Dandruff is a symptom of a local inflammatory reaction within the scalp. The negative effects of dandruff are (except for the aesthetic): general hair weakning, hair follicle reduction, and consequently even increased hair loss. Its cause is excessive colonization of the skin by Malassezia yeasts. They are part of normal scalp microflora, but their uncontrolled development causes excessive decomposition of lipids secreted by the sebaceous glands of the skin.

The stinging sensation upon touching the fresh plant (unpleasant not only for humans, but also to other animals) is caused by histamine, serotonin, leukotrienes, acetylcholine and formic acid. These powerful self-defense agents are released from thin needles made of silica and calcium carbonate that break easily when touched.

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