Question:
Anyone know a safe and effective herbal treatment or home remedy for head lice?
Answer:
Pyrethrins are six related compounds extracted from dried flowers of the
pyrethrum daisy, Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium. When the ground up flower
itself is used, the product is called a pyrethrum. Most products use
pyrethrins combined with man-made synergists, usually PBO or MGK 264. These
synergistic compounds increase the killing power of pyrethrins. Natural
pyrethrum and pyrethrins are highly irritating to insect nervous systems and
they cause quick "knockdown. " However, many insects are able to break down
the pyrethrins before death occurs and soon recover. The synergists help
stop this break down.
Mammalian Toxicity: Pyrethrins are low in mammalian toxicity, with the oral
LD50 between 1,200 and 1,500. However, cats are highly susceptible to
poisoning from pyrethrins. When ingested, pyrethrins are usually broken down
by stomach acids before absorption can occur. Pyrethrins are general
irritants and repeated contact may cause skin irritation or allergic
reactions. "
"What probably won't work. We've heard of some home remedies that include
cooking oil, mayonnaise, vinegar and other combinations. However, lice can
survive in hair covered with oil even when it is left overnight. Shampooing
with ordinary shampoo won't kill lice; studies have shown that lice can
survive through two consecutive shampooings even when the hair is not rinsed
for an hour after the second shampooing. Lice don't drown easily. Research
has shown that lice can survive when immersed in water for 14 hours at 86-98
degrees Fahrenheit. "
