Many publications list several essential oils suitable for treating head lice. Of these, Veal (1996) used laboratory tests to assess their effectiveness in killing both eggs and live lice. She arrives at the following: Oregano, aniseed and Cinnamon leaf – kills 100% of adults and eggs. Tea tree (Melaleuca) – 83% eggs, 93% adults. Veal also states that the active ingredient in the essential oils used are mostly the phenols, ketones, oxides or aldehydes, so oils high in these chemicals will be the most effective. These would include Bergamot, Spearmint, Roman Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Lemongrass, and Marjoram.
The most effective method of application was using a high concentration of essential oil in alcohol (alcohol makes the insect skins more permeable to the insecticide properties of the essential oil solution).
E.g.: 50 mls alcohol (vodka) to 10 drops essential oil rubbed into the scalp/hair, then left overnight.
The solution can then be washed off with shampoo, after which 2 mls of the original mix is added to a rinse solution of 50 ml vinegar and 50 ml water. The treatment should be repeated after 7 days and fine combing between treatments is essential.
Reminder to self - get a lice comb, add to hygiene preps.
In most of my research, essential oils in a coconut base, rather than alcohol, seems to be the prefered method, perhaps because it's a little gentler for kids. That said, the following essential oils and blends may help to combat these super lice. YMMV.
Oils & Blends: Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Melaleuca, Rosemary, Purify Blend, On Guard Blend
It is important to identify the source and also to treat surrounding areas, clothing, bedding, combs, brushes and other potential locations the lice can be passed on to others. My scalp is starting to itch, just thinking about it.
Treatment Method:
1. Daily treatment of essential oils (10-20 drops of melaleuca, lemon and On Guard in 1 oz carrier oil or alcohol) - leave on for at least 30 minutes and then shampoo out with a natural shampoo with lavender and rosemary added
2. Nit pick with lice comb
3. Wash all beddings and towels in HOT water and vinegar or bleach
4. If the infestation is serious, after the wash, you can do a rinse with;
1 ounce apple cider vinegar
4 drops of Eucalyptus
4 drops of Lavender
4 drops of Melaleuca
8 oz of water
Let this rinse air dry. Be careful of the eyes. The vinegar smell will go away as it dries.
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What to do about the Super Lice
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