5 Best Ayurvedic Home Remedies to Remove Dandruff Naturally

Dandruff is one of the most common scalp problems that affects both men and women. It causes white flakes, itchiness, and scalp irritation, often leading to hair fall if not treated in time. According to Ayurveda, dandruff is known as “Darunak”, which occurs due to an imbalance in the Vata and Kapha doshas. This imbalance leads to a dry or oily scalp, excess flaking, and itching. During winter, this condition often worsens as the cold air and low humidity make the scalp drier and more prone to flaking. Instead of using chemical-based shampoos that only give temporary relief, you can use simple home remedies made from natural kitchen ingredients that not only remove dandruff but also nourish your scalp for long-term results.

Here are the 5 most effective Ayurvedic home remedies to remove dandruff naturally and keep your hair healthy this winter.

5 Best Ayurvedic Home Remedies to Remove Dandruff Naturally in Winter

1. Fenugreek Seeds (Methi) — Natural Scalp Nourisher

In Ayurveda, Methi (Fenugreek) is valued for its Kaphavata Shamak properties, which help balance the scalp’s excess oiliness (Kapha) and dryness (Vata). Packed with protein, nicotinic acid, iron, and lecithin, it deeply nourishes hair roots and supports a healthy scalp environment. Traditionally used as a natural remedy for dandruff and hair conditioning, fenugreek offers cooling, moisturizing, and antimicrobial benefits. Its seeds work holistically to combat fungal infections, hydrate the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and restore the scalp’s natural oil balance—leaving hair soft, shiny, and naturally flake-free.

How to Use:

1. Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight.
2. In the morning, grind them into a smooth paste.
3. Apply the paste evenly to your scalp and hair roots.
4. Leave it on for 30–40 minutes, then rinse off with a mild shampoo.
5. You can also use the leftover methi water as a final hair rinse for added shine and softness.

Tip: For extra nourishment, mix a few drops of Lemon Juice or Curd into the paste. Use this hair mask once or twice a week to reduce dandruff, strengthen roots, and keep hair soft and shiny.

2. Yogurt (Curd) — Natural Scalp Conditioner

In Ayurveda, Dadhi (Yogurt) is cherished for its cooling and nourishing qualities that help balance Pitta dosha and maintain optimal scalp moisture. Rich in lactic acid, protein, calcium, and probiotics, it gently cleanses the scalp while deeply conditioning it. Yogurt works as a complete scalp-care ingredient—removing dandruff flakes, restoring natural hydration, and maintaining a healthy pH balance. Its beneficial bacteria support a balanced scalp microbiome, while its soothing and cooling nature calms irritation, leaving hair soft, shiny, and beautifully manageable.

How to Use:

1. Take half a cup of plain yogurt (without flavor or additives).
2. Apply it evenly to your scalp and hair roots.
3. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes to allow nutrients to penetrate.
4. Rinse thoroughly with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.

Tip: For extra antifungal effect, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into the yogurt. Use twice a week for soft, shiny, and dandruff-free hair.

3. Neem (Azadirachta indica) — Ayurvedic Antifungal Herb

In Ayurveda, Neem (Azadirachta indica) is revered as “Sarva Rog Nivarini” — meaning “the universal healer.” With its Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) tastes, it has strong Kaphahara (Kapha-reducing) and Pittahara (Pitta-reducing) properties that help purify the scalp and maintain its natural balance. Rich in bioactive compounds like Nimbin (anti-inflammatory & antifungal), Nimbidin (antibacterial & anti-inflammatory), and Azadirachtin (antifungal & antimicrobial), Neem effectively eliminates dandruff-causing fungus, reduces excess oil, and soothes irritation. Its powerful detoxifying nature promotes a clean, healthy, and infection-free scalp—supporting stronger hair roots and long-term scalp wellness.

How to Use:

1. Take a handful of fresh neem leaves and wash them thoroughly.
2. Boil them in about 2 cups of water for 10–15 minutes.
3. Let it cool, then strain the water.
4. Use this neem-infused water to rinse your scalp and hair after shampooing.
5. Alternatively, grind the boiled leaves into a paste and apply it to your scalp for 30 minutes before rinsing.

Tip: Use neem water or paste 2–3 times a week for effective dandruff control. For dry scalp, mix the neem paste with yogurt or aloe vera gel to maintain moisture while cleansing naturally.

