Last updated: Apr 27, 2024
10 best herbal teas for lice
Several herbal teas effectively treat lice due to their natural properties.
Consider trying tea tree oil tea, which boasts powerful insecticidal qualities that kill lice and prevent further infestations. Another option is lavender tea, known for its soothing effects and ability to suffocate lice. Lastly, neem tea is a popular choice, as it contains azadirachtin, a compound that repels and inhibits the growth of lice.
Regularly consuming these herbal teas not only promotes overall well-being but also aids in combating lice infestations.
1. Tea Tree
Tea tree oil, the active ingredient in tea tree tea, contains compounds called terpinen-4-ol and 1,8-cineole.
These components possess antiseptic and insecticidal properties. Studies demonstrate that tea tree oil suffocates and kills lice by damaging their respiratory system. Furthermore, it prevents lice eggs from hatching.
As a result, regularly consuming tea tree tea or applying it topically helps eliminate lice infestations effectively and safely.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in tea tree tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain active compounds that effectively kill lice and nymphs, making them a primary choice for medicinal tea.
- Seeds: Rich in essential oils, seeds contribute to the potency of the tea, disrupting the lifecycle of lice and preventing further infestations.
- Buds: High in antimicrobial properties, buds aid in soothing the scalp and eliminating lice-borne bacteria, providing additional relief to the affected area.
- Bark: Contains natural insecticidal properties, efficiently eradicating lice and reducing the risk of reinfestation without the use of harsh chemicals.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree tea that aid with lice.
- Terpinen-4-ol: This compound possesses strong insecticidal properties, killing lice by disrupting their cell membranes.
- γ-Terpinene: This constituent has been shown to have potent lice-killing effects, inhibiting the growth of lice populations.
- α-Terpinene: This compound has insecticidal properties that make it effective in killing lice and their eggs.
- 1,8-Cineole: This constituent has insect-repelling properties, which can help prevent lice infestations.
- α-Terpineol: This compound has insecticidal properties that make it effective in killing lice, and it is also known to have soothing effects on the scalp.
- p-Cymene: This constituent has been shown to have lice-killing effects, disrupting the life cycle of lice populations.
- Limonene: This compound has insecticidal properties that make it effective in killing lice and their eggs, and it also has a pleasant citrus scent.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree tea for lice.
- Boil 2 cups of water and add 3-5 drops of tea tree oil, let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove any impurities, allow it to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil, to dilute the tea tree oil.
- Apply the mixture thoroughly to dry hair and scalp, massaging gently to ensure even distribution.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap for at least 30 minutes before rinsing and shampooing as usual.
2. Lavender
Lavender tea combats lice due to its active ingredients, specifically linalool and linalyl acetate.
These components inhibit the lice's ability to feed and reproduce. Furthermore, lavender tea has fungicidal and insecticidal properties that suffocate and kill lice. Its soothing scent also deters lice from infesting the hair and scalp.
Regular use of lavender tea as a post-wash rinse or leave-in treatment helps prevent and eliminate lice infestations.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lavender tea that help with lice.
- Flowers: Contain active compounds with insecticidal properties, making them effective for treating lice.
- Leaves: Rich in essential oils, specifically linalool and camphor, which have been shown to kill lice and nits.
- Buds: High in antioxidants, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, offering a holistic solution against lice and their potential infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with lice.
- Linalool: A terpene alcohol that has insecticidal properties, contributing to the effectiveness of lavender tea against lice.
- Eucalyptol: A monoterpene that acts as a natural insect repellent, helping to prevent lice infestations.
- Camphor: A terpene ketone that exhibits insecticidal properties, aiding in the management of lice.
- Geraniol: A monoterpene alcohol that functions as an insecticide and repellent, contributing to lavender tea's lice-fighting abilities.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for lice.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1-2 teaspoons of dried culinary lavender, letting it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and steep the lavender for an additional 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove the lavender leaves.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Use a clean cloth or spray bottle to apply the lavender tea to the scalp and hair, leaving it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
3. Neem
Neem tea combats lice effectively due to its inherent active compounds, including azadirachtin and nimbidin.
These components inhibit the lice's ability to feed and reproduce, leading to their eventual demise. Furthermore, neem tea's dense, bitter taste and smell repel lice, offering a natural preventive measure. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties also alleviate itching and skin irritations caused by lice.
Regular consumption of neem tea or topical application on the scalp ensures a lice-free environment, making it an ideal natural remedy.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in neem tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain active compounds that kill lice and eggs.
