10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Lice

Herbal decoctions for lice are a natural and effective way to treat infestations of head lice, body lice, and pubic lice.

These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water to release their medicinal properties, which then help to kill or repel the lice. Examples include neem oil decoction, tea tree oil decoction, and chamomile oil decoction.

These herbal remedies can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other methods to effectively eliminate lice infestations, improving overall health and well-being for individuals of all ages.

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The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for lice, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree decoctions helps with lice because of its potent antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties.

The essential oil extracted from tea trees, particularly melaleuca alternifolia, has been shown to effectively kill lice and their eggs, known as nits. When used in a decoction, the oil's active compounds are released into the solution, providing a gentle yet effective treatment for infestations.

Regular use of this herbal tea can help prevent re-infestation by breaking the lice life cycle and promoting a healthy scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia decoctions that help with lice.

• Cineole: Cineole has been shown to exhibit potent insecticidal and antiparasitic properties, effectively killing lice and their eggs by disrupting their nervous system.
• Limonene: Limonene has been found to possess strong antiparasitic and insecticidal properties, helping to repel and kill lice by damaging their exoskeletons and disrupting their metabolism.
• Α-terpineol: α-Terpineol has been shown to exhibit antiparasitic and insecticidal properties, helping to kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and causing cellular damage.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make decoctions for lice.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia are commonly used due to their high concentration of tea tree oil, which is known for its insecticidal and antiparasitic properties.
• Barks: The bark of Melaleuca alternifolia contains compounds that have been traditionally used to treat lice and other parasitic infestations.
• Roots: The roots of Melaleuca alternifolia are also utilized due to their rich content of bioactive compounds, which have been used to develop lice treatments.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for lice.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh leaves of melaleuca alternifolia in early morning or late afternoon.
2. Wash the harvested leaves gently with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the washed leaves with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 10-15 minutes or longer.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with lice because they possess antimicrobial properties that effectively eliminate lice and their eggs.

The astringent and anti-inflammatory compounds present in aloe vera help to soothe itchy scalps and reduce redness caused by infestation. Moreover, the gel-like substance extracted from the leaf of the aloe plant forms a barrier on the scalp that prevents lice from moving around and feeding, ultimately leading to their demise.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries as an effective treatment for lice and other scalp irritations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with lice.

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a anthraquinone derivative, has been shown to exhibit anti-parasitic properties, which can help in eliminating lice by disrupting their life cycle.
• Catechins: Catechins, a type of phenolic compound found in Aloe vera, have been found to have insecticidal properties, which can help in killing lice by interfering with their nervous system.
• Aloin: Aloin, a anthraquinone glycoside, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help in soothing the skin and preventing secondary infections caused by lice infestations.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for lice.

• Leaves: They are used due to the presence of aloe-emodin, a compound that has been shown to be effective in killing lice and their eggs.
• Gel from leaves: They are used due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate the discomfort and itching caused by lice infestations.
• Jelly from leaves: They are used due to the presence of aloin, a compound that has been shown to be effective in killing lice and their eggs.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for lice.

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves and wash them thoroughly with lukewarm water for 5 minutes.
2. Cut the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and remove the outer skin to reveal the gel inside.
3. Use a blender or grinder to break down the aloe vera gel into a smooth consistency for 2 minutes.
4. Mix the aloe vera gel with 1 liter of water and bring the mixture to a boil at 212 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp and sediment.

3. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with lice because of its antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's active compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, target and suffocate the lice, leading to their death. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties soothe the skin irritation caused by the bites and allergic reactions.

By using pot marigold decoctions as a rinse after shampooing or as a topical treatment, individuals can effectively eliminate lice infestations without resorting to chemical-based treatments.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with lice.

• Triterpenoids: They help with lice by exhibiting antiparasitic properties, which can aid in the treatment and removal of lice.
• Flavonoids: They help with lice by displaying anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can soothe and protect the skin from lice bites and irritation.
• Phenolic acids: They help with lice by showing antimicrobial and antiparasitic activities, which can help kill lice and prevent re-infestation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for lice.

• Flowers: They are used due to their antiparasitic and antiseptic properties that help in treating and preventing lice infestations.
• Leaves: They are used because of their ability to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing itching and inflammation caused by lice.
• Seeds: They are used for their antiparasitic properties, which help in killing lice and their eggs, preventing re-infestation.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for lice.

1. Gather 1 ounce of dried calendula flowers in an airtight container to ensure freshness and quality.
2. Combine 1 pint of boiling water with 1 ounce of dried flowers in a heat-resistant glass container.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flowers to release their medicinal properties.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
5. Allow the decoction to cool completely before transferring it to a glass bottle for storage.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with lice because of its potent antiparasitic properties, which effectively kill and repel these pesky insects.

