Head lice have proven to be a nightmare since these microscopic parasitic organisms, which feed on the blood from the scalp and infest human hair, can cause insomnia and interfere with daily tasks.
Itchy and irritating, the bug spreads by direct head-to-head contact. Even though they are little, they may be a great nuisance, especially to kids in confined spaces like schools.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that between six and twelve million children in the United States between the ages of three and eleven get lice each year.
What therefore ought to a parent do when their child takes these little hitchhikers home? Here are some remedies suggested by medical authorities to ward against these flying insects.
Olive oil
Some medical professionals and health organizations advise using olive oil as a lice treatment, despite the fact that the CDC lacks solid scientific proof to back this claim.
Every four days, the Wisconsin Barron Area School District advises repeating the olive oil therapy.
According to Dr. Lauren Adler of Northwell Health, lice can be killed and smothered with olive oil. Users should wear a shower cap overnight to suffocate the bugs, as lice may live for hours without oxygen.
Moreover, olive oil helps eliminate lice eggs from hair.
In addition, Dr. Adler advises dissolving the glue that female lice use to lay their eggs with white vinegar. In Indiana, the Gibson County Health Department suggests applying olive oil during the three-week life cycle of lice.
Mayonnaise
Like olive oil, the CDC does not recommend mayonnaise as a certain way to get rid of lice. However, because of its thick composition, Dr. Adler believes that using it can obstruct lice breathing openings.
Apply it overnight, take off the shower cap in the morning, and then do it again a week later.
Dr. Adler suggests substituting with Vaseline or style gel.
Alternative treatments
According to research, cleansers are 96% successful at treating lice.
Dr. Adler advises using the cleanser, combing through the hair after two minutes, then blow-drying the hair until it is totally dry. In a week or two, repeat these steps.
Additionally advised are lice-killing shampoos and benzyl alcohol lotion that is prescribed only, as well as contacting a professional
