Lice are tiny parasitic insects that can spread quickly and easily, especially when there is a large population of ‘hosts’…people. These lice feed on blood, causing intense itching and irritation. If left untreated, this condition can lead to secondary skin infections and even neurological complications. Head lice are highly resistant to many commonly used pesticides and insecticides. To get rid of these pests for good, you need to use proven head lice treatments.
There are also natural alternatives that are considered effective by countless users. Essential oils are one of the most popular natural remedies for lice infestations because they smell awful to the lice, which makes them extremely anxious about approaching their hosts again in the future. This article explores some of the best essential oils for treating head lice with details on how you can use them safely at home with an effective result as well as whether they are effective at all…
Read on to learn more about what you need to know before implementing any treatment and understand the top 10 essential oils for getting rid of these pests effectively.
What are the best essential oils for head lice treatment?
There are many essential oils that have been proven effective for head lice treatment. These include eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, tea tree, thyme and more. How these essential oils work is dependent on the size of the insect and their sensitivity to different smells. The most effective essential oils for head lice treatment include peppermint, eucalyptus and thyme. The best essential oils for treating head lice with ease include:
Peppermint Oil
This oil has been found to be one of the most effective against head lice by eliminating their sense of smell. It also soothes inflammation and helps prevent secondary skin infections.
Thyme Oil
Thyme is an effective natural option because it also has a strong antiseptic effect which makes it useful in removing the bugs from your hair as well as preventing secondary infections from occurring. It also prevents depression from developing due to itching and pain that you may experience when using other methods of pest control like pesticides or insecticides.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary is one of the most popular essential oils for head lice because it smells incredibly off-putting to these parasites. To use, you simply need to dilute this oil in a carrier oil like olive or jojoba and then apply it to the scalp, covering all areas of hair. The heat from this treatment can help kill the lice and make it easier for the essential oil to penetrate the hair shafts.
Tea Tree Oil
The tea tree oil is an essential oil that has been used for centuries to treat many conditions, including head lice. In fact, it is the most effective treatment for these parasitic insects in the world. Tea tree oil contains a compound called terpinen-4-ol that is considered by many to be a particularly potent insecticide. This chemical disrupts the central nervous system of lice, leading to paralysis and death. The tea tree oil also contains thujone which acts as a neurotoxin and inhibits their ability to reproduce. By consistently attacking these pests on multiple fronts, you’ll see an effectively reduced population of these insects in your home or at work premises.
A new study suggests that repeated topical use of products containing lavender oil and/or tea tree oil may cause prepubertal gynecomastia, a rare condition that results in enlarged breast tissue in boys prior to puberty. Read more here.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is one of the most effective essential oils for treating head lice. It’s a natural remedy that has been used for centuries, and it’s also FDA-approved to treat a number of conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases. Eucalyptus oil is believed to be an ideal treatment because it kills lice as well as their eggs. One study determined that eucalyptus oil kills 100% of lice and their eggs in just one hour. In addition, it was found that only 3% of children treated with eucalyptus oil needed retreatment.
Cinnamon Bark Oil
The cinnamon bark oil is a popular oil used for a variety of purposes, and it is an effective way to get rid of head lice. The essential oil has been used for centuries in both ancient and modern medicine. It is believed that the scent keeps away mosquitos, bugs, and other insects. This means the scent doesn’t just keep your house smelling great; it also helps protect you from potential health problems. When using the cinnamon bark oil, start by washing your hair with shampoo or conditioner. Then, apply 2-3 drops of the cinnamon bark oil to your hair and scalp before going to bed. Wait until morning before checking for any signs of live lice on your head. If no live lice are found after 24 hours, then there aren’t any more living lice on your head.
Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil is one of the most popular natural remedies for head lice. It has a strong and distinct lemony smell, which is what makes lice nervous about approaching their hosts again in the future. This oil is also effective because it can be used as a shampoo for adults and children. To use this oil, you need to dilute it with water or add it to your conditioner after shampooing your hair. Lemongrass oil can also be used in addition to other essential oils like tea tree oil and lavender oil.
Clove Bud Oil
This clove bud oil is composed of eugenol, which is found in cloves that provide a strong, pungent smell to lice. This oil can be applied on the scalp and hair and provide relief from the itching caused by these insects.
Geranium oil
Geranium oil is one of the most effective and popular essential oils for treating head lice. This oil has a strong, natural scent that makes it an excellent choice for getting rid of these parasites. Geranium oil also has a tendency to help with itching and irritation, which is helpful for reducing the discomfort of this condition.
Whilst oils are an option for some people – using NitNOT eco friendly treatments is the best way to go. We offer head lice treatment in the UK using products that are hypo-allergenic and free from toxic chemicals, fragrances and solvents. Our eco-friendly and ethical solution will kill all head lice and eggs without any compromise to your family’s being. Shop now!
