Herb
Treatment Support
bitter
Application
tea as a wash
Lice, head
Christopher Hobbs:
“Head lice are small, wingless, parasitic insects that live in hair, biting and sucking blood for nourishment. Head lice commonly occur in children and are highly contagious. Infestations are often accompanied by redness and itching. Diagnosis is simple when the small gray, round eggs are seen attached to the base of the hair follicle. Use a hand lens to help make them visible.”
Etiologic and Contributing Factors for Head Lice:
- Etiology: Head lice are caused by an infestation of Pediculus humanus capitis, tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood.
- Transmission: Lice spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact, common among children in schools or playgroups. Sharing personal items (e.g., hats, brushes, headphones) can also transmit lice.
- Other Factors: Overcrowded living conditions, close-contact activities, and inadequate personal hygiene increase the risk of infestation.
Signs to Look for When Seeking Professional Help:
- Persistent Infestation: If lice or nits (eggs) persist after several home treatments.
- Severe Scalp Irritation: Redness, swelling, or infection due to scratching.
- Uncertainty of Diagnosis: If you’re unsure whether it’s lice or another scalp condition like dandruff.
- Widespread Infestation: If multiple family members or contacts are affected, consult a healthcare provider for coordinated treatment.
Treatment Plan for Lice, head
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
- Mild Infestation: For small numbers of lice and no secondary infection, herbal remedies may suffice.
- Common Herbal Remedies:
- Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil: Known for its insecticidal properties, dilute with carrier oil and apply to the scalp.
- Neem (Azadirachta indica) Oil: Acts as an antiparasitic treatment.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)Â Oil: May soothe itching and help repel lice.
- Precautions: Always test for allergic reactions before applying any herb. Avoid using on broken or infected skin.
Key Reminder:
Home remedies may not always be as effective as OTC treatments. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a week of herbal treatment, consult a healthcare professional.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Herbal treatment can sometimes cure the condition, though skillful and persistent application is often necessary. This treatment may be preferable to 1% lindane cream (Quell) which can have side effects. Malathion should be avoided. For severe cases, a 1% pyrethrin cream rinse is now available. Make an herbal rinse by diluting apple cider vinegar 50-50 with water, adding 1 ounce of quassia (Quassia amara), centaury (Centaurium erythraea), and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) tincture, essential oil, or strong tea to 10 ounces of water and rinse the scalp several times daily. Make sure to keep linens, clothes, combs, and other articles sterilized, and avoid contact with others that may be infected.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited and supplemented by Christopher Hobbs PhD
Herbal Remedies for Lice, head
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
antiparasitic
Application
tea as a wash
Herb
Treatment Support
hair tonic
Application
tea, tincture, or essential oil as a wash
Related Lice, head conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
No additional ailments found.
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
