Scalp irritation fell 71% in four weeks.

−5.48 on a 16-point scale

context

What happens when a herbal remedy meets an irritated, flaking scalp? One clinic measured it over four weeks.

method

77 people with scalp seborrheic dermatitis used a topical Chinese-herbal preparation for four weeks (the most severe cases also took herbs by mouth).

finding

After four weeks, average symptom scores fell from 7.71 to 2.23 on a 16-point scale: a clear, meaningful easing of flaking and irritation.

What this study shows

A real drop in scalp symptoms with a topical traditional-Chinese-medicine preparation
Verified before/after scores: 7.71 down to 2.23 on a 16-point scale (mean drop 5.48, p<0.01)
A concrete example of an herbal topical easing flaking and irritation

What this study does not show

There was no placebo or comparison group, so the herbs can't take sole credit for the change
The moderate and severe cases also took oral medication, which blurs the topical result
Seborrheic dermatitis is chronic and relapsing: symptoms eased, they weren't cured

Everybody's different, so results vary, and none of this is medical advice. If a scalp or hair concern sticks around, please see a doctor or dermatologist.