The calming and soothing effects of chamomile also help to reduce itching and discomfort caused by the bites, making it a natural and gentle solution for children and adults alike.

Additionally, the antiseptic properties of chamomile aid in preventing infection and promoting healing of the skin.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with lice.

• Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has been shown to have anti-parasitic properties, which can help in inhibiting the growth and reproduction of lice.
• Chamazulene: Chamazulene, a terpene, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help in soothing the skin irritation caused by lice bites and preventing secondary infections.
• Luteolin: Luteolin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has been reported to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with lice infestations.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for lice.

• Flowers: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that have antiparasitic properties, helping to repel lice.
• Seeds: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have insecticidal properties, making them effective against lice.
• Leaves: They possess antiparasitic compounds that help to eliminate lice and other external parasites from the scalp.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for lice.

1. Gather 2 to 4 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Combine the cleaned flowers with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or until the liquid has cooled slightly to room temperature.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Store the decoction in a cool dark place for up to 24 hours before consumption.

5. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower decoctions helps with lice because of its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's active compounds, such as echinacein and cichoric acid, target the lice's exoskeleton, disrupting their ability to feed and reproduce. Additionally, the soothing properties of the decoction calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation caused by bites, making it an effective natural remedy for eliminating head lice infestations.

Its ability to kill lice and their eggs, combined with its gentle nature, makes purple coneflower decoctions a popular choice among those seeking a non-chemical treatment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with lice.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help deter lice by irritating their nervous system or disrupting their ability to attach to human hair.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds may possess antimicrobial properties that help kill or repel lice, although more research is needed to confirm this effect.
• Alkylamides: These compounds may have anti-inflammatory properties that could help soothe skin irritation caused by lice bites or infestations.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for lice.

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea may be used due to their reported medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that could potentially help in treating lice.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant may be used for their antimicrobial properties, which could help in treating lice infestations by killing the parasites.
• Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea may be used due to their reported anti-inflammatory properties, which could help in reducing the itching and discomfort associated with lice infestations.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for lice.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and roots in late summer or early fall when they are in full bloom.
2. Wash the echinacea purpurea flowers and roots thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the echinacea purpurea flowers and roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Combine 1 cup of chopped echinacea purpurea with 4 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the echinacea purpurea decoction for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half to concentrate the herbal properties.

6. Galium aparine

Cleavers decoctions helps with lice because of its antiparasitic properties, which enable it to target and eliminate these pesky insects from the scalp.

The herbal remedy has been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions, including pediculosis capitis, or head lice infestation.

Cleavers' decoction's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties also soothe irritated scalps and relieve itching caused by lice bites, making it an effective natural treatment for a common problem affecting people of all ages.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galium aparine decoctions that help with lice.

• Saponins: Saponins can help with lice by breaking down the cuticle of the lice exoskeleton, potentially causing the lice to suffocate and die.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids can help with lice by exhibiting insecticidal and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate the discomfort and itching associated with lice infestations.
• Sterols: Sterols can help with lice by interfering with the development and reproduction of lice, ultimately reducing the population of lice on the host.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of cleavers used to make decoctions for lice.

• Stems: Stems are used due to their high content of gallic acid, which is believed to be responsible for their lice-repelling properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are used because they contain a compound that helps in repelling lice and other parasites.
• Roots: Roots are used as they are thought to have antiparasitic properties that can help in eliminating lice.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cleavers for lice.

1. Harvest the galium aparine stems and leaves when they are fresh and in full bloom.
2. Wash the galium aparine with water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the galium aparine into small pieces and weigh out 20-30 grams for decoction.
4. Steep the chopped galium aparine in 500 milliliters of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain and discard the galium aparine solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature.

7. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm decoctions helps with lice because of its natural properties that disrupt the life cycle of these unwanted pests.

The antiparasitic compounds in lemon balm, such as rosmarinic acid and cineole, effectively kill lice eggs, larvae, and adult lice, preventing infestations from recurring.

Additionally, the decoction's soothing and calming effects can reduce itching and discomfort caused by lice bites, making it a gentle yet effective treatment option for both adults and children.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with lice.

• Citral: Helps with lice by exhibiting insecticidal properties, which can help repel or kill lice.
• Rosmarinic acid: Contributes to its effectiveness against lice by possessing antiparasitic and antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth and reproduction of lice.
• Geranial: May help with lice by displaying insect-repelling properties, which can help prevent re-infestation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for lice.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of essential oils that are known to have insecticidal properties against lice.
• Stems: The stems are used as they contain essential oils that can help to repel and kill lice.
• Roots: The roots are used for their antiparasitic properties, which help to eliminate lice and other parasites from the scalp.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for lice.

