Scabies is a skin disease that is caused by a tiny mite. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that scabies, a contagious condition, occurs in people throughout the world, and in all ages and groups of people. Scabies is spread by contact with infected individuals, and sometimes via infected bedding or clothing. Herbal treatments may help treat your scabies, but you should discuss the use of herbs with your physician beforehand.
About Scabies
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the most common symptom associated with scabies is intense itching that is worse at night. Other signs and symptoms of a scabies infestation include rashes, sores or abrasions on your skin from excessive scratching and thin lines on your skin. The mites that cause scabies burrow beneath your skin and lay their eggs. Their burrowing usually resembles a pencil-like mark. In most cases, scabies can be treated without long-term health complications.
Herbal Treatments
Nutrition expert Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," lists numerous herbal remedies that may effectively treat your scabies infestation. Balch states that aloe vera has excellent healing properties, and that aloe vera gel may be applied topically to the involved areas. Other beneficial herbs for this condition include balsam of Peru, goldenseal, tea tree oil, black walnut, garlic, wormwood, comfrey and rhubarb. Some of these herbs are ingested while others are used topically.
An Effective Remedy
Black walnut is an effective herbal remedy in treating parasitic infections, including scabies. Black walnut, notes Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," possesses antiseptic, anti-fungal and vermifuge action, or the ability to rid your body of worms and parasites. Black walnut is used to treat numerous ailments, including scabies, athlete's foot, ringworm, Candida fungal infections, tapeworm, giardia and other parasitic infections.
Disclaimer
If you experience the symptoms of scabies, you should visit your doctor at your earliest possible convenience. Due to excessive scratching, scabies may lead to a secondary skin infection such as impetigo. Although herbs have been used to treat many parasitic infections, including scabies, the use of herbal remedies for your scabies does not guarantee a cure or even a beneficial result. Do not use herbs to treat your ailments until you have discussed all facets of your care with your physician.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Scabies
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Scabies
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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