Background: Darunaka, commonly correlated with dandruff in modern dermatology, is a prevalent scalp disorder characterized by itching, dryness and flaking of the scalp. While modern medicine attributes dandruff primarily to fungal proliferation and scalp barrier dysfunction, Ayurveda describes Darunaka as a Vata-Kapha predominant Shudra Roga localized in the scalp region. Classical Ayurvedic toxicology (Agada Tantra) interprets chronic dermatological disorders as manifestations of Dooshi Visha (latent toxins) accumulated in tissues. Objective: This review aims to explore the Ayurvedic pathogenesis of Darunaka and evaluate the therapeutic role of Chitrakaadya Tailam, a classical herbal oil formulation used in the management of scalp disorders. Methods: Classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya were reviewed alongside modern dermatological literature regarding dandruff pathogenesis. Pharmacological properties of the ingredients in Chitrakaadya Tailam were analyzed using published scientific studies. Results: Darunaka arises primarily due to Vata-induced dryness and Kapha-induced itching and scaling of the scalp. Chitrakaadya Tailam contains herbs with antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound-healing properties, which collectively address microbial growth, scalp inflammation and tissue damage. Conclusion: Chitrakaadya Tailam demonstrates a multi-target therapeutic mechanism that aligns with both Ayurvedic and modern dermatological understanding of dandruff. The formulation represents a promising integrative therapy for long-term scalp health.
Kaur et al. (Wed,) studied this question.