveda refers to the disturbance or imbalance of Doshas. Scalp conditions like Darunaka result from the vitiation of Vata and Kapha Doshas. Treatments aim to restore balance through the application of specific oils and therapies.
56) Snehana:
Snehana is the application of oil in Ayurvedic therapies. It helps to nourish and lubricate the scalp and skin, thereby alleviating symptoms of conditions like Darunaka by reducing dryness and providing essential nutrients.
57) Snigdha:
Snigdha means unctuous or oily. Oils with Snigdha Guna are used in Ayurvedic treatments like Shiroabhyanga for Darunaka because they help to moisturize and nourish the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness.
58) Tikshna (Tiksna):
[see source text or glossary: Tikshna]
59) Malati:
Malati is one of the herbs used in Ayurvedic oils like Malatyadi Taila, which are applied to the scalp for treating Darunaka. It has anti-inflammatory and Dosha-balancing properties, contributing to the overall health of the scalp.
60) Keshya (Kesya):
Keshya refers to herbs and treatments that promote hair health in Ayurveda. Various oils and herbs, such as those used in Shiroabhyanga, have Keshya properties, helping to treat conditions like Darunaka by nourishing the scalp and improving hair quality.
61) Kriya:
Kriya refers to the practice or action in Ayurveda, such as the application of treatment procedures like Shiroabhyanga. These actions are intended to balance Doshas and improve the overall health of the scalp and hair.
62) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda refers to therapeutic actions or treatments. Procedures like Shamana and Shodhana Karma are employed to treat scalp conditions like Darunaka by balancing Doshas and purifying the system.
63) Krimi (Krmi):
[see source text or glossary: Krimi]
64) Methi:
Methi, or fenugreek seeds, are used in Ayurvedic treatments for their antidandruff properties. They help reduce the growth of dandruff-causing fungi, improving scalp health and easing symptoms like itching and flaking.
65) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Shiro refers to the head. Treatments like Shiroabhyanga (head massage) are focused on the Shiro area to alleviate conditions like Darunaka by applying medicated oils to the scalp, which nourish and balance the Doshas.
66) Roga:
Roga means disease in Ayurveda. Conditions like Darunaka are classified as Rogas, and specific treatments involving medicinal oils and therapies are designed to manage these diseases and restore scalp health.
67) Yoga:
Yoga, often combined with Ayurvedic treatments, helps reduce stress, which is a contributing factor to scalp conditions like Darunaka. Practicing Yoga along with therapies like Shiroabhyanga can enhance the overall treatment efficacy.
68) Vayu:
[see source text or glossary: Vayu]
69) Dahaprashamana (Dahaprasamana, Daha-prashamana):
[see source text or glossary: Dahaprashamana]
70) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
[see source text or glossary: Shalakyatantra]
71) Bhrajakapitta (Bhrajaka-pitta):
Bhrajakapitta refers to the Pitta Dosha localized in the skin, responsible for skin color and other functions. Treatments in Ayurveda aim to balance Bhrajakapitta to maintain healthy skin and treat conditions like Darunaka.
72) Tridoshahara (Tridosahara, Tridosha-hara):
Tridoshahara means balancing all three Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Herbs like Haritaki are used for their Tridoshahara properties to treat scalp conditions like Darunaka by restoring overall Dosha balance.
73) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
[see source text or glossary: Madhura-rasa]
74) Erandapatra (Eranda-patra):
Eranda-patra refers to the leaves of Ricinus communis (castor plant). These leaves have antidandruff properties and are used in Ayurvedic treatments to manage scalp conditions like Darunaka by reducing fungal growth and soothing irritation.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 146]
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