Evidence supporting the use of: Ricinoleic acid
For the health condition: Dandruff

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Synopsis

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

Ricinoleic acid, the primary fatty acid component of castor oil, has been traditionally used as a remedy for various scalp conditions, including dandruff. The use of castor oil for scalp care dates back centuries in folk medicine across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. Proponents claim that its moisturizing properties help reduce the dryness and flakiness associated with dandruff. Ricinoleic acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro, which could theoretically contribute to scalp health. However, there is minimal direct scientific research specifically examining ricinoleic acid or castor oil for dandruff treatment. Most available evidence is anecdotal or based on traditional practices rather than rigorous clinical trials. Some studies suggest that the moisturizing effect of oils like castor oil may help relieve dryness, but there is no strong evidence that ricinoleic acid addresses the primary fungal causes of dandruff, such as Malassezia species. Overall, its use for dandruff is primarily supported by tradition with limited scientific validation.

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