Essential oils as Potential Source of Anti-dandruff Agents: A Review

Abstract

Background: Dandruff is a frequently occurring scalp problem that causes significant discomfort to approximately 50% population at some stage of life, especially post-puberty and pre-adult age. Objective: This review aims to summarize the recent findings regarding the anti-fungal properties of herbal essential oils against pathogens involved in dandruff prognosis. Methods: A literature search of studies published between 2000 and 2020 was conducted over databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science direct. Literature was explored using the guidelines given in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Results: Dandruff, characterized by clinical symptoms of dryness, pruritis, scaly, and flaky scalp, is considered a pri-mary manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis. Amongst various etiological and pathophysiological factors, a significant role of yeasts, primarily species of Malassezia, Candida, has been strongly correlated with dandruff. At the same time, incidences of M. furfur, M. restricta, and M. globosa are high compared to others. Due to relapse of symptoms with the withdrawal of conventional anti-dandruff products. Essential oils of herbal origin, such as tea tree oil, lime oil, rose-mary oil, have gained global importance in dermatology. These oils are rich in secondary aromatic metabolites, espe-cially terpenes and phenolic components that impart substantial antimicrobial properties and resisting biofilm produc-tion. Conclusion: Based on the available information, we can conclude that essential oils have tremendous potential to be developed as anti-dandruff products; however, further studies are warranted to establish their efficacy in dandruff cures.