1. Harvest 5-10 grams of melissa officinalis leaves from the plant in the early morning or late afternoon when they are at their highest potency.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 hours to reduce moisture content.
3. Measure out 1 gram of dried melissa officinalis leaves for every 250 milliliters of water and combine in a pot.
4. Bring the water to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes to release the herbal properties.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.

8. Petroselinum crispum

Parsley decoctions helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal properties, particularly p-coumarin and apigenin.

These compounds have been shown to effectively kill and repel head lice, their eggs, and nits without causing harm to humans. When used in combination with other herbal remedies or shampoos, parsley decoctions can enhance the removal of lice and their eggs, promoting a more effective treatment outcome.

This natural approach can provide relief from the itching, discomfort, and stress caused by infestation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Petroselinum crispum decoctions that help with lice.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that has been shown to have antiparasitic properties, which may help in the treatment of lice infestations by disrupting the parasite's life cycle.
• Carvone: A terpene that has been found to have insecticidal properties, which may help in the control of lice by repelling or killing the parasites.
• Eugenol: A phenolic compound that has been shown to have antiparasitic and antiseptic properties, which may help in the treatment of lice infestations by reducing the parasite's population and preventing infection.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of parsley used to make decoctions for lice.

• Leaves: The leaves of Petroselinum crispum are commonly used due to their antiparasitic properties, which help in repelling and killing lice.
• Seeds: Petroselinum crispum seeds are used for their strong antiparasitic and antifungal properties, which aid in treating lice infestations.
• Roots: The roots of Petroselinum crispum are used due to their ability to repel and kill lice, as well as their antiseptic properties, which help prevent further infection.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic parsley for lice.

1. Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh petroselinum crispum leaves and stems at dawn when the dew is still present.
2. Chop the harvested petroselinum crispum into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Steep 5 grams of chopped petroselinum crispum in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh to remove the solids and obtain a clear liquid.
5. Store the final decoction in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

9. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary decoctions helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal properties that repel and kill these pesky parasites.

The antioxidants present in rosemary, particularly carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, work together to suffocate the lice, preventing them from feeding on human blood. Additionally, rosemary's antiparasitic compounds can help break down the lice's exoskeletons, making it difficult for them to survive.

This natural treatment option can be a safe and effective way to alleviate the discomfort and embarrassment associated with head lice infestations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with lice.

• Carnosic acid: This diterpene acts as a natural insecticide, helping to repel and kill lice.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has been shown to have antiparasitic properties, which can help in treating lice infestations.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been found to exhibit antiparasitic and insecticidal properties, which can be beneficial in treating lice.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for lice.

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly camphor and borneol, which have insecticidal properties.
• Stems: The stems contain compounds like rosmarinic acid and camphor that help in repelling and killing lice.
• Buds: Buds of Rosmarinus officinalis are used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, which are effective against lice and other parasites.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for lice.

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers.
2. Dry the harvested rosmarinus officinalis in a warm place for 1-2 weeks.
3. Grind 10-20 grams of dried rosmarinus officinalis into a fine powder.
4. Combine the powder with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
5. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes and strain before serving.

10. Salvia officinalis

Sage decoctions helps with lice because of its natural antiparasitic properties, which target the lice's nervous system and disrupt their ability to feed.

The decotion's high concentration of volatile oils, such as thujone and camphor, also helps to suffocate the lice and eggs, preventing them from reproducing.

Additionally, sage decoctions can help to soothe and calm irritated scalps and skin, reducing itching and discomfort caused by lice infestations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis decoctions that help with lice.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic diterpene that has been shown to exhibit insecticidal properties, potentially disrupting the life cycle and reducing the population of lice.
• Salvianolic acid: A polyphenol derivative with antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, which may help combat the infection caused by lice and alleviate symptoms associated with it.
• Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid with antiparasitic and insecticidal properties, that may help eliminate lice and their eggs, thereby providing relief from infestation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for lice.

• Leaves: They are used due to their antiparasitic properties, which help to kill lice and soothe the scalp.
• Stems: They are used for their antiseptic and astringent properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection caused by lice.
• Seeds: They are used due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to combat fungal and bacterial infections caused by lice infestations.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for lice.

1. Harvest salvia officinalis leaves and flowers from the garden or store-bought plant in large quantities about 2 ounces.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place for 7 to 10 days at room temperature.
3. Grind the dried salvia officinalis plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for lice?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with lice is a blend of neem, tea tree, and lavender.

Neem helps to repel and kill lice by disrupting their life cycle. Tea tree oil has antiseptic and antiparasitic properties that target and destroy lice.

Lavender oil calms the scalp and reduces itching. A combination of equal parts of these decoctions can be applied to the scalp and left overnight before washing with a mild shampoo.

This natural remedy can help to eliminate lice and their eggs.