The oils of anise and ylang ylang may be effective in naturally clearing infestations of head lice, or pediculosis.
It is estimated that 10 to 12 million children in the United States are infested with head lice every year. The condition, which is easily spread from person to person, making it hard to eliminate, is characterized by an itchy scalp. Allergic reactions to the lice and bacterial infections brought on by excessive scratching can also occur.
Commonly, head lice is treated with lotions and shampoos made from malathion, pyrethrins, permethrins, lindane and other insecticides. Not only do some of these insecticides cause minor rashes and skin irritations in some people, but many are also known to be toxic to the nervous system and the immune system. Repeated use increases their toxicity, and head lice can develop a resistance to the insecticides.
In a study to determine other effective treatments for head lice, a natural spray containing anise, ylang ylang, and coconut oils was compared with a conventional spray containing permethrin and malathion. Researchers treated 119 Israeli school children with head lice with either the natural or conventional spray.
Both treatments were equally effective, and head lice were eliminated in 92 percent of the group. An itchy scalp immediately following treatment was reported by one child in both the natural and conventional treatment groups, though no other side effects were noted.
Anise and ylang ylang contain essential oils, which are generally antibacterial, antifungal, and insecticidal. These oils have long been known to have such effects; one related study found that the essential oil of an African plant, Lippia multiflora, was more effective against head and body lice than the conventional treatment.
Few other studies have examined the use of essential oils for treating head lice, though the positive results studies from thus far could lead to more widespread use of essential oil for treating head lice.
Israel Medical Association Journal October 2002;4(10):790-3
It seems far more prudent to use natural therapies like essential oils for treating head lice, since the traditional medical therapies, such as Kwell and Nix, include toxic chemicals that can wreck havoc with a person’s health.
Putting essential oils on a fine-tooth comb and running it through the infested hair may be the best approach for dealing with this often challenging problem.
Related Articles:
Head Lice Overdiagnosed Combs, Not Lotions, May Be Best for Head Lice Common Products May Not Kill Head Lice
Head Lice Overdiagnosed
Combs, Not Lotions, May Be Best for Head Lice
Common Products May Not Kill Head Lice