Alternative Treatments for Head Lice

Head lice are tiny insects that infest the hair and feed on their host's blood. They are common in children and can be easily spread by direct contact or sharing contaminated items like toys, according to the Mayo Clinic. They can also rapidly infect several children if infected coats and other clothing are stored in communal closets or lockers. There are many drug-based treatments for head lice, but some parents prefer natural alternatives. Fortunately, there are also several nontoxic treatments.

Natural Shampoo

According to the Packard Children's Health Services Pediatric Hotline, you can treat head lice with a homemade natural shampoo. Combine any regular, store-bought shampoo with 3 tbsp. of olive oil, 1 tsp. of tea tree oil and 1 tsp. of eucalyptus or rosemary oil. All of these ingredients can be purchased at grocery and health food stores. Blend the oils into the shampoo and work the mixture into the affected person's hair. Cover the hair with a tight shower cap and leave it on for half an hour. Then, wash the hair thoroughly at least twice to get out all the oil. Dr. Alan Greene says you should repeat the treatment as often as needed until the head lice are completely gone. Its effectiveness has not been scientifically proven, but Dr. Greene says there is anecdotal evidence to support it.

Petroleum Jelly

Dr. Greene says petroleum jelly is a popular alternative treatment for lice. Cover the hair completely with petroleum jelly and the a shower cap, and leave it in place overnight or for eight hours if the treatment is being done during the day. Then, wash the petroleum jelly out of the hair. Supposedly the lice are smothered, eliminating them completely. According to Dr. Greene, washing the hair with dish washing liquid can make it easier to remove all the petroleum jelly.

Mayonnaise

Dr. Greene says that mayonnaise may work in the same way as petroleum jelly, by smothering the lice. You should leave the mayonnaise on for several hours. The National Pediculosis Association says that results are mixed, but there is some evidence that this treatment's effectiveness. However, some researchers believe the lice might be put into a dormant state rather than killed by this and similar treatments. Because of this, comb the hair thoroughly with a nit comb and then brush it to remove any dormant parasites so they cannot revive and cause another infestation.