4. Lemon Juice — (Natural Antifungal Cleanser)

In Ayurveda, Lemon (Nimbu) is regarded as a powerful Kaphahara Dravya — helping reduce excess Kapha dosha, the main cause of oily scalp and dandruff. Classified under Shodhana (cleansing) and Raktashodhak (blood-purifying) herbs, lemon’s Amla rasa (sour taste) and warming potency help control sebum secretion, remove buildup, and purify the scalp. Rich in citric acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants, it naturally combats dandruff-causing fungus (Malassezia globosa), cleanses dead skin and excess oil, and restores the scalp’s pH balance. With its antifungal, antibacterial, and astringent properties, lemon keeps the scalp fresh, itch-free, and healthy while promoting stronger, shinier hair.

How to Use:

1. Take 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (avoid bottled juice).
2. If your scalp is sensitive, dilute it with 1 tablespoon of water or coconut oil.
3. Apply evenly on your scalp using a cotton ball or fingertips.
4. Massage gently in circular motions for 3–5 minutes.
5. Leave it for 10 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
6. Wash your hair with a mild or herbal shampoo.

Tip: Use once or twice a week to control dandruff and excess oil while keeping your scalp fresh and balanced.

5. Onion Juice — Sulfur-Rich Scalp Detox

In Ayurveda, Onion (Palandu) is renowned for its Kandughna (anti-itching), Krumighna (antimicrobial), and Vata-Kapha balancing properties that help maintain a healthy scalp. Its warming nature purifies the scalp, boosts blood circulation, and strengthens hair follicles—making it a powerful natural tonic for dandruff and hair health. Rich in sulfur compounds, vitamin C, and antioxidants, onion deeply cleanses excess oil and dead skin, inhibits fungal and bacterial growth, and nourishes hair roots. Regular use helps soothe irritation, balance scalp moisture, and promote stronger, shinier, and dandruff-free hair.

How to Use:

1. Peel and grind one medium-sized onion, then strain to extract its juice.
2. Apply the juice directly to your scalp using a cotton ball or brush.
3. Gently massage for 5 minutes to enhance absorption.
4. Leave it for 20–30 minutes to allow nutrients to penetrate.
5. Rinse thoroughly with a mild or herbal shampoo to remove the smell.

Tip: Use onion juice once or twice a week. Mix it with aloe vera gel or coconut oil to reduce odor and keep your scalp moisturized.

Best Natural Ingredient Combinations for Dandruff Treatment

While each natural ingredient works well on its own, combining specific Ayurvedic remedies can enhance their effectiveness and deliver faster, longer-lasting dandruff relief. These powerful blends work in harmony to cleanse, nourish, and protect your scalp — helping you achieve a clean, balanced, and flake-free scalp naturally.

1. Lemon + Onion Juice: This powerful combo deeply cleanses the scalp and promotes healthy hair growth. Lemon removes dandruff and excess oil, while onion boosts circulation and strengthens roots — leaving your scalp clean and flake-free.
2. Neem + Yogurt: A soothing antifungal blend that purifies and cools the scalp. Neem fights dandruff-causing fungus, while yogurt hydrates and prevents dryness — keeping your scalp calm, soft, and itch-free.
3. Fenugreek + Aloe Vera: Perfect for dry or sensitive scalps, this combo nourishes and heals. Fenugreek prevents dandruff and strengthens roots, while aloe vera soothes irritation and restores natural shine.
4. Lemon + Yogurt: A gentle exfoliating mix that clears flakes without drying. Lemon cleanses the scalp, and yogurt balances moisture — refreshing your scalp and maintaining healthy softness.
5. Neem + Onion Juice: A detoxifying Ayurvedic duo that removes buildup and strengthens hair. Neem purifies the scalp, and onion boosts growth — ensuring a clean, dandruff-free, and stronger scalp naturally.

Conclusion

Dandruff may seem like a small problem, but it’s actually a sign that your scalp health is out of balance — whether due to dryness, excess oil, or fungal buildup. Instead of relying on harsh chemical shampoos, you can turn to simple, Ayurvedic-inspired home remedies that treat the root cause gently and effectively. Ingredients like lemon, onion, neem, fenugreek, and yogurt are not just easily available in your kitchen — they are time-tested solutions trusted for generations.

In winter, dandruff often gets worse due to dry air and reduced scalp moisture. These Ayurvedic remedies help combat that by keeping your scalp nourished, hydrated, and protected from seasonal dryness. With regular use, they remove dandruff, reduce itching, and restore your scalp’s natural balance — leaving your hair healthy, shiny, and flake-free, naturally.