7 Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Lice

According to popular beliefs, lice can be eliminated with some home remedies, such as vinegar and coconut oil. Find out more below.

Eliminating lice as soon as possible not only helps to get rid of the plague as such, but also to take care of the health of the hair. Therefore, it is essential to have the right method from the beginning.

Lice that reproduce on the human head ( Pediculus humanus capitis ) are tiny insects that do not exceed 3 millimeters and that cling to the scalp to suck blood. This infestation is known as pediculosis and can affect anyone, especially during childhood.

Their presence is quite uncomfortable since, in addition to multiplying quickly, they also secrete saliva that is irritating to the skin. For this reason, when we see that children scratch their heads too much, there is a high probability that it is due to the presence of these parasites.

Its contagion usually occurs by direct contact between the heads ; In addition, they lay a large number of nits that, in a matter of 8 or 9 days, will have already become more lice.

It is important to act in a timely manner so that they do not have time to invade the head.

Home remedies to eliminate lice

According to popular beliefs, lice can be eliminated with the following home remedies. They are easy to prepare, but should be used with caution, as they can irritate the scalp and facial skin. When applying them, you have to be very careful to avoid getting into your eyes. 

1. White vinegar

White vinegar is believed to contain natural acids that repel lice and make it easier to remove pesky nits from hair.

• Heat some white vinegar to a bearable temperature and apply it all over your scalp and hair.
• In case of burning reaction, rinse head immediately.

• The ideal is to use pure vinegar, but in delicate skin it is convenient to dilute it in a little water.
• Repeat its use every day until all of the lice are eliminated.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has a very pleasant aroma that helps neutralize the smell left by vinegar while reinforcing its effects.

It is believed that thanks to its antibacterial properties it helps to eliminate lice and makes it easier to remove those nits that remain stuck to the hair.

• Rub a little coconut oil all over the scalp, let it act for 15 minutes and proceed to comb with a small bristle comb.

3. Tea tree oil

The antifungal and antimicrobial properties of tea tree essential oil can also be used against these pesky parasites.

• Distribute 15 drops of tea tree oil throughout the scalp and leave it to act, without rinsing.
• Repeat its use every day for best results.

4. Olive oil

This product is said to be a good alternative to remove nits, without damaging the strands. 

• Soak the hair with a little extra virgin olive oil, wrap it with a plastic cap and let it act for an hour.
• After this time, pass the comb and remove as many eggs as possible.

5. A blend of oils

By using a mixture of several essential oils we can reinforce the action of the previous products to prevent the plague from re-infesting the head.

The idea is to combine ingredients with antimicrobial qualities to create a protective barrier on the scalp.

Ingredients

• Extra virgin coconut oil (15 g).
• 5 drops of eucalyptus essential oil.
• 2 drops of tea tree essential oil.

Process

• Combine all the oils in a single container and apply to the edges of the scalp, following the hairline.

6. Rue infusion

Rue has properties that are very beneficial for hair. In addition to promoting their healthy growth, it is a good alternative to eliminate lice.

Ingredients

• Rue (30 g).
• Water (500 ml).

Process

• Bring half a liter of water to a boil and, when it comes to a boil, add the rue.
• Cover it and let it sit for about 20 minutes.
• Pass the product through a strainer and use the liquid to moisten all the hair.
• Cover with a shower cap and let it work for an hour and a half.
• Rinse and use every day to remove lice.

7. Garlic

The sulfur compounds in garlic and its pungent odor are said to be a great repellent against lice.

Ingredients

• 8 cloves of garlic.
• Olive oil (42 g).

Process

• Crush the garlic cloves and mix them with the olive oil until you get a thick paste.
• Apply it all over the scalp and leave it to act for an hour.
• Rinse your hair well, apply conditioner, and style.
• Use it several times a week.

There is no scientific evidence that indicates that the indicated remedies are 100% effective against lice or that they are recommended to eliminate them in all cases. Therefore, it is best to consult with your doctor before using them.