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Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Sheetal Chavan Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00069 |ISSN :2584-2757
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Abstract
Dandruff (Darunak Vyadhi) is one of the most prevalent scalp disorders, primarily caused by the vitiation
of Vata and Kapha doshas, and is characterized by itching, flaking, and dryness of the scalp. In modern
dermatology, it is associated with Malassezia yeast overgrowth and excess sebum production. Increasing
pollution, stress, and chemical-based cosmetic use have aggravated scalp and hair problems in the present
era. To address these issues, an Ayurvedic herbal anti-dandruff hair mask was formulated and evaluated for
its efficacy.The herbal mask, containing Amla, Neem, Jatamansi, Bramhi, Bhringraj, Hibiscus, Tulsi,
Nagarmotha ,Yashimadhu exhibited antifungal, antibacterial, and scalp-nourishing properties.It was
observed that the herbal formulation effectively controlled dandruff, improved scalp hygiene, reduced
flakiness, and strengthened hair roots. Thus, the study concludes that the herbal anti-dandruff hair mask is a
safe, natural, and affordable Ayurvedic alternative to chemical-based hair products, promoting healthy,
dandruff-free, and well-nourished hair.
Keywords – Darunak Vyadhi, Herbal Hair Mask, Scalp Health
P
ISSN No. : 2584-2757
Volume : 03
Issue : 01
DOI
: 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 7 3 5 8 745
Reg. No. : MAHA-703/16(NAG)
Year of Establishment – 2016
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH
Corresponding author: Dr. Sheetal Chavan
Article Info: Published on : 15/10/2025
Impact Factor : 1.013
An open labelled, two armed ,prospective, randomized controlled Phase II,
clinical study to evaluate efficacy of Herbal Anti-Dandruff Hair Mask in
Darunak Vyadhi (Dandruff)
Dr.Chavan Sheetal Suryakant
1
,Dr.Umesh Yeolekar
2
,Dr.Pankaj Dixit
3
,Dr. Bhalerao Anuradha
4
,
Mr.Shewale Gaurav Kumar
5
1
Associate Professor Dept. of Rognidan,A.S.S. Ayurved Mahavidyalaya ,Nashik 422003
2
Professor & HOD Dept. of Shalakyatantra ,Matoshri Aarabai Darade Ayurved College Babhulgaon Yeola Nashik.
3
Professor Dept of Shalyatantra , Ayurved Seva Sangh. Ayurved Mahavidyalaya,Nashik 422003
4
Assistant Professor Dept. of Rognidan, A.S.S. Ayurved Mahavidyalaya ,Nashik 422003
5
BAMS, A.S.S. Ayurved Mahavidyalaya,Nashik 422003
Cite this article as: - Dr. Sheetal Chavan (2025) ; An open labelled, two armed ,prospective, randomized controlled Phase II,
clinical study to evaluate efficacy of Herbal Anti-Dandruff Hair Mask in Darunak Vyadhi (Dandruff);Inter .J. Dignostics and
Research 3 (1) 22-27 , DOI : 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 7 3 5 8 745
G
A
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Issue : 01
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 03
Copyright @ : - Dr.Sheetal Chavan Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00069 |ISSN :2584-2757
23
Introduction :
Dandruff, known in Ayurveda as Darunak Vyadhi,
is a common scalp disorder that arises due to the
vitiation of Vata and Kapha doshas. It is
characterized by itching, flaking of the scalp,
irritation, and dryness. In modern dermatological
terms, dandruff is associated with excessive
shedding of dead scalp cells caused by Malassezia
yeast overgrowth, seborrheic dermatitis, or excess
sebum production. This condition not only causes
physical discomfort such as itching and scaling but
also leads to psychological effects like
embarrassment and reduced confidence,
particularly in young adults. Continuous dandruff
can further result in hair fall, rough texture of hair,
and weak hair roots, ultimately affecting the overall
health and appearance of the hair.
Current Hair and Scalp Problems : In the present
era, due to changing lifestyle habits and increased
environmental stress, hair-related issues have
become very common. Some of the most prevalent
problems include:
1. Dandruff and Dry Scalp – Caused by fungal
infection, pollution, or excessive use of
chemical-based products.
2. Hair Fall and Thinning – Resulting from stress,
nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance,
and frequent hair styling.
3. Premature Greying – Linked to oxidative stress
and deficiency of essential minerals.
4. Oily Scalp and Clogged Pores – Due to
excessive sebum secretion and dirt
accumulation.
5. Split Ends and Rough Hair – Because of
frequent heat exposure, lack of nourishment, and
improper hair care.
