There are many different chemical based head lice treatments available, but using natural methods for treating head lice in children is much safer. Head lice are insects that infest a persons hair and scalp and live off of blood, infestations are extremely contagious and, because of the close contact children have with other children, infestations are more common in children then adults. Figuring out which natural cure to use can be overwhelming, so read on for a brief overview of the most popular natural remedies for head lice.
One of the most important steps in removing head lice is using a nit comb in conjunction with the natural remedy. Combing out the lice and nits (lice eggs) is time consuming but very necessary because lice are very difficult to cure. If whichever remedy you choose to use is not used with combing the hair and scalp, and a few live lice and nits are left behind, then the infestation can keep reoccurring. Hair should be combed carefully in sections using a special lice/nit comb, hair should be wet as it is easier to comb through, and the comb should also be wiped off between each pass though the hair.
Many essential oils are known for being extremely effective against lice and combinations of different essential oils are often used. Tea tree oil is by far the most recommended for naturally treating head lice in children. Tea tree oil is very potent and only a few drops of it is needed. Therefor, tea tree oil should be mixed with a base oil, such as coconut oil, so it can be spread throughout the hair more effectively. The mixture should be left on the hair overnight and combed and rinsed out the next day.
Covering the hair with a thick substance to smother the lice is also popular. Some of the products used in this method include petroleum jelly, mayonnaise, baby oil or olive oil, and thick conditioner. Apply the product you choose very thickly to your child's hair and work it in to their scalp. Then cover their hair with a plastic shower cap and leave in place overnight. The next day the substance may be washed out, but it can take several washings to fully remove. Remember, this method has to be followed by manual removal with a nit comb.
Using vinegar to rinse hair is also a popular treatment. Vinegar loosens up the lice eggs and allows them to be removed with a comb more easily. However, vinegar does not kill lice so it should be used along with a remedy to kill lice. Rinse hair with vinegar before and/or your remedy to kill the lice. For maximum effectiveness allow the vinegar to dry on the hair and leave in place over night.
To get the full benefit form your natural method of removing head lice in children, it is important to wash their linen and clothes in hot water and vacuum non-removable cloths such as couches.
About this Author
I am a Registered Nurse who is extremely interested in maintaining well being through a health lifestyle and natural healing methods and products. I discovered tea tree oil by accident and have had great personal success with it, especially when using it for mouth care and acne. I have developed a site packed full of information on tea tree oil, check out this page on tea tree oil and head lice http://teatreeoilusage.com/head-lice-tea-tree-oil.html
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