Neem Oil To Prevent Lice Infestation

Lice--tiny parasitic insects--live on human scalps and feed on blood. Although lice are not dangerous, they do cause extremely itchy bites. They also spread easily, making them inconvenient and annoying. In order to eliminate lice, you need to remove them from the head, as well as from bedding, furniture and personal items. The most common treatment involves using insecticide shampoos, but neem oil, a natural microbial, might also help combat head lice. Before using any type of treatment, even natural ones, consult with your doctor to ensure it is safe and effective for you.

Significance

Neem oil--the pressed oil of whole neem tree nuts--is a traditional ingredient in many South Asian toothpastes, skin-care products, medicines and insect repellents due to its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and antiparasitic properties. Although many practitioners recommend over-the-counter insecticide shampoos containing pyrethrin or permethrin to combat lice infestations, many lice today are resistant to these solutions. "How Lice Are Becoming Extinct," a June 14, 2006 article published on the London Times website, indicates that neem oil might help combat head lice that are resistant to traditional insecticide treatments.

Effectiveness

A 2006 research study published in Parasitology Research found neem seed extract shampoo highly effective against all stages of lice. Head researcher Fathy Abdel-Ghaffar of Cairo University tested neem oil shampoo on 60 children between the ages of 4 and 15. The shampoo killed most head lice within 10 minutes of exposure with no negative side effects such as burning sensations, skin irritation and red spots on the neck and forehead.

Treatment

The Neem Foundation suggests treating head lice by mixing a few drops of neem oil with several drops of a carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil, and leaving the mixture in your hair for an hour. Shampoo and rinse well. Use the treatment once a week for three weeks or for as long as the infestation persists. Discuss your treatment plan with your doctor so that he can offer advice and recommendations tailor-made for your situation.

Prevention/Solution

Neem oil treatments can kill the lice on your head, but to prevent future lice infestations you will need to eradicate lice and their eggs from your personal belongings. Wash bedding, stuffed animals, hats and clothing in hot--130 Fahrenheit or above--soapy water and dry them on high for at least 20 minutes. Seal unwashable items in plastic bags for two weeks. Thoroughly vacuum your floors and furniture.

Warning

Although the Drugs.com database indicates that neem oil is generally safe for adults, it can potentially harm, or even kill, infants and children. Only use the product on children with a doctor's express approval and supervision. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid using neem oil due to a lack of research into its safety and efficacy in these groups.