This article is reviewed by an expert
Are you suffering from head lice? If yes, we got your back!
Head lice infestation is a prevalent parasitic infection worldwide that can have significant health implications, particularly for school-aged children.
In this article, discover the best home remedies to remove lice naturally at home.
What Are Lice? (1)
Head lice are external parasites that reside on the bodies of humans and animals. They can manifest as head lice (the most prevalent form), body lice, or pubic lice.
Infestations of head lice pose a significant public health concern and jeopardise personal hygiene, especially among children between the ages of 5 and 13.
How to Remove Lice From Hair Permanently at Home
1. Wet Combing (2)
Wet combing is considered one of the best treatments for head lice. It involves systemic combing through wet hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove the individual lice.
2. Tea Tree Oil (3)
As per studies, tea tree oil has been found effective in eliminating lice during their adult and nymph stages. Additionally, using tea tree oil treatments can also minimise the hatching of lice eggs.
To use tea tree oil, mix a few drops of it with coconut oil and apply it to the scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes, and then comb through the hair with a lice comb.
3. Olive Oil (4)
Olive oil can help moisturise the scalp and soften and loosen the attachment of hair strands. This helps remove lice easily. Furthermore, studies suggest that olive oil can also block the openings through which lice breathe, further aiding the treatment.
To use olive oil, apply it generously to the hair and scalp and cover the head with a shower cap. Leave it on overnight and then comb through the hair with a lice comb in the morning.
4. Coconut Oil (5)
Many studies suggest that coconut oil can help kill lice. It is also considered more effective than many chemical treatments.
To use coconut oil, apply it well to the hair and scalp and leave it on for a few hours. Then, comb through the hair with a lice comb to remove the dead lice and nits.
5. Neem Oil (6)
Neem is a natural insecticide that can help to kill lice. Therefore, applying neem oil can significantly help reduce hair lice.
To use Neem oil, apply it generously on the hair and scalp and leave it for a few hours. Then, comb through the hair with a lice comb to remove the dead lice and nits.
6. Garlic (7)
Garlic not only kills the lice but also alleviates itching and inflammation on the scalp. Scientific research has also shown that garlic is rich in essential oils with potent antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties, making garlic highly effective in treating and preventing lice infestation.
To use garlic, crush a few cloves and mix it with lime juice. Apply the mixture to the scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes. Then, wash the hair with shampoo and comb it with a lice comb.
7. Amla Powder (8)
Supported by Ayurveda, Amla powder is one of the best herbal remedies to treat head lice. Furthermore, Amla powder is also rich in antioxidants that help boost overall hair health.
To use Amla powder, mix it with water and create a paste. Apply it to the scalp and hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Then rinse it off with warm water.
8. Essential Oils (9)
Essential oils are considered the most effective natural solution for removing head lice. Apart from olive oil, anise, thyme, and sesame oils are also highly beneficial for treating lice.
To use essential oil, mix them with coconut oil and apply the mixture to the hair and scalp. Leave it on for a few hours, and then comb through the hair with a lice comb.
On a Final Note
Head lice infestation can be a nuisance, especially for school-aged children. However, several home remedies can effectively treat and prevent head lice without resorting to chemical treatments.
Wet combing, tea tree oil, olive oil, coconut oil, neem oil, garlic, amla powder, and essential oils are all-natural remedies that can help eliminate lice infestations. By using these simple remedies, you can get rid of lice easily and promote better hair health naturally.
Disclaimer: The information mentioned here is meant for general awareness about Ayurveda, and not meant to substitute any medical guidance. Please consult an Ayurvedic professional for effective remedies.
References:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210909915300692
- https://www.bmj.com/content/321/7270/1187
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22847279/
- https://medicopublication.com/index.php/ijfmt/article/download/14670/13290/28476
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2009.04335.x
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318347702_Can_neem_oil_help_eliminate_lice_Randomised_controlled_trial_with_and_without_louse_combing
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348090555_The_effectiveness_of_garlic_black_turmeric_and_red_betel_vine_solutions_to_maintain_scalp_hygiene_pediculicide_efficacy_test_toward_head_lice
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00436-014-3986-6
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324162820_Home_remedies_for_Pediculus_humanus_capitis_infection_among_schoolchildren