- Seeds: Rich in fatty acids and nimbolide, which have insecticidal properties.
- Bark: Has azadirachtin, a compound that disrupts the life cycle of lice.
- Flowers: Contain flavonoids with insecticidal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in neem tea that aid with lice.
- Azadirachtin: A potent insecticide that disrupts the life cycle of lice.
- Nimbin: An insecticidal terpenoid that repels and kills lice.
- Salannin: A triterpenoid with insecticidal properties, effective against lice.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that reduces lice reproduction and has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Epicatechin: A flavanol that inhibits lice egg hatching, preventing infestations.
- Nimbolide: A tetranortriterpenoid with insecticidal and anti-parasitic properties.
- Margolonone: A limonoid that inhibits lice growth and development.
- Beta-sitosterol: A plant sterol that soothes the skin and reduces lice-induced inflammation.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that promotes skin healing and repairs lice-related damage.
- Campesterol: A phytosterol that boosts the immune response against lice infestations.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic neem tea for lice.
- Measure - Boil 4 cups of water in a pot, add 2 tablespoons of dried neem leaves, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain - Remove the neem leaves by pouring the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into a teapot or container.
- Cool - Allow the tea to cool down to a warm temperature that won't burn the scalp.
- Apply - Massage the neem tea onto the scalp and through the hair, ensuring all areas are covered.
- Rinse - Rinse the tea out thoroughly after 30 minutes, using regular shampoo to remove any remaining residue.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint tea's core components, specifically menthol and melissa oil, possess natural properties that actively repel lice.
These ingredients disrupt lice's senses, making the environment unfavorable for their survival. By consuming peppermint tea, users introduce these repellent components into their system and surrounding environment. Consequently, lice avoid infested individuals, preventing the spread and growth of lice populations.
Additionally, these natural compounds in the tea do not harm humans, ensuring a safe and effective solution for preventing and managing lice infestations.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain menthol and menthone, which have natural insecticidal properties that can help to kill lice.
- Flowers: Rich in essential oils, which have been shown to have a repellent effect on lice, preventing them from infesting the hair.
- Seeds: Contain high levels of rosmarinic acid, which has been found to have larvicidal and ovicidal effects on lice, helping to break the life cycle.
- Buds: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help to soothe and heal the scalp, reducing irritation and itching.
- Stems: Have astringent properties that can help to reduce oiliness on the scalp, creating an unfavorable environment for lice to thrive.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with lice.
- Menthol: Acts as a natural insecticide, helping to kill lice.
- Menthone: Has insecticidal properties that help to eliminate lice.
- Limonene: Disrupts the lifecycle of lice, preventing them from reproducing.
- Eugenol: Has anti-parasitic properties that help to get rid of lice.
- Pelargonoxide: A natural compound that helps to kill lice and their eggs.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for lice.
- Crush 10 peppermint leaves to release oils, taking approximately 2 minutes.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, adding 2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves.
- Simmer the peppermint-infused water for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Steep 3 peppermint tea bags in the hot water for 15 minutes.
- Strain the tea, discarding solids, and let it cool before using as a lice treatment.
5. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus tea combats lice due to its inherent properties, not due to potential possibilities.
The tea's primary component, eucalyptus oil, holds strong antimicrobial and insecticidal qualities. These attributes stem from certain compounds found in eucalyptus oil, such as cineole and p-cymene. Studies confirm that these components effectively kill lice and their eggs, preventing further infestation.
Furthermore, eucalyptus tea's insecticidal properties remain effective even after moderate heat exposure, ensuring its lice-fighting capability during preparation and consumption.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in eucalyptus tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain compounds that help to kill lice and prevent lice infestations.
- Bark: Rich in tannins and essential oils, which have natural insecticidal properties that discourage lice.
- Buds: Contain high levels of antioxidants and volatile oils, which have been shown to have a repellent effect on lice.
- Flowers: Contain potent essential oils that can help to repel and kill lice, while also soothing irritated skin.
- Seeds: Rich in fatty acids and essential oils, which can help to nourish the scalp and discourage lice infestations.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in eucalyptus tea that aid with lice.
- Cineole: This organic compound possesses strong insecticidal properties, making it highly effective in killing lice and preventing infestations.
- Limonene: With its potent insect-repelling abilities, limonene helps keep lice at bay and protect against future infestations.
