Alternative Treatments for Head Lice

Head lice are a common problem, especially in school-age children who tend to share hats and hairbrushes. Families can also pass head lice to each other. A single head louse can live up to 30 days on its host and during that time, the female can lay over 100 eggs or nits. Consequently, the sooner head lice are treated, the better. There are over-the-counter pesticides available to combat lice, but several plant remedies may be helpful.

Neem (Azadiracta Indica)

• Neem is a large tree that is native to India. Its leaves and seeds contain compounds that are believed to deter pests, including lice. It's currently marketed in the U.S. as an ingredient in non-toxic pesticides for organic farmers. Neem is often coupled with the herb turmeric to get rid of lice.

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa)

• Turmeric is believed to be good at fighting pests. Herbal botanist James A. Duke cites a study in which a paste made of 4 parts crushed neem leaves to 1 part powdered tumeric root was rubbed onto affected body areas of people who had lice, left to dry and rinsed off. Additionally, those people boiled their clothes and bedding every day to prevent re-infestation of the body. Within 3 to15 days, 98 percent of the people in the study were cured of lice.

Sweet flag (Acorus Calamus)

• Sweet flag is a rush-like plant that grows in wetlands around the world. Sweet flag, also called calamus, is believed to have lice-killing properties. Traditionally, powdered sweet flag root is made into a poultice or paste and rubbed onto the affected areas to kill lice. Sweet flag and products made of sweet flag were banned in the U.S. in 1968 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration because it has hallucinatory effects if taken in large doses. Other countries still allow its growth and use.

Teatree (Melaleuca, Various Species)

• Teatree essential oil is believed to be helpful against parasites. Herbalist Non Shaw suggests adding 5 to 10 drops of teatree oil to rinsing water after washing hair. Never take essential oils internally; they are poisonous. If skin irritation develops, discontinue treatment.

Star Anise (Illicium Verum)

• Dr. Duke suggests that star anise may be useful against scabies, lice and bedbugs. He suggests dabbing a little oil of star anise on affected areas to get rid of pests.

Warning

• The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified health care provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions before making therapeutic decisions.