What folk remedy can be used to remove lice? - briefly
A traditional folk method mixes vinegar with olive oil, applies it to the scalp, and removes lice using a fine‑toothed comb. The solution suffocates the insects and facilitates their extraction.
What folk remedy can be used to remove lice? - in detail
A traditional approach for eliminating head‑lice relies on a combination of vinegar, olive oil and fine‑toothed combs. The acidic environment created by the vinegar disrupts the insect’s exoskeleton, while the oil suffocates the parasites and eases combing.
• Apple‑cider vinegar, 2 parts
• Extra‑virgin olive oil, 1 part
• Fine‑toothed nit comb
Mix the vinegar and oil in a clean container until a uniform solution forms. Apply the mixture generously to dry hair, ensuring thorough coverage from scalp to tips. Allow the liquid to remain for 15–20 minutes; the duration permits the acid to act and the oil to coat the lice.
After the waiting period, use the nit comb to remove dead insects and nits. Begin at the scalp, pulling the comb through small sections of hair. Rinse the hair with warm water and repeat the combing process until no further lice are observed. A second treatment 48 hours later addresses any newly hatched nymphs.
Avoid use on broken skin, open wounds or in individuals with known allergy to vinegar or olive oil. Conduct a patch test on a small scalp area before full application. Do not combine with chemical pediculicides, as the mixture may reduce efficacy of both treatments.
Studies on similar acidic‑oil regimens report reduction of infestation by 70–90 % after two applications, with minimal side effects when guidelines are followed. The method remains popular in communities that prefer non‑chemical solutions.