by Sara Mcgrath

Created on: September 03, 2008

The simplest remedies are oftentimes the best. Coconut oil and olive oil both prevent, treat, and soothe an itchy scalp. They get to the source of the problem and treat it while moisturizing and providing soothing relief from the symptoms.

Both coconut and olive oil contain antifungal properties which treat the most common cause of itchy scalp-seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis, commonly called "dandruff," is believed to result from overgrowth of a fungus, or yeast.

Many chemical shampoos are available to treat dandruff, but their use is limited due to the harshness of the chemicals. Both coconut and olive oil provide gentle treatment which requires no warning or limitation on their use.

Treatment Instructions

1. Simply massage minimally processed, extra virgin coconut or extra virgin olive oil into the scalp.

2. Let the oil sit in the hair for 5 to 10 minutes, or as long as desired.

3. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. A gentle shampoo or baking soda paste (baking soda and water) can be used to remove excess oil from the hair.

Harsh shampoos are another common cause of itchy scalp. A course of baking soda mixed with water to form a paste will adequately cleanse hair and replace shampoo. This can be followed with a rinse of apple cider vinegar used to moisturize the hair.

In the case of seborrheic dermatitis, the oil may loosen oily scales from the scalp that can be removed from the hair with a comb.

About Coconut Oil

Coconuts have long been considered a medicinal food. Coconut oil contains antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It kills the yeasts that cause seborrheic dermatitis and ringworm (tinea capitis), two causes of itchy scalp.

Coconut oil used on the skin forms a barrier against infections, softens and moisturizes, promotes healthy hair and complexion, and provides protection against ultraviolet radiation damage from excess sun exposure.

About Olive Oil

Olive oil has been used for thousands of years on the skin. The ancient Greeks bathed in it and used it to moisturize dry skin. Olive oil contains antifungal and antiviral properties. Olive oil contains antioxidant compounds that prevent and repair damage from excess sun exposure.

Many shampoos and products created for the treatment of itchy scalp actually contain coconut or olive oil among their active ingredients. Both oils work on their own and may work better in their whole, minimally processed form. Choose extra virgin, expeller-pressed oils for maximum potency.

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