How can I get rid of lice in children using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply a 10‑minute steam treatment using water mixed with a few drops of «tea tree oil», then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb after each wash. Alternatively, soak the hair for 30 minutes in a diluted solution of «apple cider vinegar» combined with one tablespoon of «honey», then rinse thoroughly.
How can I get rid of lice in children using folk remedies? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in youngsters can be achieved with several time‑tested home treatments. Effectiveness depends on correct application, thorough combing, and repetition over several days.
A primary step is to isolate the child’s hair from other family members for 24 hours. This prevents immediate re‑infestation. Wet the hair with warm water, then apply one of the following preparations:
- « Vinegar solution » – mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, saturate the scalp, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse.
- « Olive‑oil coating » – massage a generous amount into the hair, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb out lice with a fine‑tooth nit comb.
- « Tea‑tree oil blend » – combine 5 drops of pure tea‑tree oil with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil (e.g., coconut), apply to the scalp, leave for 15 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
- « Salt‑water rinse » – dissolve 1 cup of salt in 2 liters of warm water, pour over damp hair, allow to dry naturally; salt desiccates lice and nits.
- « Lemon‑juice spray » – spray freshly squeezed lemon juice on the hair, expose to sunlight for 20 minutes, then wash; acidity disrupts lice exoskeletons.
After each treatment, use a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove live insects and eggs. Begin at the scalp, pulling the comb through each strand, and clean the comb after every pass. Repeat combing daily for at least seven days, as newly hatched nits emerge within that period.
Additional preventive measures include:
- Washing all bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat.
- Vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture to eliminate stray nits.
- Instructing children to avoid sharing combs, brushes, or headgear.
If the infestation persists after two weeks of consistent folk interventions, professional medical treatment should be considered.