Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in East Asia and Europe. Its use in supporting or treating dandruff primarily stems from folk remedies rather than robust scientific evidence. Traditionally, mugwort leaves have been used in hair washes and scalp treatments due to their reputed antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. It was believed that mugwort could help relieve itching, reduce scalp irritation, and promote a healthier scalp environment, which may indirectly help with dandruff symptoms. This practice is documented in traditional herbal texts and persists in some herbal hair care products and homemade rinses.

However, scientific studies specifically examining mugwort’s efficacy against dandruff or its causative agent, Malassezia yeast, are extremely limited. Some general studies indicate that mugwort extracts possess mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, but these are not directly tied to dandruff management in controlled clinical settings. Thus, while it is justified by tradition to use mugwort for dandruff, current scientific validation is lacking, resulting in a low evidence rating.

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