How to Get Rid of Head Lice

By Aadhaya | May 11, 2018

Head lice are a common occurrence, easily transmitted, and NOT an indication of poor hygiene.

They are a type of parasite that lives on the scalp and hair shaft of humans — surviving for up to 30 days on small amounts of blood obtained from the individual. The official/medical term for head lice is pediculosis. They are usually found in school-aged children (girls more frequently than boys) and women…and like to lay their eggs along the base of the hair shaft — close to the scalp — behind the ears and/or back of the neck.

There are proven, very effective natural remedies for lice that do not use harmful chemicals.

1. Use a fine-toothed nit comb to comb the entire length of wet and lubricated hair

2. Apply essential oils:

There is some evidence that applying natural plants oils to the hair may kill lice and eggs and soothe related itching.[13] Be aware that although essential oils may work against, they are not approved by the Federal Drug Administration to meet safety, efficacy, and manufacturing standards, and may cause damage to your scalp if not used properly

3. Smother lice and nits overnight:

There are several household products that may deprive lice and nits of air.[20] Applying a coat of any of these smothering agents to your hair and leaving it on overnight may treat your lice infestation

4. Rinse hair with a water and vinegar:

After successfully killing lice and nits, combine a mixture of 50% water and 50% vinegar. This can help dissolve the bodies of dead nits and may also help remove any lingering lice or nits in your hair

5. Avoid flammable products:

No matter what natural remedy you choose to treat lice, never use any product that is flammable on your hair. Kerosene and gasoline can cause serious harm to your health and also increase your risk of having your hair catch on fire if exposed to flames

6. Separate personal items:

In general, it’s a good idea to separate personal items as much as possible. This can minimize the risk of lice and nits spreading to others and also prevent re infestation.

7. Try an apple cider vinegar treatment:

This is another cheap, effective way to loosen the nits. Mix 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, and pour it over the person’s hair and scalp. Use the nit comb on the hair; you should find them easier to remove.

8.Try a prescription shampoo:

One option is Pyrethrum, which comes from chrysanthemum flowers that harbor natural insecticides called pyrethrins. Pyrethrins attack lice’s nervous systems, though some lice are now resistant to the toxin