- alpha-Pinene: This compound's natural gasic properties make it an effective lice treatment, suffocating and killing the parasites.
- Gamma-Terpinene: With potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, gamma-terpinene helps prevent skin infections caused by lice bites.
- Epiglobulol: This medicinal constituent offers anti-inflammatory effects, providing relief from itching and irritation caused by lice.
- Aristolene: Aristolene's insecticidal properties help eliminate lice and their eggs, providing a comprehensive lice treatment.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eucalyptus tea for lice.
- Gather 10 fresh eucalyptus leaves and rinse them thoroughly under running water.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot, then add the eucalyptus leaves and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove the leaves, leaving only the liquid.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Drink the eucalyptus tea, sipping it slowly and carefully to cover the scalp and hair. Store leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
6. Rosemary
Rosemary tea inhibits lice proliferation due to its natural properties.
The tea's active compounds interfere with the lice's life cycle, preventing eggs from hatching and lice from reproducing. Its potent aroma deters lice, making it an effective preventive measure. Moreover, rosemary tea's antiparasitic and antimicrobial qualities suffocate and kill existing lice.
Regular use of rosemary tea as a hair rinse can eradicate lice infestations while promoting a healthy scalp.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rosemary tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain active compounds that inhibit the growth and reproduction of lice.
- Flowers: Have natural oils and properties that help to eliminate and prevent lice infestations.
- Stems: Provide additional medicinal benefits and enhance the effectiveness of rosemary tea for treating lice.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils used in making concentrated solutions to kill lice and nits.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tea that aid with lice.
- Eucalyptol: This compound has insecticidal properties that help kill lice and prevent infestations.
- Alpha-pinene: This compound has natural pesticide properties that can help get rid of lice.
- Camphor: This compound has insecticidal properties that help kill lice and soothe itchy scalp.
- Cineole: This compound has anti-parasitic properties that help in getting rid of lice.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary tea for lice.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot for 5-7 minutes.
- Add 2-3 fresh rosemary sprigs and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove pot from heat, cover, and let the tea steep for 20 minutes.
- Strain the liquid to remove rosemary leaves.
- Let the rosemary tea cool down to a warm temperature before using it as a rinse.
7. Thyme
Thyme tea fights lice due to its active compounds, namely thymol and carvacrol.
These components demonstrably kill lice and their eggs, according to scientific studies. Thymol, in particular, disrupts the lice's nervous system, leading to their demise. Moreover, the essential oil derived from thyme exhibits potent insecticidal properties.
Regular consumption of thyme tea, therefore, contributes to an individual's defense against lice infestations.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in thyme tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain thymol, a potent compound effective against lice and their eggs.
- Flowers: Rich in essential oils, possess antiparasitic properties that help eradicate lice.
- Stems: Packed with antiseptic and antispasmodic compounds, aid in soothing itchy scalp and eliminating lice.
- Seeds: Contain thymol and other volatile oils, providing lice-repelling and ovicidal properties.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme tea that aid with lice.
- Thymol: Thymol has antiparasitic properties that kill lice and prevent the spread of infestations.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol has insecticidal properties that repel and kill lice, preventing further itching and discomfort.
- Linalool: Linalool has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the scalp and alleviate itching caused by lice bites.
- Terpinen-4-ol: Terpinen-4-ol has antiseptic properties that help prevent skin infections caused by scratching of lice bites.
- α-Pinene: α-Pinene has insect repellent properties that protect against future lice infestations.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme tea for lice.
- Gather 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme and rinse them under cold water.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot, then add the thyme sprigs.
- Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a bowl, then let it cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Use a spoon to apply the thyme tea directly onto the scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
8. Oregano
Oregano tea provides relief from lice due to its potent antiparasitic and antibacterial properties, which directly kill lice and their eggs.
The tea's active compounds, such as carvacrol and thymol, suffocate lice while simultaneously impeding their growth and reproduction. Moreover, oregano tea's anti-inflammatory and soothing effects alleviate itching and irritation on the scalp caused by lice infestations. By drinking oregano tea, individuals can bolster their immune system, making it more challenging for lice to establish a foothold.
Additionally, regularly rinsing hair with oregano tea strengthens hair follicles, making them less susceptible to future lice infestations.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oregano tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain essential oils and compounds that have insecticidal properties, making them effective against lice.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help alleviate scalp irritation caused by lice.
- Seeds: Contain high levels of antioxidants and have been shown to have insecticidal properties, making them useful in lice treatment.
