Homeopathic Remedies for Scabies

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by microscopic mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites burrow under your skin and the females lay eggs and leave feces behind in the tiny tunnels they channel. The result is typically an itchy allergic reaction, along with a breakout of blisters or bumps. Prescription medication treatments are available, but children, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with compromised immune systems may not be able to take them. Homeopathic remedies for scabies are a natural, safe option.

Tea Tree Oil

• Tea tree oil is one of the most versatile homeopathic remedies because it has not only healing antiseptic qualities but also anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties. This essential oil should not be consumed internally as it is toxic when ingested. It should be mixed with a carrier oil such as almond or olive oil before applying topically, as undiluted tea tree oil can burn your skin. Daily applications or even added to bathwater for up to two weeks can alleviate itching symptoms as well as kill the mites burrowing in your skin. You can also combine the tea tree oil with other homeopathic ingredients. For instance, creating a paste with tea tree oil, carrier oil and turmeric and spreading it all over the affected areas can be soothing. The tea tree oil helps kill the mites, while the turmeric works to control the itching and inflammation.

Neem Oil

• Organic farmers use neem oil as a safe, botanical pesticide, so it should work for you as a homeopathic remedy for scabies. Neem oil can be applied directly to the skin or even added to bath water. The mites resist conventional methods of treatment, but neem oil helps eradicate them as well as soothe inflammation, itching and redness. It even helps heal infection caused by scratching. You can create your own skin applications with neem oil or purchase neem oil lotions or creams -- both offer successful ways to treat scabies, usually within a few weeks.

Lavender Oil

• Lavender oil has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties and it is gentle enough for straight application to the skin areas affected by scabies. This essential oil not only helps heal secondary infections brought on by scratching, it also helps kill the mites and their eggs as well. It may take up to two weeks of skin applications twice a day.

Prevent the Spread of Scabies

• Part of treatment is preventing the spread and reinfection of scabies. While homeopathic remedies will help you feel better, they will not be totally effective if you do not eradicate the mites from your living environment. You could easily become reinfected and others in your family could also contract this skin condition. Clean all bed linens, towels and other personal items you may share with others by washing them in hot water and detergent. Vacuum the curtains, mattresses and other furniture and then throw away the vacuum cleaner bag in a sealed plastic garbage bag. If possible, rent a steam cleaner to clean your carpeting, curtains and mattresses to get rid of mites. For several weeks while you are treating your scabies with your homeopathic remedy of choice, change the bedding and towels each day and wash them to prevent the spread and reinfection of scabies.