These problems have increased due to urban
pollution, irregular diets, mental stress, and over-
dependence on chemical-based product.
Considering the limitations and side effects of
chemical-based hair products, there is a growing
interest in Ayurvedic and herbal alternatives. The
present study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of
a herbal anti-dandruff hair mask, formulated using
natural ingredients with antifungal, antibacterial,
and scalp-nourishing properties.
This herbal hair mask aims to: Control dandruff and
scalp flaking, Reduce hair fall and improve hair
strength, Maintain scalp pH and prevent dryness or
oiliness, Promote overall scalp and hair health.
Thus, the study emphasizes safe, natural, and
holistic management of dandruff (Darunak Vyadhi)
using Ayurvedic principles and herbal
formulations, aligning with modern cosmetology
and trichology needs.
Aim And Objectives:
1. Primary Objective(Aim): The primary aim
of this study is to assess the effectiveness of
a herbal hair mask incontrolling dandruff
and providing a healthy, itch-free scalp with
nourished hair.
2. Secondary Objective: To assess its role in
nourishing hair and preventing premature
greying.
Hypothesis :
The herbal hair mask is effective in removing
dandruff and reducing hair fall.
It nourishes the hair and helps prevent premature
greying.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 03
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Materials and Methods :
Study Design :
This study was designed as an open-labeled,
prospective, randomized Phase 2 clinical study. A
total of 60 patients suffering from hair problems
were included in the study. They were instructed to
apply the herbal hair mask for a period of 60 days.
Inclusion Criteria :
1. Participants aged between 18 and 60 years.
2. Both male and female participants.
3. Individuals from any economic background.
4. Presence of white hair.
5. Participants with normal hemoglobin levels.
Exclusion Criteria :
1. Individuals suffering from life-threatening
diseases or disorders.
2. Those with allergies to the ingredients used
in the hair mask.
3. Pregnant women.
Study Groups :
Group A: Participants applied the herbal
hair mask.- for 30 patients
Group B: Participants applied curd to their
hair (as a comparative treatment).-30
patients
Parameters Assessed :
1. Presence of skin flakes on the scalp, hair,
eyebrows, beard, mustache, or shoulders.
2. Itchy scalp.
3. Scaly, crusty scalp, especially in infants
with cradle cap.
Herbal Ingredients Used :
The herbal hair mask contained a combination of
Ayurvedic herbs known for their scalp-nourishing
and anti-dandruff properties. These included:
1. Amla (Emblica officinalis) – Strengthens
hair follicles and reduces dandruff.
[1]
2. Neem (Azadirachta indica) – Possesses
antifungal and antibacterial properties.
[2]
3. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) – Promotes hair
growth and prevents premature greying.
4. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) – Reduces scalp
infections and irritation.
[3]
5. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) –
Strengthens roots and reduces hair fall.
6. Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus) – Helps in
scalp detoxification.
[4]
7. Bramhi-(Bacopa monnieri)- improving
blood circulation to scalp,prevent dandruff.
8. Jatamansi-(Nardostachys Jatamansi)-treat
dandruff due to its Antimicrobial Properties.
[5]
The herbal mask was applied along with curd for 1
hour twice in week which serves as a natural
conditioner.
Results:
The study analyzed three key scalp conditions:
Dandruff, Scaly Scalp, and Crusty Scalp. The
effectiveness of the herbal hair mask was compared
to the use of curd alone as a treatment.
1.Dandruff Reduction :
Patients were graded based on dandruff severity:
Normal (0), Mild (1), Moderate (2), and Excessive
(3).The herbal hair mask group showed better
improvement than the curd-only group.
Normal scalp: 19 patients in the herbal
group vs. 3 in the curd group.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 03
Copyright @ : - Dr.Sheetal Chavan Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00069 |ISSN :2584-2757
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Mild dandruff: 3in the herbal group vs. 5 in
the curd group.
Moderate dandruff: 8 in the curd group vs. 4
in the herbal group.
Excessive dandruff: 14 in the curd group vs.
4s in the herbal group.
Statistical analysis (Chi-square test, p-value =
0.001266, p < 0.05) confirmed significant
effectiveness of the herbal mask in reducing
dandruff.
Scalp
condition
Severity
Herbal
group
(no.of
patients)
Curd group
(no.of
pateints)
Dandruff
reduction
Normal
19
3
Mild
3
5
Moderate
4
8
Excessive
4
14
Graph
2.Reduction in Scaly Scalp :
The herbal hair mask group showed significant
reduction in scalp scaling.
