Essential Oils & Lice. Happy Back to School!

Head lice (Pediculosis capitis) are parasites that can be found on the heads of people. Symptoms include intense itching and tickling feeling from movement of hair.

An investigation of Essential Oils (Lavender, Tea Tree and Lemon) on human lice showed that Tea Tree was most effective.

In another study, all of these oils were found to be effective (blended with vinegar and water) in vitro against lice….

Aniseed, Cinnamon leaf, Nutmeg, Peppermint, Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), Red Thyme

According to Jean Valnet, MD, he recommended the following essential oils for lice…

Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Thyme

And in another study, Eucalyptus globulus was found effective against lice.

Other:
In Jane Buckle’s, Clinical Aromatherapy, suffocating agents (carrier oils) such as olive, sunflower or vegetable oil can be effective if used for more than 12 hours.

According to Valerie Ann Worwood, an excellent preventative blend would be equal parts of Rosemary, Lavender, and Lemon. Add 2 drops to the final rinse after shampooing. If lice are present, the following blend should be rubbed well into the scalp and sit overnight: 27 drops each of Rosemary, Geranium and Lavender; add to 1 oz beeswax (melted) and 2 oz of Castor oil.

More Information:
Please consider these guidelines for blending essential oils safely:
http://michaelb291.sg-host.com/essentialoils/howtouseessentialoils.html

Health Effects of Lindane Exposure
http://www.headlice.org/lindane/health/health_effects.htm