Evidence supporting the use of: Balsam
For the health condition: Dandruff

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Balsam, particularly "Peruvian balsam" and "Tolu balsam," has a longstanding history in traditional medicine for treating various skin and scalp conditions, including dandruff. These balsams are aromatic resins obtained from certain trees and have been incorporated into folk remedies and herbal preparations for their supposed antiseptic and soothing properties. Historical records and ethnobotanical sources indicate that balsam was sometimes used as a component in ointments and shampoos to relieve scalp irritation and flaking associated with dandruff.

However, the evidence supporting balsam’s effectiveness for dandruff is mostly anecdotal and rooted in traditional practices rather than in modern clinical research. Some early pharmacopoeias and dermatology texts mention its inclusion in compound preparations for skin health, but there is a lack of well-designed, peer-reviewed studies demonstrating its efficacy for dandruff specifically. The potential mechanism, if any, is likely related to its mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help with scalp health in a general sense.

In summary, balsam’s use for dandruff is justified by traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. The overall level of evidence is low, and modern dandruff treatments rely more on agents with proven antifungal action such as zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide.

More about balsam
More about Dandruff

Products containing balsam

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