Normal scalp: 18 patients in the herbal
group vs. 7 in the curd group.
Mild scaling: 2 in the herbal group vs. 7 in
the curd group.
Moderate scaling: 11 in the curd group vs. 6
in the herbal group.
Excessive scaling: 4 in the herbal group vs.
5 in the curd group
Statistical analysis (Chi-square test, p-value =
0.007732, p < 0.05) confirmed a significant
reduction in scalp scaling.
Scalp
condition
Severity
Herbal
group
(no.of
patients)
Curd group
(no.of
pateints)
Scaly
Scalp
Reduction
Normal
18
7
Mild
2
7
Moderate
6
11
Excessive
4
5
Graph
3.Crusty Scalp Reduction :
Improvement was also observed in crust formation
on the scalp.
Normal scalp: 20 patients in the herbal
group vs. 9 in the curd group.
Mild crusting: 2 in the herbal group vs. 8 in
the curd group.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
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Moderate crusting: 1 in the herbal group vs.
3 in the curd group.
Excessive crusting: 7 in the herbal group vs.
10 in the curd group.
Statistical analysis (Chi-square test, p-value =
0.019789, p < 0.05) confirmed a significant
reduction in crusty scalp issues.
Scalp
condition
Severity
Herbal
group
(no.of
patients)
Curd group
(no.of
pateints)
Crusty
Scalp
reduction
Normal
20
9
Mild
2
8
Moderate
1
3
Excessive
7
10
Graph
Discussion:
The study demonstrates that the Herbal Anti-
Dandruff Hair Mask is significantly more effective
than curd alone in treating dandruff and associated
scalp conditions. The following key points
highlight the findings:
1. Effectiveness in Controlling Dandruff:
The herbal mask effectively reduces dandruff, with
19 out of 30 patients achieving a normal scalp after
treatment.
Compared to curd, which left 3 patients with
excessive dandruff and 8 with moderate dandruff,
the herbal formulation showed strong antifungal
and scalp-soothing properties.
2. Reduction of Scaly Scalp:
The mask successfully improves scalp texture by
reducing flakiness and dryness.
Ingredients such as Amla, Neem, Hibiscus are
known for their antifungal and moisturizing
properties, contributing to healthier scalp
conditions.
3. Healing of Crusty Scalp:
The study indicates that the herbal mask
significantly helps in removing crusty deposits
from the scalp, improving scalp hygiene.
The anti-inflammatory action of herbs like
Bhringraj, Brahmi, and Jatamansi supports scalp
healing and prevents recurrent dandruff.
4. Economic and Natural Alternative:
The herbal hair mask is cheaper (costing only ₹60
per month) compared to chemical-based market
products.
It is free from harmful chemicals and offers a
natural alternative for individuals seeking organic
hair care solutions.
Conclusion:
1. Effectiveness:
Proves to be a highly effective natural formulation
for controlling dandruff (Darunak Vyadhi) and
related scalp disorders.
2. Natural & Safe:
Made from herbal ingredients, it offers a chemical-
free, safe, and holistic approach to scalp and hair
care.
Issue : 01
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 03
Copyright @ : - Dr.Sheetal Chavan Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00069 |ISSN :2584-2757
27
3. Affordable:
Provides a cost-effective option compared to
commercially available synthetic hair products and
medicated shampoos.
4. Better Results than Curd:
Demonstrated superior outcomes compared to curd
treatment, particularly in:Reducing dandruff
flakes,Decreasing scaly scalp,Healing crusty scalp
conditions
5. Hair and Scalp Health:
Helps maintain scalp cleanliness, improves hair
texture, and strengthens hair roots.
6. Alternative to Synthetic Products:
Can serve as a potential herbal substitute for
synthetic anti-dandruff shampoos and chemical
formulations.
7. Overall Outcome:
Ensures sustained dandruff control, promotes
healthy scalp balance, and supports strong, lustrous
hair growth.
References:
1.Charaka Samhita – Chikitsa Sthana 1/3/29,
Sushruta Samhita – Sutra Sthana 38/25
2.Charaka Samhita – Sutra Sthana 27/246,
Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Haritakyadi Varga 222
3.Charaka Samhita – Sutra Sthana 27/245, Sushruta
Samhita – Sutra Sthana 38/10
4.Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Karpuradi Varga 34
5.Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Guduchyadi Varga
191, Charaka Samhita – Sutra Sthana 27
Declaration :
Conflict of Interest : None
ISSN: 2584-2757
DOI : 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 7 3 5 8 745
Dr.
Sheetal Chavan
Inter. J.Digno. and Research
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