Contrary to popular belief, lice do not hop or fly. Instead, the crawling parasites spread by close contact between humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Over-the-counter medications are available to kill the lice, though these products may be harsh on the scalp and hair, and are not recommended for small children. Home remedies, however, are safe for children and soothing for an itching scalp.
Olive Oil
Though olive oil is conventionally used for culinary purposes, it is also a widely used beauty aid and home remedy for dry skin and hair. As a lice treatment, the oil is smoothed on the scalp and gently massaged into the hair. The oil is thought to smother the lice while also coating each strand of hair with nourishing moisture; it helps ease itching and irritation caused by the insect bites. In addition, olive oil helps detangle long or unruly hair, making it easier to comb nits and lice from the hair shaft. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using combing techniques every 2 to 3 days to decrease the chance of self-reinfestation.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, a natural ingredient in shampoos and other cosmetic products, is derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia and purported to have antiseptic properties, according to MayoClinic.com. As an anti-fungal, the oil may help relieve scalp irritation caused by dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. To remove head lice, infected individuals may apply the product to the hair, then comb through each stand with a nit comb before rinsing. Pure tea tree oil may be unsafe for children, pregnant women and pets and, according to Headlice.org, it is toxic to the liver in high doses.
Petroleum Jelly
As an effective lubricant and all-purpose substance, petroleum jelly is a commonly used ingredient in home remedies for the skin and hair. By coating the scalp and hair, the product is used to smother head lice and smooth tangled strands for simple combing with a lice or nit comb. Due to the fat-content, however, petroleum jelly is difficult to remove from the hair and may become messy.