- Stems: Contain bioactive compounds with potential insecticidal effects, contributing to the plant's effectiveness against lice.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregano tea that aid with lice.
- Carvacrol: Possesses antiparasitic properties that kill lice and their eggs.
- Thymol: A natural organic compound with insecticidal properties that eliminates lice.
- Terpinene: A constituent with anti-inflammatory and soothing effects to alleviate itching caused by lice.
- Cymene: A natural monoterpene that acts as a disinfectant, helping to prevent the spread of lice.
- Linalool: Exhibits insecticidal properties that can kill lice and help prevent future infestations.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregano tea for lice.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan for 5-8 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons of fresh oregano leaves or 1 tablespoon of dried oregano to the boiling water.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the oils to extract.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the oregano leaves.
- Let the tea cool to a comfortable temperature before applying it to the scalp and hair for lice treatment.
9. Sage
Sage tea combats lice due to its active compounds, including camphene and camphor, which have natural insecticidal properties.These compounds inhibit the growth and development of lice, preventing them from reproducing and infesting the hair and scalp.Furthermore, sage tea contains astringent tannins that help to soothe itchiness and inflammation caused by lice bites.Regular use of sage tea as a rinse or treatment can eliminate lice and reduce the risk of re-infestation, offering a safe and chemical-free solution for individuals of all ages.
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Sage tea combats lice due to its active compounds, including camphene and camphor, which have natural insecticidal properties.These compounds inhibit the growth and development of lice, preventing them from reproducing and infesting the hair and scalp.Furthermore, sage tea contains astringent tannins that help to soothe itchiness and inflammation caused by lice bites.Regular use of sage tea as a rinse or treatment can eliminate lice and reduce the risk of re-infestation, offering a safe and chemical-free solution for individuals of all ages.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in sage tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain compounds that help to repel and kill lice, making them an effective ingredient in medicinal tea.
- Flowers: Have natural insecticidal properties, making them a valuable addition to a tea aimed at treating lice.
- Seeds: Rich in essential oils that can help to suffocate and kill lice, providing relief from an infestation.
- Bark: Contains anti-parasitic compounds that can help to eliminate lice and prevent further infestations.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tea that aid with lice.
- Camphor: Repels and kills lice with its strong aroma and toxic properties.
- 1,8-Cineole: A terpene that has insecticidal properties, disrupting the life cycle of lice.
- Alpha-Pinene: A compound with insecticidal effects that repel and kill lice.
- Beta-Pinene: A terpene that exhibits insecticidal properties against lice.
- Camphene: A compound that repels and kills lice due to its strong aroma and toxicity.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage tea for lice.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of fresh sage leaves and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid to remove sage debris.
- Allow the sage tea to cool down to a tolerable temperature.
- Use the sage tea as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.
10. Lemongrass
Lemongrass tea combats lice due to its active ingredient, citral.
Citral possesses strong insecticidal properties that eliminate lice and prevent further infestations. This natural substance disrupts the lice's life cycle, inhibiting their ability to lay eggs and reproduce. By consuming lemongrass tea, individuals strengthen their immune system, making it easier for their body to fight off lice and accelerate the healing process.
Simultaneously, applying lemongrass tea topically as a rinse or spray can directly target and eradicate lice infestations.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lemongrass tea that help with lice.
- Leaves: Contain high levels of citral, a compound known to repel lice.
- Rhyzomes: Have antimicrobial and insecticidal properties, making them effective in controlling lice.
- Seeds: Rich in geraniol, a natural lice repellent and insecticide.
- Stems: Contain essential oils that have insecticidal properties, which can help eliminate lice.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass tea that aid with lice.
- Citral: A natural compound that has insecticidal properties, making it effective at killing lice.
- Geraniol: A component that acts as a natural insect repellent, helping to prevent lice infestations.
- Neral: A type of terpene that exhibits toxicity towards lice, aiding in their elimination.
- Citronellal: A plant compound that functions as a lice repellent and has the ability to kill lice on contact.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass tea for lice.
- Crush 3 stalks of lemongrass to release oils, then rinse scalp with 2 cups of boiling water.
- Steep the lemongrass in hot water for 15 minutes, then strain out the solids.
- Allow the lemongrass tea to cool down until it's warm but not hot.
- Pour the lemongrass tea over clean, damp hair, massaging it into the scalp.
- Let the lemongrass tea sit on the hair for 15 minutes before rinsing it out.