How to use lavender essential oil for lice? - briefly
Combine 5–10 drops of lavender essential oil with a tablespoon of a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil, apply thoroughly to the scalp and hair, and leave for about 30 minutes before rinsing. Afterwards, use a fine‑toothed lice comb to remove nits and repeat the treatment each day for a week.
How to use lavender essential oil for lice? - in detail
Lavender oil can serve as a natural agent against head lice when applied correctly. The oil must be diluted before contact with the scalp to prevent irritation; a common ratio is five drops of lavender essential oil mixed with one ounce (30 ml) of a carrier such as coconut, olive, or jojoba oil. Shake the blend thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Before treatment, wash the hair with a mild shampoo and towel‑dry until damp. Apply the diluted oil to the scalp, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and other areas where lice congregate. Use a comb with fine teeth to spread the mixture through the hair, then leave it on for at least 30 minutes. After the waiting period, rinse with lukewarm water and follow with a regular shampoo.
Repeat the procedure every 24 hours for three consecutive days. This schedule targets newly hatched nymphs that may have survived the initial application. After the final treatment, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb at least twice a day for one week to remove any remaining insects and eggs.
Safety considerations include performing a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application. Discontinue use if redness, itching, or swelling occurs. Avoid use on infants under three months, pregnant or nursing individuals without professional advice, and on individuals with known sensitivity to lavender.
For enhanced efficacy, combine lavender oil with other lice‑repellent essential oils such as tea tree, neem, or eucalyptus. Use the same dilution ratio, adding a few drops of each additional oil to the carrier. Ensure the total essential‑oil concentration does not exceed ten drops per ounce to maintain skin tolerance.
Store the oil mixture in a dark glass bottle, away from heat and direct sunlight, to preserve potency. Label the container with preparation date and concentration for reference.