Evidence supporting the use of: Birch (unspecified)
For the health condition: Dandruff
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Birch (commonly Betula species) has traditionally been used in folk medicine across Europe and parts of Asia for a variety of skin and scalp conditions, including dandruff. Historical uses typically involve birch leaf or bark infusions, extracts, or oils, which are applied to the scalp as rinses or incorporated into hair tonics. The rationale for these uses is largely based on birch's mild astringent and purported anti-inflammatory properties, which were believed to help soothe the scalp and reduce flakiness associated with dandruff. Some older herbal texts and ethnobotanical sources mention birch as a remedy for scalp dryness and irritation. However, there is little to no robust scientific evidence from clinical trials to support the efficacy of birch in treating dandruff specifically. While some in vitro studies have identified mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in birch extracts, these findings have not been directly linked to the treatment of dandruff, which is often associated with the yeast Malassezia. Therefore, while birch continues to be found in some traditional and natural hair care products, its use for dandruff remains primarily justified by tradition rather than science, and the overall evidence supporting its effectiveness is weak.
Other ingredients used for Dandruff
aloe veracarrot
clove
turmeric
garlic bulb
ginger
green tea
mustard seed
spruce
oregano
pomegranate
thyme
vitamin D
zinc
mugwort
neem tree
commiphora
siler root
zanthoxylum
birch
wintergreen
menthol oil
melaleuca alternifolia
Ash
Apple Cider Vinegar
Alpha-terpineol
Ajuga
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Asteracea
Argan nut oil
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Bitter Grass
Bee products
Borneol
Coconut
coconut oil
Cajuput
Chinese Raisintree
Chrysophanics
Eclipta
Mustard
Other health conditions supported by Birch (unspecified)
AbrasionsAbscesses
Acne
Arthritis
Athlete's Foot
Backache
Bladder Infection
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cellulite
Cuts
Dandruff
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Eczema
Edema
Fever
Fungal Infections
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Gout
Hair Care (general)
Hangover
Headache (general)
Headache (tension)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Herpes
Impetigo
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Insect Repellant
Itching
Jaundice (adults)
Kidney Infection
Kidney Stones
Liver Detoxification
Pain (general remedies for)
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Skin Care (general)
Ulcers
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores