How to get rid of nits and lice using folk remedies? - briefly
«Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water, soak the hair for 10 minutes, then use a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove nits. Follow with a rinse of diluted neem oil or tea‑tree oil to eliminate any surviving lice.»
How to get rid of nits and lice using folk remedies? - in detail
Traditional methods for eliminating head‑lice infestations rely on readily available natural substances and systematic application. Effectiveness depends on thorough coverage, repeated treatment, and proper hygiene.
Commonly used ingredients
- Vinegar (apple‑cider or white) – acidic environment loosens the glue that attaches eggs to hair shafts.
- Olive oil or coconut oil – suffocates adult insects and eases combing of nits.
- Neem oil – insecticidal properties disrupt lice respiration.
- Tea‑tree essential oil – broad‑spectrum antimicrobial action, used in low concentrations to avoid skin irritation.
- Salt or baking soda – desiccates lice when mixed with a carrier oil.
Step‑by‑step protocol
- Mix equal parts of vinegar and warm olive oil; add three drops of tea‑tree oil per cup of mixture.
- Apply the solution to damp hair, ensuring complete saturation from scalp to tips.
- Cover the head with a plastic shower cap for 30 minutes to trap heat and enhance penetration.
- Remove the cap, rinse hair with lukewarm water, then use a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract lice and eggs.
- Rinse comb frequently in a bowl of hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
Follow‑up regimen
- Repeat the entire process after 7 days, when any surviving eggs hatch.
- Conduct a second repetition 14 days after the initial treatment to capture any late hatchlings.
- Perform combing sessions every 2–3 days during the two‑week period to verify complete eradication.
Safety considerations
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area before full application; discontinue use if redness, itching, or swelling occurs.
- Avoid use on children under two years of age, pregnant individuals, or persons with known oil allergies.
- Do not combine multiple essential oils without proper dilution, as synergistic irritation may arise.
Preventive measures
- Wash bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) after treatment.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray insects.
- Encourage regular hair inspection, especially after group activities where close contact occurs.
Adhering to the outlined natural regimen, combined with diligent follow‑up and hygiene practices, provides a reliable, chemical‑free solution for eliminating head‑lice and their eggs.